moderate
2–6 hours
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle vehicle operation and rough terrain.
Get behind the wheel of versatile Polaris off-road vehicles at Best Bear Lodge in Irons, Michigan. This lodge and campground offers access to varied trails through forest and dunes—perfect for riders seeking multi-seat or solo adventure in the heart of Michigan’s wilderness.
Located in Irons, Michigan, Best Bear Lodge and Campground offers an immersive way to tackle Michigan’s diverse terrain through their Polaris-powered off-road vehicle rentals. The business stands out by providing access to a fleet ranging from nimble two-seat Polaris RZR XPs to robust six-seater Polaris Ranger North Star Editions, allowing adventurers of varying group sizes to take on the region’s forest roads, sandy dunes, and rugged trails with confidence.
Irons sits close to Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline, surrounded by dense hardwood forests, rolling sand hills, and scattered inland lakes that form a natural playground for off-road enthusiasts. The area is part of a lesser-known but rapidly growing network of trails that cut across state forest land, offering both fast stretches and technical sections among towering white pines and birch groves. This combination makes Best Bear Lodge an ideal anchor point for thrill-seekers looking to escape crowded state parks while experiencing the unique wilderness of western Michigan.
What makes Best Bear Lodge and Campground especially valuable is its range of Polaris machines tailored to varying adventure styles, from solo rides on the Slingshot or two-seat RZRs to group outings with larger four- and six-seat vehicles. This flexibility means riders can tailor their trips to their skill level and party size, whether carving single tracks or rolling over wider gravel paths.
In addition to vehicle rentals, the lodge serves as a practical base with camping options that complement multi-day excursions, letting riders recharge amidst the serene northern Michigan wilds. The nearby Manistee National Forest and Little Manistee River add opportunities for fishing, hiking, or simply soaking in the quiet forested landscape.
For anyone looking to break from the beaten path and tackle some of Michigan’s underappreciated off-road terrain, Best Bear Lodge and Campground pairs rugged vehicles with a welcoming local setting. It bridges the gap between wilderness and comfort, making it a standout destination for off-road adventures in western Michigan’s outdoors.
Choose a Polaris model that fits your group size and skill level for the safest, most enjoyable ride.
Fuel stops are limited near Irons; pack extra gas to avoid getting stranded on remote trails.
Keep a safe distance from deer and smaller animals often spotted along trails, especially at dawn or dusk.
Sandy trails and variable weather make goggles and layered clothing essential gear for comfort and safety.
Irons and the surrounding Manistee National Forest have a heritage tied to logging and Native American hunting grounds dating back centuries.
Best Bear Lodge emphasizes responsible trail use and encourages leave-no-trace principles to protect fragile forest ecosystems.
Protects your head during off-road rides where terrain can be unpredictable.
Shields eyes from dust, debris, and low-hanging branches.
Allows adjustment to variable weather and keeps you warm or cool as needed.
spring|fall|winter specific
Offers proper foot support and protection when operating off-road vehicles or walking uneven terrain.