Entire home

5 Minutes to Lake Michigan - Old Channel Trail Cottage

Family-friendly cottage in Montague with a water park

Kitchen with microwave and coffee maker. No dishwasher.

Electric stove and lots of cabinet space

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 61170 sq ft

Popular amenities

Parking available
Pet-friendly
Dryer
Washer
Kitchen
Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Montague, MI

Place, World’s Largest Weathervane and Ellenwood Park
‪9 min drive‬
Place, Michigan's Adventure
‪14 min drive‬
Place, Duck Lake State Park Beach
‪16 min drive‬
Airport, Muskegon, MI (MKG-Muskegon County)
‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Pull-out Couch in Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Separate dining area

Outdoor play area

Garden

About this property

5 Minutes to Lake Michigan - Old Channel Trail Cottage

Relax in a well equipped, all main-level cottage that is a half-mile (.5) walk, bike or car ride to the scenic Montague pier at Medbery Park and a breath taking stretch of Lake Michigan beach. The cottage is located on a wooded lot yet only a 10 minute drive from a grocery store, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, ice cream, antique and boutique shops in downtown Montague and Whitehall.
- Family friendly, accommodating 6 people
- Two bedroom cottage: master bedroom with a queen bed, bedroom with two twin beds, and pull-out couch in the living room
- Kitchen includes full fridge, microwave, coffee maker, stove/oven, toaster, waffle maker, crock pot
- Washer and dryer available
- Internet / WiFi available
- Two Schwinn bikes are available to take to the beach or local bike pathways
- Roast s'mores in the fire pit or hang out and grill on the back deck

- Other nearby attractions include: Lake Michigan sunsets, Michigan's Adventure amusement park & water park, Double JJ Resort, Hart-Montague bike trail, Stony Lake Stables horseback riding, Old Channel Trail Golf Course, charter fishing, Silver Lake dune rides, and Montague's Saturday farmer's market in the summer
- Visit the nearby Michigan breweries: Pigeon Hill Brewing Company in Muskegon, Big Heart Brewing Company, North Grove Brewers, Sawyers Brewing Company and Fetch Brewing

Other things to note:
- There's a window air conditioner in master bedroom and ceiling fans in both bedrooms.
- There's no dishwasher (besides yourself or your mom)
- Cell service may be limited for some carriers - but we have WiFi!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washing machine

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

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Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Parking available

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

No sidewalk on the roads to get to the beach.

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)

Well-behaved dogs only, please.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Load the dishwasher

Strip any used beds and gather used towels

Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights and lock the doors

- Check-out time is 11am ET. - Clean all dirty dishes, dry and return them to the cabinets/drawers. - Put all dirty sheets, towels, dish towels and placemats in the laundry basket by the washer.

- Take any bagged garbage out and put it in the outside garbage can by the road. Recyclables can be placed in the garage can.

- Michigan has a 10 cent deposit on pop / beer cans and bottles if you would like to return them at the store.

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

No fireworks.

Please be respectful of our neighbors by keeping noise to a minimum after 10pm.

No pets on furniture and beds and please pickup after your dog.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Long-term renters welcome

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Montague

Located in Montague, this cottage is near theme parks. Lake Michigan and Duck Lake State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Michigan's Adventure and Gold Rush Water Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Lewis Farm Market & Petting Farm and Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Cottages in Montague

Montague, MI

What's nearby

Duck Lake Outlet - 8 min drive - 6.4 km
World’s Largest Weathervane and Ellenwood Park - 9 min drive - 11.1 km
Michigan's Adventure - 14 min drive - 19.0 km
Duck Lake State Park Beach - 16 min drive - 7.8 km
Lake Express Ferry Terminal - 33 min drive - 31.3 km

Getting around

Muskegon, MI (MKG-Muskegon County) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive
‪Culver's - ‬14 min drive
‪Burger King - ‬14 min drive
‪Taco Bell - ‬14 min drive
‪Arby's - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is 5 Minutes to Lake Michigan - Old Channel Trail Cottage pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at 5 Minutes to Lake Michigan - Old Channel Trail Cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 5 Minutes to Lake Michigan - Old Channel Trail Cottage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is 5 Minutes to Lake Michigan - Old Channel Trail Cottage located?

Located in Montague, this family-friendly cottage is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) from Lake Michigan, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Medbury Park and Huron-Manistee National Forest. World’s Largest Weathervane and Ellenwood Park and Hart-Montague Trailhead are also within 6 miles (10 km).

9.8

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie B.

21 Aug, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

Cute cottage, private backyard, with the beach short drive away-this was perfect downtime

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christine C.

2 Jun, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint clean cottage

The cottage was just as expected, but the cleanliness was over and above. Loved our short stay!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

William T.

22 May, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick Weekend Up North - Spring Kings!

Had a great stay. No complaints. Nice and quiet cottage for a relaxing part of our stay out of downtown busyness.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Breanna C.

4 Aug, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome location with so much to do!

Such a cute little cottage that had so many touches that made it feel like home!! We traveled to Lewis Adventure Park in New Era and the Mac Woods Dune Rides in Silver Lake. We also enjoyed a Lake Michigan Beach Day!! The kids enjoyed the hammock and swing and grilling out was fun too.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicole E.

22 Oct, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for couples

Clean, cute property close to Lake Michigan. It was just what we were looking for to get out and do some hiking.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Christine S.

2 Sept, 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute, comfy, and clean

Such a cute house and super close to Lake Michigan. The place is clean, comfy, and well-equipped. There are tons of activities in the area. We had a great stay.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jeff J.

3 Jul, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We love it here.

2nd time staying here.. loved walking in this time knowing what to expect .. was easy to settle in because it was all the same... the location is so so perfect. The home has everything you need and is well taken care of. Appreciated the care given by the owner during the power outage from the storm!

Stayed 15 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susannah H.

28 Jul, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet Cozy Cottage Getaway Near the Beach!

We had a wonderful stay in this woodsy retreat just a short walk to the bluff, the beach, and total relaxation! Listing was exactly accurate (if anything, pictures don't do this cozy but spacious cottage justice). We enjoyed the backyard fire pit, swing, grill, deck, and hammock, and the lovely nearby beach and pier. Perfect spot for a getaway - highly recommend!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

John P.

1 Aug, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We were looking for beach and woods in one spot that wasn’t too crowded. The fire pit and woods gave me a camping feel, but we had beds and our own bathroom. Only needed the AC one night. Nice beach close by.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca K.

1 Sept, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet Getaway

Cute and clean! Especially enjoyed bikes and back yard. Rustic (bedding, lighting), but apparently updated (and spotless!) where it matters (sinks, Wi-Fi).

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristin W., Utica

5 Jan, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Channel Tail Cottage

We had such a fun time at this cute and clean cottage! Hiked the nearby beach and dunes during the winter. Jan was very easy to work with. My family wants to return in the summer!

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Steve C.

1 Aug, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming cottage!

This property is so charming and comfortable. It was very clean, had everything we needed to prepare meals indoors and out and was an inviting place to stay while visiting Lake Michigan. Jen is very responsive to questions. Everything in the cottage worked properly. If you are looking for a place to stay and be close to the beach, I highly recommend this property.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

KEN A.

23 Nov, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming and Well-Kept

The hardwood floors, arched doorways, and curved ceiling make this a charming rental in a prime location. Be aware that you will be living out of your suitcase as there are no dressers in the bedrooms. We had trouble with the TV and antennae but Jen and her husband were right on it, putting up a new antennae and new TV; now that's customer service! Our dogs were very comfortable in the back yard and we didn't experience any trouble at all with the neighbor dogs as some reviewers have mentioned. We hope we will be able to stay at Old Channel Trail Cottage again next fall. Thanks for a wonderful stay!

Stayed 31 nights in Oct 2022

8/10 Good

Kt H.

4 Jul, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Dog review

We were very pleased with the cleanliness of the cabin, i just wish there was more clarity that there isnt central AC, only an AC unit in the bedroom. I do forget that it is no where near as hot as STL in June so it cooled the cabin just fine. I would like to make sure all Pet Parents know that even though they allow dogs they dont allow them on furniture and seem not as "dog friendly" as other cabins are, especially dealing with both neighbors on each side having multiple dogs and not leashed.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary K.

15 Aug, 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay!!!!

We had a great time at Jens' place -- There were 5 of us (all adults) & we were very comfortable. Super clean - great location.. short walk to the beach ....Quiet - loved the deck for relaxing & grilling. Well equipped rental. I would recommend staying here but there was two things that I would think future renters should be aware of .. if you have At&t there is absolutely NO service -- My daughter & I couldn't use our phones at all. Not even outside -- total dead zone (We were lucky enough that my husband had Verizon & that worked pretty well ) Also, the TV service is not the greatest & the TV is super small. Only suggestion I would have... A little bigger TV & maybe a DVD player with some movies would be great for rainy weather.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2019

6/10 Okay

Jessica W.

5 Aug, 2024

Liked: Check-in

Disliked: Cleanliness, communication

Fine for coming and going

The beach/Michigan decor is super cute and helps to spruce up this aging and musty home. There was plenty of supplies including, oil, spices, foil, nightlights and games. Although, I'd encourage others to bring their own beach towels as there was only 3 for a 6 person rental. This home was not as clean as I would have liked down to the dog fur on the sheets...were the sheets not washed or did the cleaner have their dog with them? The blankets were clean but as soon as we pulled back the covers it was dog fur central. We also had to clean what I'm thinking was coffee off a few surfaces. The furniture is worn and fairly stained. We were unable to use two of the dinning room chairs as they have broken legs. As soon as we moved the chairs, the legs dangled. I did contact the owner about the furry sheets and broken furniture but she didn't really seem to care. I was pretty disappointed to be blown off like that. This home is closish to the beach but be aware it is on a busy and fast road. I also agree with another reviewer-you will be living out of your suitcase. Yes, there are closets but they are so jam packed and have a musty smell that you can't or wouldn't want to put your stuff in them. The house was fine for coming and going. I'd book elsewhere in the future.

Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather S.

19 Jul, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our second time staying here and already booked it for next year! Great location near beach, pier and lake. Great place to relax and disconnect!

Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin H.

23 Sept, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location and Privacy

this was perfect for a relaxing getaway with privacy and close location to lakeside. Clean and tidy, easy to access and close to town enough for stuff to do. We would come back!

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

2 Sept, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great for a quick family vacation

The house was perfect for our needs, which was a quick weekend away before school starts. The proximity to the lake was awesome and downtown Montague and Whitehall were just a short drive. We also were able to take a day trip to Lewis adventure farm and Michigan's adventure. My four year old son loved the swing in the backyard and the fact that we were visited by a family of deer on several occasions. If you're looking for a simple cottage vibe surrounded by nature with the convenience of summer attractions near by, I would recommend this home.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pam L.

31 Aug, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Great location and very peaceful

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shanna R.

16 Aug, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Woodsy Feel at Lake Michigan

We love the Montague area and we were lucky enough to find a cabin that we were able to bring our dog with as well. The cabin is extremely clean and well maintained. Plenty of firewood and a good sized backyard with yard games available in the garage (badminton, volleyball, and cornhole) Even though it’s mentioned that there is only the window air conditioner, the home is well shaded so we actually didn’t need to turn it on since it only got to the mid 80’s during our stay. The beach is about 3/4 of a mile or 15 minute walk. I compare the roads to a main subdivision drive without sidewalks (as far as the traffic) where you could walk it if you wanted to, but with our three kids and dog we elected to drive it. The city of Montague is only 10 minutes away with plenty of food options, and a tad bit further is Whitehall that has the typical fast food right off the highway if the local places are closed. Michigan adventure is also only 20 minutes away, which was nice because you didn’t have to get the kids up super early to go.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Joan S.

12 Aug, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Channel Trail Cottage

Cozy and comfortable when weather is cool. Single window air conditioner would not be sufficient in hot summer. Enjoyed barbecue and deck overlooking woods. Saw deer in yard and across the road in front of house.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather S.

11 Jul, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Channel Trail Cottage

We really enjoyed our stay. Great location - close to beach/lake access. Stocked with just about everything you need for your stay. We look forward to renting again next year!

Stayed 11 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura M.

13 Jun, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location!

Perfect place to ride on the rail trail, watch a Lake Michigan sunset, explore the town…and bring your dog with lots of walks right from the door!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

LOLA F.

15 Aug, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful setting

It is a beautiful setting especially back patio, everything needed is provided. Peaceful property and short walk to the beach which is not crowded. One main improvement would be to add central air or at minimum a second window air conditioner in the 2nd bedroom. Sleep was interrupted due to the room being too hot. Master bed room is ok as it has a small window air conditioner. But not having the 2nd bedroom cool enough on hot days would deter us from returning most likely. Everything else was wonderful.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Jen

Hi, I'm Jen. We've been coming to Montague and Whitehall for the past 25 years and hope you enjoy our cottage as much as we do!

Why they chose this property

There's so much to do outside we always wish we had another day to the weekend! We love to bike to Country Dairy (about 22 miles round-trip from town) for ice cream and fabulous cheeseburgers or go to Pekadill's for the best deli sandwiches, soup and more ice cream : ) We also enjoy getting out on the water with our kayaks or just relaxing on the beach.

What makes this property unique

What I love about the cottage location is being able to walk to Lake Michigan! You're just minutes from quiet, sandy beaches and gorgeous sunsets. On windy days you can hear the Lake Michigan waves crashing on the shoreline! There's lots of wildlife around and the area has a small town, up north, laid back feel.