The time-honored tradition of a little cabin in the big Northwoods takes on extra enchantment during the hush of the offseason. Plan your next great escape in these cozy rentals.
This article first appeared in Traverse Northern Michigan. Find this story and more when you explore our magazine library. Want Traverse delivered to your door or inbox monthly? View our print subscription and digital subscription options.
When the wind rattles the windowpanes and the fire snaps and crackles, our souls take the signal to settle in for maximum cozy, peak snuggling, deep rest.
Cabins are good like that. We don’t mean 5,000-square-foot “cabins” with heated garages, in-home theaters and Viking stoves. We’re talking woodstoves. Two-track driveways. Log everything.
My love of cabins began on a 2015 trip to Iceland. The Scandinavian structures that dotted the country’s hillsides captivated me, and a brush with a delightful short-term rental inspired me to begin exploring the for-rent cabin scene back home in Michigan.
I’ve since visited more than 70 across the Midwest, earning the nickname “Moody Cabin Girl.” In 2018, I began documenting this journey of architecture and hospitality through my blog and Instagram account, gathering together a group of 40,000 followers (and growing) who enjoy a well-crafted chalet or reimagined A-frame. Here, I share some of my all-time favorite rentals for snow-day getaways in the North.
Nostalgic Retreat on the Sturgeon River
Quick Facts: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Location: Indian River
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This retro A-frame is located on the banks of the Sturgeon River and boasts a maximalist interior design that is both inviting and cozy. The cabin is filled with interesting décor, from the intricate chandelier in the dining area to the seafoam-green couch in the living room. After a winter storm, guests gazing out of the floor-to-ceiling windows might catch a glimpse of deer feasting on the snow-covered branches of a giant tree that sits by the water.
Scandinavian Oasis Near Downtown
Quick Facts: 14 cabins, made up of 2- and 3-bedroom units
Location: Williamsburg
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The KOTI community is located just outside of Traverse City, making it an ideal basecamp for those looking to enjoy an easy jump to downtown’s restaurants and boutiques, but from a peaceful perch in the countryside. These Nordic dwellings look striking against a forested backdrop that allows you to feel at one with nature. Guests can easily hop on the TART trail (bring your bikes or skis). When the snow begins to fall, don’t be surprised if you feel as though you’ve been transported to a Nordic country—the Scandi vibes and minimalist luxury are spot on.
Sanctuary at Sweet Lake
Quick Facts: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Location: Lake Ann
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This A-frame on a peaceful lake in quaint Lake Ann is the perfect blend of modern and rustic. Although the building has a vintage structure, the interior has been totally reimagined. During the winter, guests can hike nearby trails or crack open a book in a restful nook.
Acorn Family Retreat
Quick Facts: 8 guests, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Location: East Tawas
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Northeast Michigan often misses out on the spotlight, but Tawas is a gem that can’t be overlooked. Nor should Acorn Family Retreat, a new cabin tucked on the shores of Lake Huron. It’s best described as a beach house with a touch of whimsy; a huge draw is the private beach guests can access just steps away, which delights even in winter with frosty sunrises. The best part? It’s family and pet friendly! Bring along the whole gang.
Dune Ranch on Lake Michigan
Quick Facts: 10 guests, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Location: Northport
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If spending a weekend on your own personal dune sounds like something on your bucket list, this Airbnb will tick that box. Dune Ranch offers access to 100 feet of pristine, private Lake Michigan beach and is a Mid-century Modern–lover’s dream. The architecture and interior design are minimalistic, clean and sleek. Make a cup of hot cocoa, watch the sunset and then let the sounds of the waves outside lull you all to sleep.
Hideaway at Black Lake
Quick Facts: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Location: Onaway
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This log house is tucked on Black Lake, the seventh-largest inland lake in the state. The area is surrounded by state forest, allowing visitors to easily escape into the big quiet of the woods. Many hiking spots wait nearby and Lake Huron is just a short drive away. The house is rustic but comfortable. Inside, you’ll find plenty of carefully curated knick-knacks, giving it the feel of a quintessential Northern Michigan family cabin. Winter bonus: The owners decorate for the holidays, making it especially festive this time of year.
Vintage Ski Chalet Near Boyne Highlands
Quick Facts: 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Location: Harbor Springs
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Midcentury modern aficionados will adore this gambrel-roofed chalet. Built in 1969, it’s decked out in antiques and special finds giving it an authentic retro feel. During the winter months, nothing is cozier than staying warm inside while taking in the view of Boyne Highlands after a long day on the slopes. (You can walk to the ski hill, it’s that close!) Bundle up and make s’mores over the fire pit on the upper back deck.
Picturesque Cottage on Spider Lake
Quick Facts: 7 guests, 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Location: Traverse City
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This charming cottage on Spider Lake features an open floor plan with ample windows that provide stunning views of the lake year-round; you can also take them in from a sweet multi-level deck, or the spacious sitting area at the end of the dock. In the living room, a gas fireplace invites you to relax and unwind. The cottage is just a short drive from downtown; indulge in a farm-to-table dinner and then tuck back in for a restful night.
Forested Lodge near Manistee Lake
Quick Facts: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Location: Kalkaska
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Recently remodeled, this A-frame on a pretty wooded lot has been tastefully designed with Scandinavian flair, and the open floor plan makes socializing a breeze. You’ll also be tempted to curl up by the ample deck and sweet firepit. While the cabin isn’t available all winter, if you stay at the right time in the fall or spring, you could be treated to a snowy holiday.
Northern Getaway on the Keweenaw Peninsula
Quick Facts: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Location: Eagle Harbor
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Standing sentry on the northernmost tip of the Upper Peninsula, this saltbox home sits perched on a rocky cliff overlooking Lake Superior. It’s been beautifully reimagined—lots of barn doors, leather, sheepskin, soft pillows and throws. Inside, the focal point is a large stone fireplace. Outside, you’ll be mesmerized by the deck and seating area balanced on the edge of the rocky coastline within spitting distance of Mother Superior’s crashing waves.
Fairytale Cottage on Lake Medora
Quick Facts: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 baths
Location: Keweenaw Peninsula
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The owners named this magical spot Anam Cara, or “soul friend” in Gaelic, and there’s no denying the soul-satisfying feel in this cottage built of beam and branch, stone and wood. Details like stick railings and 88 handmade lamps/illuminated panels bring the outdoors in. Guests can cozy up inside or venture out for skiing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If the weather gets too extreme, visitors will have to hitch a ride in by snowmobile—sign us up.
Intimate A-Frame in the Woods
Quick Facts: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Location: Harbor Springs
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This cabin is far enough outside downtown Harbor Springs to feel secluded, but close enough to enjoy the benefits of nipping in for a movie at the Lyric Theatre or brunch at Small Batch. On the inside: Bohemian vibes, with super-cute curation of pillows and tablescapes. A woodstove stokes the ambiance, and the outdoor fire pit is a great spot to roast marshmallows if you tuck a blanket around your shoulders. Bonus: This property is a very short drive to Pond Hill Farm, a working farm with an onsite café, winery, brewery and a winter market.
Tranquil Interlude in Atlanta
Quick Facts: 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath
Location: Atlanta
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You’ll find this sweet, recently renovated cabin in Michigan’s “elk belt,” between Alpena and Gaylord. One of its main features is the large bank of windows that offer stunning views of Crooked Lake from the comfort of the home’s interior. From the upstairs loft, there are gorgeous views of the main floor and a bird’s-eye view of wildlife outside. Atlanta is known as the elk capital of Michigan, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of one of these majestic creatures. More outdoor fun? Bundling up to hike nearby Clear Lake State Park.
Bohemian Woodside Paradise
Quick Facts: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Location: Interlochen
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This Scandi-modern A-frame is located down a dirt road and far enough outside of town to give an off-the-grid feel, yet no comfort has been spared. The Wi-Fi is robust, a mini-split system provides heating and cooling, and the kitchen has everything you need to cook a five-star meal. The space may be tiny, but it’s airy and deliciously thought out with an open floor plan and a minimalistic boho design. This shingled darling sits just across the street from Bronson Lake public access and has multiple hiking options nearby.
Family-Friendly Haven on Little Traverse Lake
Quick Facts: 10 guests, 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bath
Location: Cedar
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This cottage has been owned by the same family for generations, and now they love sharing it with other families. The accommodating rental has a beachy, vintage vibe, a mix of white-washed wood and knotty pine, and is just a hop from the community of Cedar in Leelanau County. While its calendar isn’t open all winter, it makes a lovely retreat in the fall, when farmstands are bursting with pumpkins and apples.
Gina Marie Jeffries shares her favorite stays online at moodycabingirl.wordpress.com and on Instagram @moodycabingirl.
More Northern Michigan Cabins to Explore
Lisa Haase
Hello :). Looks like you have the wrong link for the Spider Lake one…It takes you to the Harbor Springs one…
Rachel Souillere
Thank you for letting us know! The link has been updated.