What began as a simple notebook and paper maps has turned into so much more! When Paul and I first sat down to plan our 4×4 Shore to Shore route, modern mapping apps were just a glimmer on the horizon. We spent more than 40 hours meticulously researching our off-road route using the gazetteer, multiple county maps, and Google Maps to help bridge any gaps.
Back then, our navigation notes looked a lot like: “Left on Gibson Rd for 3.5 miles. Right on no-name road (check to see if it’s still there)…” and so on.
After six years and over 25 runs, we are finally thrilled with where we’ve landed. Our curated route sees minimal pavement, allowing drivers to completely immerse themselves in nature as they travel past many of the beautiful creeks, rivers, and lakes tucked deep into the Michigan woods.
Crafting the Ultimate Michigan Off-Road Event
We quickly learned that building a great Michigan 4×4 trail riding event takes much more than just drawing a line on a map. Every group has a different preference and cadence when heading down the trail.
Some off-road groups can’t get enough seat time no matter how hard you try. Others prefer to be off the trail, checked into their rooms, and cleaned up well before dinner. Every trip, we have to ask ourselves the logistical questions that make or break a trip:
- When is the perfect time to stop for lunch?
- Does this specific group prefer the comfort of vaulted toilets? (Don’t worry, we know where many of them are! 😉)
- Should we offer an exhilarating night ride?
- Does this group want to ride right up until dinner or do they need time to decompress?
Choose Your Adventure: Comfort vs. Rustic Shore to Shore
Recognizing that not everyone loves to rough it in a tent, we split our excursions into two distinct options: the Comfort Shore to Shore (CS2S) and the Rustic Shore to Shore (RS2S) events.
Both options offer 3 days of incredible trail riding guided by experts who know the terrain inside and out. Both events begin together in Oscoda, Michigan, but after lunch on Day 1, the routes change to match your style:
- The Comfort Shore to Shore (CS2S): This route takes a southwest path after Day 1 lunch. It is designed for those who want great trail time by day but prefer a warm bed and a hot shower at night. This route stops in Houghton Lake and Cadillac before finishing the journey in Ludington.
- The Rustic Shore to Shore (RS2S): This route heads northwest after lunch on the first day, catering to the classic overlander who loves the camaraderie of the campsite. This track stops for camp in Grayling, Fife Lake, and Empire.
Conclusion: Ready to Hit the Michigan Trails?
Whether you are looking to camp under the stars on the Rustic route or unwind in a cozy hotel bed on the Comfort tour, the Shore to Shore event is the ultimate way to experience the hidden beauty of northern Michigan. We’ve spent six years perfecting every mile, every stop, and every turn so that all you have to do is show up, shift into four-wheel drive, and enjoy the ride. Spaces fill up quickly for these curated journeys!
If you’d like to join us in 2027, let us know:
- Do you lean toward the Comfort (hotel) or Rustic (camping) package?
- What type of 4×4 vehicle will you be bringing out?
I can send over the upcoming event dates and registration details to get you locked in as soon as they are available!
2026 Partners:
Spicer Parts, RPM Steering, All Roads Taken, Made On-Demand, Crawler Offroad, Diroff Auto Services, 4 by Fours LLC, Tech Audio LLC
