🗽Tartlets, Torque & Trail Maps

Despite the pumpkin spice vibes outside, the first week of summer has arrived! We hope you’re able to get outside, try something new, and celebrate your freedom. And, that you remember to pack your sweater.

Cheers!
-Joe & Haley

Your Weekend Forecast

Kickoff to Summer at the State Fair

5/22 - 5/25

The fairgrounds shake off spring with a laid-back preview of the Great Minnesota Get-Together—same vibes, way fewer people. Nearly 40 food vendors (yes, deep-fried ranch is back), local brews, tribute bands, hometown favorites, and a quirky puzzle hunt that leads you through some unexpected corners of the grounds.

There’s a spin-to-win game with real fair prizes, plus yard games, history tours, the (sold-out) Milk Run 5K, and even free parking. If you're the type who skips the loud, over-the-top relative at family holidays and heads out back to hang with the easygoing cousins, then the Kickoff is where you need to be this weekend.

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Confession: I’ve never actually been on a proper ATV or UTV trip. Between the kids, business, and the general busyness of life, it’s always been one of those things I’ve meant to do but haven’t quite made happen. Well, consider this my way of officially “pinning it to the bucket list.”

For this week’s Up Yonder, I tapped some of my favorite clients who are seasoned off-roaders to share their best tips, tricks, and trails for UTVing around Minnesota. Whether you’re a total newbie like me or just looking for new spots to explore, I hope this inspires you to grab a helmet, hit the trails, and see what the adventure’s all about.

MN 101: UTVing

🚗Step 1: Get a UTV

Several outfitters around the state offer UTV/ATV rentals, and some even provide guided tours. Most rental companies are located near trail systems, so you typically won’t need to trailer the machine to a trailhead. That said, most small SUVs and trucks can handle the job if needed.

UTVs come in 2-, 4-, or 6-seat options, with discounts often available for weekday rentals. A full-day weekend rental for a 4-seater will run you ~$400.

Out Top Picks for UTV/ATV Rentals in Minnesota:

• Lossing’s Powersports Ely, MN

• Jack Pines Resort & Rentals  Park Rapids, MN

• Power Lodge Rentals  Outing, MN

🌲Step 2: Where to Ride

Easy button: Pick a rental company from the list above and ride the nearby trail systems. Expert mode: If you’ve got access to a UTV and are willing to trailer it, here are a few favorite spots around the state worth checking out:

• North Shores Trails Silver Bay, MN – Silver Bay is ground zero for the North Shore’s countless miles of trails and has plenty of options for gas, lodging, and food. Our client’s top pick: Little Grand Canyon Overlook.

• Spider Lake Trails Motley, MN – A fan favorite for UTV newbies. It offers a nice mix of forest paths and open riding areas—and it’s super scenic.

• Iron Range OHV State Rec Area Gilbert, MN – Like a theme park for UTVs. Tons of trails, obstacles, and even a designated beginner zone.

• Off-Road Triangle  Park Rapids, MN – Where three state forests converge. It's centered around the city of Park Rapids—perfect for quick access to a greasy burger at the end of the day.

🧠Step 3: What to Know

• Dress right – Dry trails mean dust, wet trails mean mud. Both require helmets and sunglasses/eye protection.

• Know the laws – Brush up on the state and local rules for licensing, permits and helmets before heading out.

• Stay on the trails – Stick to the trails, and remember—most are two-way, so keep an eye out for oncoming traffic. Download trail map apps for offline use before you head out, just in case you lose service.

• Pack the essentials – Snacks, water, sunscreen, first aid kit, extra tank of gas.

🏕️Now, go for it.

We’d love to hear about your adventures—reply back and let us know how it went! Who knows, maybe we’ll feature your photos in an upcoming Hotdish. ☺️

Until next week—happy trails!

–Joe

• Studebacher Car Show

• Beaches & Bonfires, Plymouth

PS: If your 2025 plans include buying or selling a home around the Twin Cites… 🙋‍♂️😃