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St. Helen

ORV CAPTIAL OF MICHIGAN

St. Helen Michigan

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Trails 1000+ Miles to Explore

Trail System & Terrain

Huge Network: Over 50 miles of designated trails in just the St. Helen Motorsport Area, connecting to hundreds of miles of state forest ORV routes.

  • Primary Terrain: Mostly sandy and flat trails, often with deep, loose sand on main routes. 

  • Special Features: The Motorsport Area includes The Rock Scramble (six rock obstacle courses for Jeeps/4x4s) and large Sand Pit/Play Areas with hill climbs.

Access, Town, and Hot Spots

  • Town Access: St. Helen is an ORV-friendly community with trail systems offering direct access to gas, food, and lodging.

  • Neighboring Connections: The trail network connects to areas in Roscommon County (Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake) and Ogemaw County (West Branch), allowing for long rides and scenic destinations.

  • Local Dining

Highway Proximity: Easy travel access just off I-75 (Exit 222).

Highlighted & Suggested Routes

Digital Navigation (Recommended)

  • Polaris Ride Command: Download the free app for reliable GPS navigation and trail data, even without cell service. This app has most verified DNR trails.

  • Michigan DNR Interactive Map: View or download the latest official ORV routes, trails, and scramble areas directly from the source.

    • 🌐 DNR Web Page: Visit the Michigan DNR’s ORV Trail page for interactive maps and GPX files. 

Physical Maps

  • Paper Maps: For an essential backup or quick reference, paper maps are available for purchase for $4 in the shop.

Suggested & Highlighted Routes Programmed in Your Machine

DurationHighlighted Route FocusDescription
Half-Day (3-4 hours)St. Helen Motorsport Area LoopFocus on the core 50+ miles of trails. Be sure to check out The Rock Scramble for 4×4 challenges and the open Sand Pit/Play Area for loose sand fun.
Full-Day (8 hours)Roscommon County ConnectorCombine the St. Helen Route with connecting routes like the Ogemaw Hills ORV Route or follow Trail 6 toward Roscommon/Houghton Lake. This allows for a lunch stop outside of the immediate St. Helen area.

⚠️ Important Safety & Rescue Information

  • Rider Responsibility: If leaving the immediate St. Helen area, riders are responsible for their own route planning and navigation.

  • Emergency Contact/Rescue: Outside of normal business hours (specifically after 11:00 PM), riders are responsible for organizing their own rescue/recovery. Local emergency services should only be contacted for life-threatening emergencies.

  • Ride Within Limits: Always adhere to posted signage, vehicle width restrictions (50″ Trail or 72″ Route).

  • View our FALL RIDING HOURS FOR UPDATED RIDE TIMES
Local Ordinances & Laws

Roscommon County Road Operation (Street Riding)

  • Permitted: ORVs are generally allowed on the far right of the maintained portion of a road or street unless the road is posted as closed by the township.

  • Speed Limit: No more than 25 MPH or a lower posted ORV speed limit.

  • Prohibited Roads: NOT permitted on State or Federal Highways (e.g., I-75, US-127, M-55, M-18).

  • Time: VISIT OUR FALL/WINTER HOURS FOR CLEAR TIME SLOTS FOR LEGAL RIDING.

  • Safety Gear: Operator and passengers must wear a DOT-approved crash helmet and protective eyewear

Designated Trail Operation

  • Trail Widths:

    • ORV Routes: Open to all ORVs up to 72 inches wide. (BROWN, RED, DOTTED BROWN ON RIDE COMMAND)

    • ORV Trails: Limited to vehicles 50 inches or less in width. (GREEN ON RIDE COMMAND)

🗺️ ORV Law Disclaimer

  • Outside Counties: If traveling outside of Roscommon County (e.g., into Ogemaw, Crawford, or Clare), riders are responsible for knowing and following the local ORV ordinances and rules of those specific counties and townships.

  • Where to Ride Legally: For maps and current regulations on all designated trails and routes in Michigan, please visit the Michigan DNR’s ORV Riding page.

Trail Etiquette

General ORV Trail Etiquette & Safety

  • Two-Way Traffic: Michigan State Land trails are two-way traffic; stay right as much as possible.

  • Yield to Others: ORVs and all other motorized users must yield the right-of-way to hikers, bicyclists, and especially equestrians (horses).

    • When encountering horses, stop your engine, pull to the side (preferably the downhill side).

  • Passing: No passing unless front vehicle pulls over and waves through under any circumstances. Trail or roads.

  • Be Predictable: Use hand signals to indicate number of riders behind you. Last vehicle holds a solid fist indicating 0 riders. 

  • Stop Safely: Do not stop in the middle of trails, on hills, around blind corners, or at intersections. Pull completely off the trail to take a break.

  • Stay on Designated Trails: Do not ride off-trail or around obstacles (like mud holes or downed trees); this widens the trail and increases erosion. Ride over obstacles, not around them.

  • Tread Lightly (Pack it Out): Carry out what you carry in! Leave no trash or litter behind.

  • Noise and Dust: Keep speeds low around other recreationists to minimize dust and noise.

St. Helen & Northern Michigan Specifics

  • Alcohol Prohibited: Alcohol is strictly prohibited in all ORV rentals and operating under the influence is illegal on all trails and roads. Results in loss of funds and confiscation of machine.

  • Shared Trails: Remember trails are shared with ORVs, wildlife, hikers, vehicles, dirt bikes/quads, and equestrian teams.

  • Be friendly, courteous and safe! 
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Premium POLARIS Models

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Know Before You Go

☀️ Summer Riding

⚠️Summer ORV Rental Riding

To ensure a safe and legal Summer experience and prevent conflicts with groomed trails, all rental units are subject to the following restrictions:

Designated Riding Areas Only:

    • Operation is strictly limited ORV Routes (county roads open to ORV use by local ordinance). 

    • Quad & Dirt bike trails (50 in. or less) are off limits and are subjected to rental fines and against DNR regulations. 

Violation Risk: Failure to abide by Roscommon county and surrounding county ordinances is 100% on the rider. Please view all Michigan’s laws and thoroughly read the waiver before arriving. Read Laws Here. 

Navigating Designated Trails:

Bodies of Water:

    • Operation in public waters (like lakes or wetlands) is NOT ALLOWED in rental units. 

Daily Ride Essentials

  • Safety Gear: DOT-approved Helmet (provided if needed for free) & Protective Eyewear (not provided)

  • Cash/Card: fuel, donation to feed deer, lunch stops & shopping opportunities.

  • Emergency: Fully charged Cell Phone, chargers. 

  • Personal: Water/Hydration, Snacks, Layers of clothing (weather & machine dependent).

  • Change of clothes for after ride.
  • Cooler

Multi Day & Night Rides 

  • Daily Items: All items above.

  • Headlamps

  • Straps 

🚨 Rescue Policy & Restrictions

  • Rescue Restriction Start: 11:00 PM

  • After 11:00 PM: We cannot guarantee immediate rescue service until the following morning.

  • Safety Restriction: ORVs should NOT be operated past dark without a plan.

  • Cost: Towing/Rescue service initiated outside of business hours or after the 11:00 PM restriction may incur an additional fees.

✅Included with Rental (No extra charge)

  • Safety Orientation & Guidance: A required safety briefing and operation training before your ride.

  • Navigation: Touchscreen GPS with Pre-Planned Routes for popular trail systems.

  • Mandatory Safety Gear: DOT-approved Helmets (Required).

Optional Rental Equipment (Available for a Fee)

  • Coolers: Xpedtions only.

  • Bungees: Provided with Cooler/Equipment rentals to safely secure items.

  • Speakers: Bluetooth speaker units available for rent (great for group rides). 4 Seat Open Cabs DO NOT have built in speakers.

  • Safety Beacon: Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) available to rent for enhanced off-grid safety.

ℹ️ Important Notes

  • Securing Gear: Customers are responsible for properly securing all personal and rental equipment, including coolers, using the provided or personal bungees.

  • RZR RIPN’ RETNALS is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items while riding or in shop. 

Trail Conditions:

  • Dry & Loose Terrain: Trails and seasonal roads may be sandy, dusty, or hard-packed. In certain areas, you may encounter deep “sugar sand” or loose gravel that requires steady momentum.

  • Grooming: Is done on a bi-weekly, VOLUNTEER basis. RZR RIPN’ RENTALS is not responsible for trail conditions. Watch for grooming updates here.

  • Dust & Visibility: Lead vehicles will often kick up “dust clouds,” requiring you to maintain a safe following distance to ensure clear visibility of the trail and oncoming riders.

Safety & Logistics:

  • Higher Temperatures: Create a plan to stop and swim or make sure you are dress appropriately for summer weather. 

  • Increased Trail Traffic: Summer is the peak season; you must be hyper-aware of your surroundings to account for more frequent two-way traffic, including dirt bikes, ATVs, and hikers/horses. Always stay to the right on blind curves.

Please review these rules carefully to ensure a safe and legal trip.

Roscommon & Ogemaw County ORV Ordinances

  • Road Access: ORVs may be operated on the far right-hand side of the maintained portion (shoulder) of most county roads.

  • Speed Limits: The maximum speed for ORVs on county roads is 25 mph, unless a lower speed is posted.

  • Flow of Traffic: You must travel with the flow of traffic and ride in single file only.

  • Prohibited Roads: Riding is strictly prohibited on state highways (such as M-18, M-55, and M-76) and federal highways (I-75), except for designated crossing points at right angles.

  • Equipment Requirements: All units must be equipped with at least one lighted headlight and one lighted taillight visible from 500 feet.

  • Licensing: All vehicles must display a valid Michigan DNR ORV license and trail permit sticker.

  • Age Restrictions: 21 to rent, 18 to drive. 25+ to drive with minors (17 and under). (RENTAL POLICY)

  • Environmental Protection: It is illegal to ride in ditches, on road back-slopes, or in any manner that creates erosive conditions or damages vegetation.

Important Notice: These guidelines apply specifically to Roscommon and Ogemaw Counties. Any planned routes or excursions outside of these counties are the sole responsibility of the rider. You are required to research and adhere to the specific ordinances of any other jurisdictions you enter. RZR RIPN’ Rentals is not responsible for tickets, legal consequences, or any other liabilities resulting from a failure to follow local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I haul a machine?

🚫 No Customer Hauling Policy

Customers cannot transport the machines under any circumstances. Only our insured outfitter is authorized to deliver the machines to your designated site. This is a Zero Tolerance Policy: if a machine is found loaded onto a customer’s trailer or vehicle, you will automatically lose your full security deposit and incur all recovery fees.

Deliveries are not available this season. We apologize.

Can we stay in town overnight with our machine?

Yes, you do not need to return the machine daily. Just ensure your place of stay allows orvs/rental units. 

  • Airbnbs: Several options allow rental ORVs (check policies).
  • Campgrounds: Local spots with easy trail access, like Richfield Township Park and Deer Run Campground.
  • Cabins: Stay at Trail’s End Cabins & Motel or St. Helen Lake Resort Cabins.

Staying outside of St. Helen? You’re responsible for your route! Delivery is not available this year.  View our list of places to stay in the St. Helen area.

Mandatory Insurance & Security Deposit

$60 Mandatory AdventureAssure Insurance:

  • Covers damages after the first $1,500. 
  • Find already selected in checkout. If not selected it will be applied and charged day of rental.

$1,500 Hold is Due Day of Rental: 100% Refundable within 3–14 days if no damages.

Belt & Tire Coverage:

  • Avoid potential out-of-pocket costs of $200–$400 for belt or tire damage.
  • Select in checkout. Not available over the phone or on the day of rental.
  • Not required but highly suggested. 

Rider Requirements

Licenses: A valid Driver’s License is required for every rider and must be presented on-site. No license, no ride, no refund.

Height: No car seats or boosters; must be 50+ inches tall.

Rental Requirements:
  • Renters must be 21 years or older for security hold with license. 
  • Drivers aged 18+ may drive if accompanied by a 25+ security holder.
  • $1,500-$3,000 (chosen insurance depending) security hold on a valid credit/debit card. Ride rates can be paid in cash, holds cannot.
Weather & Cancellations

Same-day or day-before bookings: No refunds or discounts. Made a mistake? Call and leave a voicemail ASAP.

  • 48+ hrs notice: Full refund.

  • 24–47 hrs notice: 50% refund.

  • Less than 24 hrs or no-show: No refund.

  • Rebooking: Must be 24+ hrs ahead; no refunds once rebooked.

🌧️ Sensible Weather Protection

This is an optional add-on that must be selected during online booking.

  • Cost & Selection: Choose this option during online checkout. It is not available over the phone or on the day of your rental.

  • Coverage: If it rains anytime during your ride, the Sensible Weather company will reimburse you for the hours it rained. (SNOW IS NOT COVERED.)

  • Important Note: This coverage is for rain only. Snow does not count for reimbursement.

Fuel

⛽ Refueling Rules

1. Return Full/% is left at.

2. Use Premium 93 Octane.

3. Show Receipt.

  • GAS CANS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN OUR MACHINES – THIS WILL RESULT IN A FIRE + FULL LOSS OF HOLD IF SEEN IN MACHINE AT ALL. 

4. 3x times town gas price if not returned full. 

Safety

Safety Gear:

  • Helmets and seatbelts are mandatory for all riders.
  • Additional charges will be applied for any riders not wearing proper safety gear that is provided free of charge.

Zero Tolerance for Impairment:

    • Strictly no drinking and driving.
    • Waivers: Unauthorized riders will forfeit funds.
    • No Gas Cans: Leave them at home.
    • Stick to ORV Trails: Quad, dirt bike, and (while in season) snowmobile trails are off-limits during winter season – seasonal roads and orv routes only. Check our fall/winter hours for more details.
Machines

Machines

Get ready to ride with confidence in our well-equipped fleet:

  • Touchscreen GPS: Every machine has built-in navigation with highlighted St. Helen routes and local hotspots.

  • Your Choice of Ride: Pick from three different models to fit your group and preferred style of terrain.

  • Open or Closed Cab: Choose an Open Cab for maximum fresh air or grab our hot commodity Closed Cab for all-weather comfort and protection.