Reserve horseback riding session along Lake Michigan shoreline at this state park

MEARS, MI -- When the rumble of Jeeps, four-wheelers and ATVs quiets down the Silver Lake sand dunes become a tranquil spot for horseback riding. Silver Lake State Park offers equestrians a shoreline horseback riding experience along Lake Michigan every fall to fill out their off-season schedule. In December, the dunes open to fat-tire bikers. Registration is open now to book a horseback riding spot Nov. 1-30 at the Silver Lake State Park ORV Area, located at 8960 W. Fox Road in Mears. Equestrians must bring their own horse. It's recommended horses are fit enough for at least a five to 10-mile ride, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Equestrians can bring their horse trailers to the staging area once gates open at 8 a.m. Riding hours continue through 5 p.m. There is no open horseback riding in the ORV and/or pedestrian areas. Also note staff may be working and operating four-wheel drive trucks and tractors in the area during the first two weeks of November. Here's how to register: More on Lake Michigan: Muskegon's new $2.5M beach pavilion on track for early fall opening