Building Machines and Memories

The first time I had ever been out on Silver Lake Sand Dunes was when I was eight months old. My parents would bring me in their own vehicle on the off-road vehicle (ORV) portion of the dunes. My Mac Woods Dune Ride was so different than my other sand dunes experience because I got to know more about the history of the dunes along the ride and it is such a smoother ride due to the groomed trails.

I really wanted to find out more about Mac Woods, especially how they make the buggies and the history of the business. I found out that the workers at Mac Woods actually cut the truck up and weld everything together to make a buggy. When Mac first started his business almost 90 years ago, wide tires weren’t made yet so he devised a way to put multiple tires side by side so he would be able to get better traction. Today, however, most of the buggies on the fleet are using airplane tires to be able to run their course.

dune rides

The ORV area of the dunes has all types of vehicles on it such as a standard size trucks, dirt bikes, and custom built vehicles people have made just for the dunes. It’s really amazing to just sit and watch everything go by, but Mac Woods is different because it gives you a look into the beauty of the dunes themselves rather than what rides on the dunes.

If you are an old time duner like me or have never been out on the dunes before, I would seriously consider going on a Mac Woods Dune Ride. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours with your family, and to learn a little bit more about the Silver Lake area, and the history of the dunes themselves. I promise you that you will not regret it!

Stephanie Howard

by Stephanie Howard