The Cook County ATV Club would like to comment on the News- Herald’s June 25 “Law Enforcement briefs.” On Friday, June 17, the law enforcement center received a call reporting “a line of six ATVs going up the Gunflint Trail near Devil Track Road.”
The Cook County ATV Club would like to let this caller—and other motorists—know that there was no reason to report this group to law enforcement. It was perfectly legal for them to be riding there. Under the Cook County ATV Road Ordinance, ATVs are allowed on that section of the Gunflint Trail.
Under the county ordinance, all county roads are open to Class 1 ATVs except parts of the Gunflint Trail. The Gunflint Trail is open to Class 1 ATVs from downtown Grand Marais to County Road 60 (by Hedstrom Lumber). Class 1 ATVs are also allowed to travel on two other short sections, from Pine Mountain Road to South Brule Road and from Lima Grade Road to County Road 92.
Class 1 ATVs are the four-wheelers with handlebars. The other type of ATV, commonly known as a “side-by-side,” with seats and a steering wheel, is a Class 2 ATV. Under Minnesota State Law Class 2 ATVs are allowed on all county roads, including the entire Gunflint Trail.
The Cook County ATV Club would like to also remind ATVers of their responsibilities under the ordinance. Unless preparing to make a left turn, ATVs must travel on the shoulder or far right side of the driving lane. ATVs traveling on county roads must be equipped with a rear-view mirror. It’s not just required under the ordinance; it’s an important safety tool.
Youth operators must have obtained their Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) safety certification and drivers and passengers under 18 years of age must wear a helmet.
Everyone is reminded to slow down and watch for other traffic as well as wildlife. Let’s all share the road and be safe!
Mickey Brazell, president
Cook County ATV Club
Leave a Reply