Michigan Snowmobile Trails

We know that sometimes we can get a little fanatic about things to do and places to see in Michigan but if we weren’t, we wouldn’t be a very good company to promote Michigan now would we? We love everything about Michigan but let’s be honest, you gotta find at least one or two hobbies in the winter to warm us up and keep us busy. Snowmobiling in Michigan is truly fantastic and avid snowmobilers love the snowmobile trails in Michigan that lead you around the great lakes and through the forests. Michigan has plentiful snow to keep the volunteers busy with the trails. Join a Michigan snowmobile club, enjoy warm dinners on your mapped out snowmobile trail and relax by the fire in a cozy cabin. Now that sounds like an ideal Michigan winter vacation. To check out Michigan snowmobiling trails, maps, videos and cabin rentals, head to our Michigan snowmobiling page now!

Michigan Snowmobile Trails

We also have snowmobile trails and videos along with cabin rentals in Wisconsin and Minnesota too. Check out those sites too!

Wisconsin Snowmobile Trails

Minnesota Snowmobile Trails

The Best of Wisconsin Snowmobile Trails

All in all, Wisconsin is a winter wonderland of snow for avid snowmobilers but to fit our criteria for the best areas for snowmobile trails in Wisconsin, it had to be more than just snow and trails. The area needed events, clubs, and hundreds of miles of well groomed trails. When people look for snowmobiling in Wisconsin, they want the true effect. The long weekend or week vacation in a Eagle River cabin, sitting by the fire after a long day of zipping by on a snowmobile, and nobody gets that like we do. We actually dedicated a whole page to avid snowmobilers looking for a winter cabin rental in Wisconsin, complete with videos, cabin pictures, and things to do in the area.

⇓View our Snowmobiling in Wisconsin page for more information!⇓

Wisconsin Snowmobile Trails, Cabins, and Information

You would be crazy to miss these 4 Winter Events in #Wisconsin!

barstool

With these sub zero temps, who can blame us for wanting to find something good about winter? It doesn’t have to keep us inside and miserable with the cat that has allergies (just saying). It can be exciting and fun. These events are just a few (but really stellar) that you should escape to. Just wait and see.

Racine’s Big Chill Pro Jan. 9th-1/11

thebigchill

This is Wisconsin’s 25th year in being the People’s Choice competition for snow sculpting. Winner goes to the U.S. world championship! Enjoy family fun friendly activities and snowboarding to the Big Chill in downtown Racine. Enjoy the Rail Jam!! Thousands of visitors each year, make this one of the most successful winter events in Wisconsin.

St. Germain’s Radar Race Jan. 30- Jan. 31

Between fun runs and speed runs, shootouts and fly racing ice drags, this is the crowd with a need for speed, and perhaps, beautiful women and beer. The radar run highlights some of the fastest and most groomed tracks in the Midwest. Watch the demo rides, the Bikini race and drink a beer in the Sprecher beer tent if observing is more your thing. It’s hard to really explain, so watch the video here!

Phillip’s Winter Fest Jan. 24th-Jan. 25th

Racing-Snowmobile-on-Water

Phillips comes alive during Winter Fest with snowmobile races, parades, lawn more races (yes, that’s what we said, lawn mower races), face painting, ice fishing, snowshoeing and fireworks. Any of those strike your fancy? Maybe Tug of War will peak your interest, that can only be real fun in the winter when you knock the other team off balance. As if it isn’t weird already, they even have a keg toss competition. Check out the event at: EventCrazy.

Drummond’s Bar Stool Races Feb. 14th

This is a true “Up North” experience you should tell all your southern friends about. Nothing says I love you like spending Valentine’s day racing bar stools down a snowy hill but hey, is it ever fun?? Rules are pretty simple, there is beer at the end and cash prizes. We’re sold! Don’t quite get it? There is a video on their website!

Read these 8 tips before booking your Michigan vacation rental

Vacation Rentals are the trend for 2015. Why? It’s no surprise to us; we’ve known about the advantages of a MI vacation rental for years. There are lots of pet friendly options, homes with fireplaces and fire pits, cottages near the water and hunting cabins in the sticks. You have private parking and sometimes piers for your boat. Vacation rentals give families room to spread out and enjoy each others company.

MI vacation rental sunset

What do you need to do before you book your vacation rental? Here are some tips:

  1. Inquire about your vacation rental with the actual owner or manager before you book. They know the property (and the area) best and will have you living like a local on day one.
  2. If you are looking to bring your pet, be sure you know the Pet Policy. Some will not allow certain breeds or sizes of dogs. It might also be good to check out if there is a kennel or fenced in area for your pet while you’re gone.
  3. Know the cleaning policy. Some rental owners or managers charge a cleaning fee and don’t expect much cleaning. There others who expect to have the place ready for the next renters. Whatever the case may be, it’s always wise to take pictures or note any possible previous damage. Be very thorough.
  4. Picking up the keys. Some rentals may have a lock box on the door. Some owners might meet you at the property or have them hidden somewhere. Property Managers might have you stop at their office and pick up the keys. Know before you go!
  5. Ask about mobile phone reception. Vacation rentals can be remote. If you need use your cell phone for directions, or to check in, make sure you will have cell coverage. We recommend you have a physical map in the vehicle just in case. Ask about Wi-Fi availability too.
  6. Always ask about general supplies and what you should bring. Some supply bed sheets but not towels, or vice versa. Some supply both. Always ask about a medical kit or if you need to bring certain kitchen items that you can’t live without (like a bottle opener, muffin pan, crock pot) …you get the idea.
  7. Check out the calendar of events or a town’s Facebook page to research area events. Keep in mind that rental prices are often higher during summer, Holiday’s, and big events.
  8. Ask who you need to contact if you have any emergencies. If there is a leaky faucet or a light goes out, you will know whom to contact.

MI cabins with beaches

Wherever you GO in Michigan, you’ll have a better vacation experience in a cabin, cottage, lodge or home. See our growing selection at RentMichiganCabins.com. Avoid booking website commissions and book directly with the rental owner and save!

Best Snowmobile Trails in Minnesota

All of this snow has us antsy about snowmobiling in Minnesota. We want to pull our snowmobiles out from hiding, rev the engine, and veer off without a destination in mind, just pure bliss as the trails take us from town to town, over bridges, frozen lakes and open land. We get a glimpse of wildlife, pure white snow that blanket much of the region and glimpses of true beauty on the trails. Are you traveling to Minnesota and need to know the scoop on the snowmobile trails? This will be your trail guide!

Before we start, a word to the wise… Be sure to pack a flashlight, extra batteries, a GPS, hand warmers, a physical map and a cellphone. Always travel with another person and tell another where you will be. Cell phone coverage can be spotty in the North woods. If you can, be sure to also bring along an extra belt.

Let’s start with the Northeast corner of Minnesota with the snowmobile trail 60-the North Shore State Trail. The 146 miles of trail stretch from Grand Marias to Duluth. This is perhaps considered to be more exposed to wilderness and wildlife here, winding through forests, exposing the rider to many types of wildlife such as moose, deer, wolves and songbirds. Glide over river crossings and through remote areas of the Northeast. To find terrific lodging along this adventurous trail, check out this fantastic rental in Lutsen, MN.

Lutsen

Sleeps 7, near Lutsen’s ski hills. Click for details: http://www.rentminnesotacabins.com/detail.php?id=976.

Paul Bunyan Trail near Brainerd stretches over 120 miles, allowing snowmobiles and even skidoos on the trail, allowing everyone in your group a perfect time. Pass through or stop at some of the 14 towns that dot the trail for food, shopping or gas and be on your way. Brainerd is considered one of the bigger towns along the way but  don’t forget to stop through baxter, ride by the Crow Wing State Park, through all the towns to Walker, ending your day trip to Bemidji State Park before returning back to your vacation rental back in Brainerd! Check it out!

6 bedrooms with rec room. Check rates here: http://www.rentminnesotacabins.com/detail.php?id=980

6 bedrooms with rec room. Check rates here: http://www.rentminnesotacabins.com/detail.php?id=980

Chippewa National Forest trails has to be quite possibly one of the most scenic trails in the state, allowing 330 miles to showcase forest life uninterrupted. Catch wildlife cohabitating with each other, observe the high tree line and zip over the wetlands. To warm up inside and re gather at night in your vacation rental, be sure to stay here!

Pet friendly and surrounded by the Chippewa State Forest. For details, click here: http://www.rentminnesotacabins.com/detail.php?id=1122

Pet friendly and surrounded by the Chippewa State Forest. For details, click here:
http://www.rentminnesotacabins.com/detail.php?id=1122

Always check current snow conditions and be sure to leave ample time to really explore the trails. Promote safe riding and always keep to the trails, without this advice, you can really ruin your vacation, and trust us. While it may make for an interesting story down the road, it may spoil your dinner.

RentMinnesotaCabins.com is a state specific vacation rental website that loves to share the word on awesome vacation properties and things to do in the area. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and subscribe to our blogs to get new and interesting content!

WI Deer Camp Means Memorable Traditions and Changes

Every fall, women get together in packs and joke about being a widow for the weekend …you know they are from Wisconsin. Wisconsin has a large deer population, in fact it is in the top 10 for North America for deer hunting. There is also bear, turkey, pheasant, grouse, quail, and waterfowl to hunt! Some things to know before you go:

whitetail deer

A new crossbow law is being tested. Previously, hunters that were above the age of 65 and/or had physical disabilities were able to crossbow hunt. This new law lets hunters opt for the crossbow — the law will be tested for three years to see what will come of it. Some say that the crossbow is too efficient and will lead to an overkill of the deer population and will shorten the length of deer season. Only time will tell to see if this will be a permanent law. In the meantime, we can expect more deer hunters to join in on the experience of DEER CAMP, and we know just the places to set up camp.

One of the highest deer population rates is in Shawano County. The county has reported a deer population of 52,700. Shawano is a small city of about 9,000 people and offers a lot in recreation and quality deer hunting. The forests, farmland and marshes make this area great for sizable whitetail deer. It is against the law to feed deer in this county but with the population the way it is, you should have no problem bagging one. Ten miles away sits public land over 14,500 acres called the Navarino Wildlife Area. This area is one of the most densely populated areas in the state. When thinking about staying here, check out Adventure’s Cabins. These cabins sit on Lulu Lake, which makes it perfect for fall fishing as well. After your full day of outdoor activities, your group can sit in front of the wood burning fire stove and ‘make a plan for tomorrow’. There’s even a washer and a dryer. This property comes with a fire pit, private dock, canoe and rowboat.

adventure

Next we head straight over to the other side of the state along the Mississippi river in Buffalo County where many areas are heavy with deer, turkey, waterfowl and pheasant populations. Buffalo County is home to roughly 32000 whitetail deer becoming the forefront of the nation in deer size, recording 309 “wall-hangers” in just 10 years! It’s safe to say that after the hunting season, you won’t be disappointed. On that note, we have cabins in Buffalo County that will fit your needs.

Fountain City, a small town right on the river and claims to be the “River Bluff Capital of the World”. There you will find HNL Farms: Heritage House. This home is a nice, peaceful and relaxing homestead where you can cook on the grill, or head to town for a good bite to eat. Use the fire pit at night and tip back a couple — it OK to dream about which wall you’re putting your next trophy buck on. If you have some young hunters; there’s even a clubhouse and game room not too far off!

hnl

There is also Cross Ridge Retreat in Fountain as well. This retreat boasts vista like panoramic views of wildlife and the Upper Mississippi River valley all seen by the three season porch. Relax and enjoy the heated clubhouse with a bar and game room. If there is an early snowfall, this retreat is right on the Buffalo County Snowmobile trail.

crossridge1 crossridge

If we head back to a more central location, Tomah, you will get a chance to see some of the state’s best deer hunting. This area has predicted 28,600 deer for this upcoming year. It’s absolutely beautiful and is a great low stress environment with plenty of marshy grounds. These Tomah cabins put you in Deer and Bear country.

If both deer and bear sound good, stay a few days in the Tomah area. The Bald Eagle Lodge in Warrens, WI can sleep over 20 people so bring the family and friends along! This is absolutely perfect! There are two kitchens, two private decks and a patio. This rental is perfect for a family get together where the fun can be shared AND separate at the same time. While the men hunt in the nearby Black River State Forest, the rest of the family can enjoy the Lodge amenities, head to town, or even do some horseback riding.

bald eagle baldeagle2

Hunters enjoy all that Wisconsin has to offer because it is truly paradise. To learn and get engaged with more Wisconsin  hunting or even to see what Wisconsin Outdoor Fun is all about, head over to WisconsinOutdoorFun.com! Grab your friends or family and make your hunting trip memorable. Stay at a great Wisconsin Vacation Rental! See our entire selection at RentWisconsinCabins.com – you’ll love the Narrow Your Search tool and the interactive Google Map. The best part is — you always connect, plan and book directly with rental owners or managers to get the best rate.

Did you hear? We recently launched 3 other state-specific vacation rental websites for Minnesota cabins, Michigan vacation rentals, and even New York cottages! Check them out.

Introducing Hauser’s Bayfield Cabin

Think secluded. Think relaxation. It’s Bayfield.

We’ve just added (yet another!) vacation property to RentWisconsinCabins. Enjoy northern Wisconsin in Hauser’s Bayfield Cabin. Let this vacation property be your home away from home. The private setting offers peacefulness with scenic views of nature from every window. Enjoy the pine ceilings, designer bath, granite counters, knotty cherry cabinets, and more. Also included in the cabin is WiFi, Netflix, Pandora music, and Sirius Satellite radio. The property has one bedroom and generally sleeps up to 2. Though two more people can stay at the cabin if one person sleeps on the sofa and one sleeps on the chaise in the living room.

Thinking of taking a winter retreat? Across from Hauser’s is the main snowmobile trail to Lake Superior. Or bundle up and spend a day ice fishing on Lake Superior. During the warmer months, enjoy the outdoor grill and firepit. A few hundred yards from the vacation property is a trail which leads to the Town of Russell public beach (photo above). Here you can enjoy the view of the Raspberry Island Lighthouse, take a dip in the water, or put in a kayak. The Bayfield area offers other great recreational options, fantastic dining, and various festivals and events

Find other unique WI vacation properties at RentWisconsinCabins.com.

               Other Popular Wisconsin vacation destinations:

    Eagle River          |          Twin Lakes         |         Wisconsin Dells