On September 26–27, 2025, Silver Bay welcomed riders and outdoor enthusiasts from across the state for the annual ATV MN Ride & Rally, Minnesota’s statewide convention and gathering for the ATV community.
Northeastern Minnesota offered the perfect backdrop for the event, with hundreds of miles of trails winding through brilliant fall colors. Riders had the chance to explore the North Shore, Sawtooth Mountains, and nearby state and national forests, experiencing firsthand the natural beauty that makes this region a destination for trail enthusiasts.
I joined fellow legislators— including Rep. Roger Skraba and Senator Grant Hauschild— alongside elected officials from both sides of the aisle to take part in the ride. The event provided a unique opportunity for lawmakers less familiar with ATVing to experience the trails directly and to better understand the importance of maintaining, expanding, and investing in trail development statewide.
Economic Impact
The significance of Minnesota’s trail systems extends well beyond recreation. In St. Louis, Lake, and Koochiching counties alone, the ATV industry contributed an estimated $34 million in economic impact in a single year. That impact ripples across local communities—benefiting hotels, motels, Airbnb’s, restaurants, gas stations, and small businesses that rely on visitors coming north to ride.
Bipartisan Support for Trails
The Ride & Rally also highlighted the bipartisan commitment to supporting Minnesota’s trail systems. “Our trail systems allow us all to interact with nature doing what we love—whether that’s hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, biking, walking, or ATVing.”
I love using our trail systems to enjoy all the above, and this past weekend was perfect weather to haul my ATV up the North Shore to celebrate the season.
I extend my gratitude to Silver Bay for hosting a successful event that showcased the very best of Northern Minnesota: outdoor adventure, small-town hospitality, and a community that thrives on its connection to the land.
With appreciation,
Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar
State Representative
