FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ORVs allowed in the forest?

Except for a few miles of the MCCCT (Michigan Cross Country Cycle Trail), there are no designated ORV trails in the PRC. There are ORV trails east of M-33. ORVs are not allowed on Otsego or Montmorency county roads in the PRC. ORVs are allowed on the shoulder of Otsego and Montmorency county roads outside of the PRC and on the shoulder of all Cheboygan and Presque Isle county roads. Contact the appropriate county road commission for details/updates.

Are Recreational Passports needed in the forest?

The passport is required for vehicles entering all state forest campgrounds and state parks. It’s also required for parking at the trail heads of all pathways on this map except Green Timbers. Get an annual passport with your Michigan license plate or at any DNR office, or online at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. Additional fees are levied at campgrounds for overnight camping. The Recreation Passport contributes to upkeep of pathways and campgrounds in state forests as well as state parks.

Is snowmobiling allowed in the forest?

In the PRC, snowmobiles may be operated only on roads open to vehicular traffic. On state forest land outside of the PRC, snowmobiles are not restricted except they are not allowed on any hiking pathway.

Is there cell signal in the forest?

Cell phone communication is limited. Portable ham radio devices can be tuned to frequencies and locations found online HERE. Newer Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) devices in vehicles can usually identify named roads in the forest.

What are the Pathway Users Code of Ethics?
  • Respect the solitude of others. Let nature’s sounds prevail. Travel in small groups. Do not engage in activities or create situations that disturb others.
  • For safety, travel with a friend. Always leave your itinerary with someone.
  • Carry a map and compass in addition to GPS.
  • Drinking water and toilets are available at the campgrounds. Do not drink from streams or springs without first purifying. When toileting outside of a campground, dig a hole no more than 6 – 8 inches deep to stay within the “biological disposer” layer of the soil, and cover after use.
  • Extinguish all fires carefully.
  • Pack out all litter.
  • Plan for variable weather.
  • Carry insect repellent in warm months.
  • Keep pets under control at all times.
  • Do not use soap in rivers or lakes and dispose of gray water at least 100 feet from surface water.
  • Camp at least 100 feet from water.