Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
Highlights
Made for relaxation
Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
Overlooking the river
Guests like the scenic riverfront location.
Discover nearby landmarks
Close to Au Sable River
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4
Popular amenities
Onsite parking available
Dog-friendly
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Barbecue grill
Deck or patio
Explore the area
Grayling, MI
Au Sable River
Place, Au Sable River
‪1 min walk‬
Wakeley Bridge Landing
Place, Wakeley Bridge Landing
‪5 min walk‬
Mason Tract Pathway
Place, Mason Tract Pathway
‪18 min walk‬
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC
Newly re-modeled! Built in the 1940's by famed fly fishing guide Jim Wakeley, our 'River Cabin' is located at the historic Wakeley Bridge. 'Uncle Jim' purchased the property during World War II and began developing the property one building at a time. As a second generation fly fishing guide, my family and I are working to keep the memory of Jim Wakeley alive and share our love of the river. The cabin is nestled along the world famous 'Holy Waters', a 'fly's only', 'catch and release' section on the AuSable. The cabin is just a short drive to the North and South Branches of the river.
For the golf enthusiast we are only a short drive away from both, Forest Dunes Golf Club and Garland Golf Resort. For the hikers, bikers and bird watchers the cabin is three miles from Wakeley Lake, a beautiful part of the Huron-Mainistee National Forest area with miles of trails with loon and eagle sightings on a regular basis.
The quiet and cozy cabin offers two bedrooms with a queen size bed in each, full kitchen with living area including a couch, for additional sleeping. Dishes and linens are supplied along with a charcoal grill. There is a riverside fire pit for enjoying the summer evenings. Now with AC! Pets are considered, dogs only. Breed and number of dogs are to be disclosed at time of inquiry. Pet fee / $50.00 per stay. Whether you are fly-fishing, canoeing or simply relaxing our cabin provides it all.
Note: Owners live on property. If your dog is allowed he/she must be leashed, not allowed on furniture and if left alone must be crated.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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Welcome to your Up North getaway! This cozy 2-bedroom cabin-style motel sits on the North Branch of the AuSable River with quick access to the water via a short two-track trail. You’ll also be close to the legendary Lovells Riverside Tavern.
Grayling
Welcome to your Up North getaway! This cozy 2-bedroom cabin-style motel sits on the North Branch of the AuSable River with quick access to the water via a short two-track trail. You’ll also be close to the legendary Lovells Riverside Tavern.
Lovells Riverside Cabin #1 is just steps from the North Branch of the AuSable River with private stair access. You’re also moments from the iconic Lovells Riverside Tavern.
Grayling
Lovells Riverside Cabin #1 is just steps from the North Branch of the AuSable River with private stair access. You’re also moments from the iconic Lovells Riverside Tavern.
Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lbs per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed outside of cabin
Well mannered dogs allowed with prior approval from owner.
Must be leashed, not allowed on furniture and never left alone.
Also note:
Fireworks not allowed.
Quiet time begins at 10 p.m.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 563651
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the neighborhood
Grayling
Located in Grayling, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Hartwick Pines State Park and Huron-Manistee National Forest, while AuSable Artisan Village and Crawford County Historical Museum are cultural highlights. Kayaking and motor boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and hiking nearby.
Hartwick Pines State Park - 17 min drive - 30.6 km
Hanson Hills Recreation Area - 20 min drive - 30.3 km
Getting around
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 74 min drive
Restaurants
‪Keeper’s Pub - ‬21 min drive
‪Gallagher’s Sports Bar & Grill - ‬7 min drive
‪Taco bell - ‬10 min drive
‪Camp Biberoni - ‬15 min drive
‪Gallagher's Sports Bar And Grill - ‬4 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC ?
As of Sep 28, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC on Oct 4, 2026 start from $266, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC ?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC ?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps from Huron-Manistee National Forest and Au Sable River. Wakeley Bridge Landing and Mason Tract Pathway are also within 1 mi (2 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
The cabin is lovely. The guys fished everyday. Colleen and Dave were gracious hosts. Kitchen is well stocked. Only issue was the pillows are very soft! We will rent here again.
This was our second time staying here. The cabin, property, and the hosts are top notch. Sitting around the fire on the river bank after kayaking is so relaxing, a true hidden gem.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 23, 2026
Thank you for the great review. We enjoy you coming and staying here on the river. Hope to see you again next season.
Definitely just as described-very clean, and has everything you need-to enjoy our stay! . If you're looking for a relaxing, beautiful slice of heaven, and peaceful vacation, this gem is for you! Fully enjoyed the firepit and the river and the wildlife and the view! Excellent and prompt communication with the host! We will definitely stay again! Thank you Colleen for a enjoyable stay!! We loved everything about it!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 14, 2026
Thank you Lori for the wonderful review. We enjoyed hosting you here on the beautiful AuSable River. We hope you can return in the future!
Colleen
We really enjoyed our stay in the very well decorated and comfortable cabin. It was also the cleanest, freshest place we have ever stayed. The setting was beautiful and serene. The grounds are very well kept. Watching the river was very relaxing....and fishing there was fun. Just walk out the door and there you are. There is so much history with the cabin and area too.Colleen and her husband were very welcoming. They live on the property, but there is great privacy or you can enjoy a chat.We enjoyed exploring the area.We would certainly stay in their cabin again.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 3, 2026
Thank you Debbie for the wonderful review. We really enjoyed hosting you both. So happy you were able to fish right here at the cabin. We hope you return to enjoy the AuSable River once again.
I am 71 years old, and this was one of the most beautiful and relaxing places I have ever stayed, in Northern Michigan. Dave & Colleen were very accommodating and perfect hosts. Definitely as place I would love to visit again.
Loved the location right on the river, made for easy kayaking and beautiful scenery. Cabin was very clean, had everything we needed and the hosts were great. Will definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 20, 2024
Thank you Mitch for the great review. So glad you had great weather to enjoy kayaking. We hope you return to enjoy the AuSable River once again!
The cabin had everything we could need. It was extremely clean and in the perfect location. We appreciated the fishing tips. Dave and Colleen thank you for your hospitality!
What an amazing experience! The cabin was incredibly clean and well equipped, and the property is spectacular. Dave and Colleen are warm, wonderful hosts. We look forward to our next stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Jay A.
Sep 4, 2018
Beautiful piece of property. Loved it.
Very clean and quiet. Beautiful piece of property with super friendly owners.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 23, 2020
So happy you were able to stay at our River Cabin on the beautiful AuSable River. Hope you return in the future.
Colleen and Dave
Everything was wonderful! Beautiful cabin, comfortable and spotless. Many thoughtful touches including a fire pit with wood and starter materials, charcoal grill. The kitchen had everything we needed. The location is awesome, right on the Au Sable river, quiet and peaceful.
Absolutely loved our stay on the Holy Waters. We came to fly fish, and it didn't disappoint. The grounds and cabin are adorable- a real dream of a retreat. Our dogs had a blast playing in the little canal alongside the cabin. It's just 10 min to Grayling for restaurants and breweries. It was perfect.
We really enjoyed our stay on the cute and clean little cottage. We really appreciated how responsive the owners were to any questions. Highly recommend this cottage rental.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 23, 2020
So glad you enjoyed your stay. Please keep us in mind for future travels!
Thanks again,
Colleen
The best VRBO property I ever stayed at. It was squeaky clean and everything in place and the grounds were emasculate . The cabin on the river was north woods - knotty pine throughout with log style furniture. Beds were comfortable . River frontage with a great view from the cabin. . While cabin is small they did a nice job of utilizing the space with a well planned out layout . The grounds has a big lawn all the way to the river with fire pit and firewood. A quaint rustic bridge takes you over a small stream to an island with a bench to allow the sound of the river to discard any stress you may have brought with you . I look forward to staying there again . Colleen and Dave are perfect hosts
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 26, 2026
Thank you Jim for the great review. We enjoyed hosting you here on the AuSable River. We hope you return in the future.
Thanks again,
Colleen and Dave
We had a wonderful time. Colleen and Dave are fantastic hosts and the cabin was very comfortable and clean. Thanks!!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on May 26, 2021
Alan,
Thank you for staying with us in our River Cabin. We hope you return to fish the AuSable River!
Colleen and Dave
About the host
Hosted by Colleen Wyss
Second generation fly fishing guide taught by the famed Jim Wakeley. My wife and I bought the property in 1978 raised our three children here and continue to enjoy having our four grandchildren enjoy it also.
Why they chose this property
Our Aunt wanted the property to stay in the family so after the sudden death of our Uncle Jim we bought it from her to continue the traditions that they started.
What makes this property unique
We love the River and cannot imagine ever not being here. The view of the River is spectacular and fishing is great. So nice to be able to walk out and be right at the riverfront.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests