moderate
2–4 hours
Basic fitness recommended for handling vehicles over shifting sand and occasional boarding
From dune-ripping UTVs to nimble Jeep E-Bikes and sandboards, Silverlake Adventures in Mears offers raw, exhilarating ways to experience Michigan’s shifting silver dunes.
Located along Michigan’s western shoreline, Mears is a gateway to the towering sand dunes of Silver Lake State Park, a sprawling playground of glistening white dunes sculpted by wind and water over generations. Silverlake Adventures taps into this raw landscape offering rugged 4-seater and 2-seater UTV rentals, Jeep E-Bikes, and sandboards, providing a hands-on way to navigate some of the most dynamic terrain in the Midwest. The towering dunes are not only a geological marvel of shifting quartz sand but serve as a magnet for outdoor thrill-seekers looking to power through steep climbs and wind-swept ridges.
Silverlake Adventures stands out in the region by delivering accessible vehicle rentals that range from high-powered side-by-sides ideal for group outings to nimble Jeep E-Bikes that let riders weave through sandy trails and forested sections. Sandboards add a playful option for sliding down the dunes on foot, inviting an active, adrenaline-fueled afternoon in nature. Unlike many outdoor outfitters that focus solely on hiking or water sport, Silverlake Adventures merges motorized adventure with the unique dune environment.
This area also carries a rich cultural history tied to the Great Lakes logging era and native Ojibwa tribes, making each trip a chance to witness landscapes shaped by both nature and human stories. The shifting dunes constantly reshape the experience, requiring drivers and riders to adapt quickly to ever-changing trails. Silverlake Adventures’ gear and local knowledge enhance safety while supporting responsible recreation in this fragile ecosystem.
Whether it’s a family ride through the dunes, a solo e-bike trek on winding paths, or an afternoon of sandboarding on steep slopes, Silverlake Adventures provides unmatched access to a rugged corner of Michigan with endless opportunity for active play and discovery just beyond the lakeshore.
Windblown sand is common on dunes; goggles or sunglasses protect your eyes during UTV rides or sandboarding.
Before heading out, ensure your UTV or e-bike is fully charged and mechanically sound for dune terrain.
Sandy terrain and sun exposure can quickly dehydrate; bring plenty of water for rides and breaks.
Stick to marked routes to protect fragile dune ecosystems and avoid getting stuck in soft sand.
This region’s dunes formed over thousands of years as retreating glaciers left sand deposits, with a logging boom in the 19th century driving early settlement.
Efforts are made to limit vehicle impact on shifting dunes, promoting designated trails and responsible rental use to protect this sensitive ecosystem.
Shields eyes from blowing sand and bright sun while riding or boarding.
summer specific
Protect your feet from hot sand and vehicle foot wells.
Adjust to rapidly changing temperatures on the dunes.
spring|fall specific
Carry water hands-free to stay hydrated during active dune time.
summer specific