Author: Joe Mogensen

Lakeside #Vacation Paradise in Curtis, MI
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Lakeside #Vacation Paradise in Curtis, MI

What’s not to love about the Upper Peninsula if you are into the great outdoors? While we know that Upper Peninsula is known for extraordinary recreational pastimes, what area seems to be one of the best areas that we like to go to? Curtis, Michigan has the small town charm with exceptional recreational opportunities and the convenience of all things needed to have a great time here.

Located in between Big Manistique Lake and South Manistique Lake, Curtis is the destination for any lakeside vacation. With early warming waters, vacationers can enjoy sailing, boating, paddle boating, paddle boarding, tubing, skiing, fishing (some of the best fishing is here) and much more. With over 20,000 acres of land across the six lake complex and 3 public boat accesses, you will surely find a way to fish year round. Be sure to also fish the Fox River. Ernest Hemingway once named this river “Big Two-hearted River” and once claimed to catch over 200 fish in the Fox River while camping along its banks.

Curtis, MI

Coming up! Curtis, Michigan’s Octoberfest September 26th for the 9th year in a row. Oktoberfest features live bands and all craft beers that are made in the U.P., German food, variety of booths and entertainment.

Thinking of rental one or two cabins in Curtis, MI? We have just the rental. Loon’s Nest has one and two bedroom cottages with a 14’ aluminum boat, cable, wood burning stove and fire pit. The views from the sliding glass door and lakeside bench are impeccable. To view this property for year round availability, click this link!

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Want some insider tips and an up to the minute fishing report? Call Mick at 906-586-6040. To enjoy a local homemade meal, we always suggest Stampers right on Main Street. Good prices and large portions will have your bellies filled while you hop onto your ATVs or go boating. At night, reign in at the the Shipwreck Bar and Grille. This bar has a dj at night, cheap eats and nightly specials including a fish fry.

Other entertainment options are available as well. Do you like to golf? Whether you like to mini golf at Aunt Teaks and Uncle Junks Mini Golf or go check out the Siberian tiger at the family owned Garlyn Zoo & Gift Shop, you will not be bored. Another unique Upper Peninsula activity in the area is the Oswald Bear Ranch. This ranch gives you a rare chance to observe 29 bears barrier free. Free admission for active military personnel.

We have a serious addiction to Cabin Time. This could be why we have other vacation rentals in four other states! If your looking for another state, try these websites too:

www.RentWisconsinCabins.com     www.RentMinnesotaCabins.com      www.RentNewYorkCabins.com      www.RentMontanaCabins.com

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#UpperPeninsula lodge provides a great fall escape

Owners of vacation rentals always start out for different reasons, whether to help pay the mortgage on a home they don’t primarily live in or it could be a way to meet people from all over. Whatever the case may be, Todd Dejong, a rental owner of a cabin called Powell Shores Lodge in Wetmore, Michigan, is considered to be one of the best kept secrets. This lodge is less than 5 miles away from the shore of the majestic Lake Michigan and Munising, where sugary sands, artsy stores, soulful artists and small town charm evade this area. While summer weeks are sure to be the busiest times for Todd, fall is actually his favorite time of the year and who can blame him? Fall is a great time for reflection.

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Most people assume that Michigan isn’t as nice as a southern coast vacation destination but it is quite the contrary. While avoiding high sticker prices that typical travel destinations usually have, Munising, Michigan is the mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, soulful art, and endless sunsets along the shores. There are even lighthouse tours that tell a story of history and many shipwrecks to discover.

With the kids back in school, the crowds tend to be typically smaller and prices slightly cheaper. The leaves decorate the shoreline with blazes of oranges and reds. The waterfalls populating the area, making it the capital of the waterfalls in the whole Midwest and let’s not forget hunting season, a tradition that the U.P. thrives on!

Munising_Falls

First on the list of things to check out should be the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Fall makes this a perfect time to go. You can explore the sand cliffs, dunes, waterfalls, spectacular views and snowmobile trails. This park spans over 40 miles of shoreline and offers great hiking opportunities. Sandy Point beach is often too cold for swimming, however, the Weather Channel has voted this to be one of the “Top 5 Summer Beaches in America”

Dejong goes on to say that this area is well known for its snowmobile trails, having over 300 miles of groomed trails and not to mention many more miles that are not groomed. There is also the Alger Underwater Preserve for divers, showing off its many sea caves and shipwreck opportunities. Explore lighthouses and spend a day with the friendly locals getting a bite to eat at one of the local eateries and drink a micro brew at the bar. Whatever your passion is, think outside the busy travel dates and imagine a vacation a great way.

Dejong, who owns Powell Shores Lodge, describes his lodge as quiet and peaceful, really allowing you to enjoy the of the U.P. atmosphere. This lodge offers a rowboat and great fishing opportunities right by the man made rock wall by the dock and with local great hunting opportunities, there is truly something here for everyone.

powell shores

We love Michigan but we also have vacation rentals in other states as well! Try out these other state specific vacation rentals!

www.rentwisconsincabins.com

www.rentminnesotacabins.com

www.rentnewyorkcabins.com

www.rentmontanacabins.com

It’s not just about going to Yellowstone National Park, it’s about the drive getting there.

We often think about what the fastest route to our destination may be, whether it is by plane, train or automobile. What if you could have both? Our new ranch cabin in Montana provides an escape from the crowded tourist areas, nestled in between the Tobacco Root Mountains and the Jefferson River. Think about it. People travel to Montana for the rugged outdoors, not the wild nightlife. Our new cabin listing is Silver Star, Montana (sounds dreamy, right)? Enjoy many outdoor opportunities such as world class trout fishing, mountain biking, skiing, and more. The thrill is everywhere. Want to learn the basics of roping in animals? Enjoy the roping clinics in nearby Twin Bridges.

Channel your inner Lewis and Clarke personas and go on an expedition around the Beaverhead National Forest. Abundant wildlife opportunities are here so be sure to pack your camera. The Lewis and Clarke Caverns are a must see in the area if you can manage a moderate trek to the caverns. This tour is highly rated and lasts about 2 hours.

Lewis and Clarke Caverns

The Tobacco Mountains provide refuge and hot springs for those that love to see the wide vast landscape on a mountain. These mountains are mostly gently for great hiking and biking. One of the warmest hot springs is in the Tobacco Root mountains named Barkell Hot Springs at over 160 degrees.

Tobacco Root Cabin

Your cabin in Silver Star is a log cabin built by the owner, Chip. This classic log cabin in Montana is perfect for your weekend mountain getaway or a chance to see the land of the wild west on your adventure to Yellowstone National Park. This cabin sleeps 6 comfortably. It is located right on the creek for the best trout fishing in the area. Don’t be surprised if you look out and see a moose or a deer on our ranch, our neighbors are friendly! In the evening, enjoy a blanket of stars and a bottle of wine. If it is chilly ( the rental is open year round for snowmobiling and skiing in Montana) then cozy up by the fireplace. Enjoy majestic views of mountains all the way from your Silver Star cabin to Yellowstone National Park. The drive itself is a little over 2.5 hours but totally worth it for your next Montana Cabin Vacation. 

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View photos, reviews, rates and more here

To view other Montana Cabin Rentals, please click here.

Round 2: Don’t miss events in Lake George

Lake George is more than just a touristy area with lots of recreational activities to do. Besides the thrills and chills of Lake George, you can enjoy the many local events and festivals. Check out the must see events in Lake George below. Not to mention, places to stay in Lake George (because who would we be without some love for our vacation rental owners.)

Lake George Jazz Festival:

This thumping and pumping festival will have you singing the blues, or…at least tapping your foot to it. Enjoy many bands throughout the two day festival in September. Bring a blanket and picnic basket, but most importantly, don’t forget the wine and cheese tray…

<p><a href=”https://vimeo.com/103344693″>Jazz at the Lake 30-Year Commemorative Documentary Preview</a> from <a href=”https://vimeo.com/user31145049″>Gruskin Group</a> on <a href=”https://vimeo.com”>Vimeo</a&gt;.</p>

Village Estates: This two bedroom vacation rental is pet friendly and lakeside. What more could you ask for? Enjoy free paddle boat use and a private fire ring for cozy evenings under the stars. Enjoy your home away from home for Jazz Festival!

2 Bedroom vacation rental in Lake George

Adirondack Balloon Festival: Country Living voted this the 4th out of 18 Fall Festivals in the United States, making this a must see event in Lake George. Book a ticket to explore the Adirondack festival by the favorited mode of transportation around here. You guessed it. A hot air balloon. Launching from Warren County Airport, this festival can be seen for miles. You will see all kinds of balloons traversing and navigation through the sky by international pilots from all over the world. In just 4 days, the crowd reaches over 150,000 people. Named one of the Top 100 events in North America.So do you know what I am going to suggest now? Yup, we suggest to book your vacation rental for this September event long before the actual event.

Southern Lake George: This stunning large vacation rental is perfect for your group of 12. Enjoy the tri-level home with luxurious accommodations, floor to ceiling windows overlooking Lake George, hardwood floors, Whirlpool tub, lakeside dining and a screened in porch. The large fireplace, wet bar and expansive porch are true gems of this vacation rental.

Vacation rental in Lake George for Large Group

Lake George Winter Festival: It’s not only fun in Lake George in the summer and fall seasons. Winter has plenty of things to do in Lake George too. Enjoy crazy events such as outhouse races, chicken wing cook-offs, golfing, roasting marshmallows on the beach, dogsled races, fireworks over the lake and more. Who said winter means being stuck inside? Well, if you stayed at this location, you might want to…at least part of the day.

Whiteface Lodge: This cozy lodge is exactly what the doctor ordered. Imagine sitting by the fire in this luxurious lodge. Your suite gives you all kinds of access to this lodge. Inside your suite, enjoy heated floors, jetted tubs, onsite spa, heated indoor pool and fine dining restaurant. Find elegant accommodations in a tranquil setting in the Adirondacks here.

Whiteface Lodge in Lake George 

For a list of other vacation rentals by A Life Made Simple, Please check out these vacation rentals here:

Hondah Loop Vacation Rental in Lake George: 2 bedroom lakeside cozy cottage has a fire pit, beach, playground and patio furniture for all outdoor interests. Perfect for small families or couples.

cottage for rent in Lake George

Crest haven Lodge: A relaxing resort with your very own lodge, indoor/outdoor pool, beach, and much more. 2 bedroom 2 bath cabin style lodges for your group. You will keep coming back year after year to make memories.

Lake George Lodges

Cottage Lane in Bolton Landing: Bring your family and fido to this 3 bedroom lakeside cottage. It has a gradual slope, sandy beach. Unwind on the expansive deck with full sun and gas grill. 

bolton

Explore all of Yellowstone in a nearby cabin

Simply put, Yellowstone National Park is breathtaking. The world’s first national park is the home to the famous Old Faithful. It is no doubt that Yellowstone is a park that requires at least a week to fully explore lush forests, an active volcano, gushing rivers, the prized Yellowstone Lake, and many diverse species of wildlife, flora and fauna. While discovering Yellowstone, ditch the hard ground, assembling tents, and semi cold coolers and enjoy a nice comfortable stay at a cabin with a mountain view.mts

This cabin in nearby Livingston, Montana is a terrific base camp for your Yellowstone adventure. Choose Mountain View cabin for a comfortable and affordable stay. Look right out the window or deck for a million dollar view of Emigrant Peak and 8 mile creek. This area is known as Paradise Valley, a very popular area known for its vast beauty. Located 4 miles away, Chico Hot Springs offer hot springs pools and kid friendly grille with live entertainment.

The biggest attraction, Yellowstone National Park is a beautiful 34-mile drive from the cabin. The drive follows the Yellowstone River and places you at Roosevelt Arch, the northwest entrance into Yellowstone National Park. While traveling, you will likely see wildlife and the majestic peaks of the Absaroka/Beartooth mountain range the Gallatin Range.

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Pack a cheese tray and a bottle of wine for the nightly show of a blanket of gleaming stars. Melody and Gene, home owners of the cabin, are terrific local area guides to Yellowstone and Paradise Valley and love to share the area’s unique attractions. Bring your fishing line for premier fishing (please be sure to check Yellowstone fishing requirements. Check out area videos, cabin photos and more local descriptions at RentMontanaCabins.com

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View Cabins near Yellowstone Here to learn more about Yellowstone and places to stay near Yellowstone National Park.

Have you planned your winter getaway in MN this year?
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Have you planned your winter getaway in MN this year?

Who says you should hole up in your home all winter?? If we are to be in Minnesota for the winter, we must embrace everything that goes with it. That means the sweater socks, the packing snow, ice fishing, the winter festivals, winter brews and ice sculpting challenges. One thing is for sure though, try skiing in Minnesota. We suggest taking a week in the winter and booking your next minnesota vacation rental for your next skiing vacation.We have rentals near the Lutsen Ski Resort. We have made it easier for you to do this. Check out our Minnesota skiing page to see specific towns and minnesota ski resorts. Booking your winter getaway in minnesota vacation now ensures that you get the best rates and dates for your needs. 

Lutsen Ski Resort Vacation Cabin

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Lac La Belle Lake in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is wonderful this time of the year

lac

Lac La Belle is a fantastic lake near Mt. Bohemia and fall is truly a magical time of the year for this area. Our criteria for this is simple. The crowds start to thin out with kids going back to school but not completely so area attractions stay open this time of the year. The colors of the leaves changing on the trees around here are breathtakingly beautiful and provide a burst of color in your lake photos and offer a fall drive that rivals most scenic drives in the country! Enjoy Heritage Route 41 and the M26 that wind through friendly villages and ghost towns.

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The fishing is superb in all the waters here, count on catching some king salmon, muskie and lake trout. Unique to this area of Michigan is the Keweenaw Underwater Preserve. There are many shipwrecks that divers often explore but some you can even see from the surface. Enjoy the free canoes at the cabin or rent the 14 foot aluminum fishing boat w/9.9hp Envirude engine to cuise around the lake or charter fish on Lake Superior with Hooked Up Charter Fishing.

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As the temperatures get cooler and the snow starts to fall (which there is alot of in the Lac La Belle and Mt. Bohemia area) skiing in the top premier destination. Mt. Bohemia and the coming soon, Vodoo Mountain is the second largest ski region in th midwest. Be sure to check out area conditions if you’re looking to ice fish in the area. There is great ice fishing everywhere. To view more about Lac La Belle and the Mt. Bohemia region, head to www.RentMichiganCabins.com/LacLaBelle

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