6 cozy cabins to rent Up North for a winter getaway

If you’re getting out of southeast Michigan, start with these quaint and jaw-dropping options

By Aaron Mondry Updated Dec 23, 2019, 11:15am EST

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Let’s face it, winter can get pretty dreary in Southeast Michigan. And while it may be counterintuitive to go to a place colder than Detroit, there’s nothing like enjoying a snowy hike, then snuggling up by a wood-burning fireplace in a quiet, comfortable cabin.

We’ve scoured the internet and found the cutest, coziest, most jaw-dropping cabins you can rent Up North this winter—all of which have either a stove, fireplace, or in some special instances, a sauna. They should also have some decent availability during the winter months as well.

So take a look at these options and start booking now.

Ellsworth

This hand-built cabin situated on a cherry farm is the definition of getaway. There are tons of fantastic details and treasures inside, like the attic sleeping nook (perfect for stargazing), hot tub, and skylights. There’s also a wood-burning stove with firewood provided.

If you want to go into town to resupply, it’s only a 20-minute drive to Bellaire, home of Short’s Brewery. The owner does recommend a vehicle with four-wheel drive or risk getting stuck in the snow. Rates for the one-bedroom start at $180.

Suttons Bay

Got a bunch of friends and want to go big on your getaway? Then you’ll probably want to rent this large cabin that can accommodate 10 guests on Grand Traverse Bay.

This beautiful place has been fully outfitted and updated. There’s a 650-square-foot deck, sizable wraparound kitchen, modern bathrooms, an amazing lofted master suite—we could go on. While the private beach access may be slightly less enticing in the winter, there’s plenty of places nearby for hiking. This well-reviewed, eight-bed cabin is renting for $159 per night.

A large wooden cabin with tall windows and an A frame roof with a chimney. There is a porch in front of the cabin.

Powell

If you’re willing to drive to this cedar log cabin in the Upper Peninsula (about eight hours from Detroit), it’s definitely worth it. The design on this one really stands out and includes vaulted ceilings and a lofted sleeping area.

It’s also right on Lake Superior’s Big Bay, offering unmatched views of the pristine waters, and some great nearby hiking. The natural stone fireplace awaits on your return. This two-bedroom rents for $176 a night.

A cabin with a red facade and a grey roof. The door is wooden. There is a tree and two white chairs on the lawn in front of the cabin.

Interlochen

This quaint, barn-style cabin sits on 53 acres of private land, borders thousands of acres of state forest, is just a short hike from Platte River. Bonus: The Sleeping Bear Dunes are only 15 minutes away by car. The 750-square-foot home itself is modest, but has everything you need to enjoy a getaway.

There’s also a wood-burning stove that heats the cabin. But the real treat of this rental is the wet sauna—doesn’t get much better than that in winter. Also, rates for this (slightly more) accessible location average $100 a night.

Lake Leelanau

If you’re looking for a more comfortable Up North experience, you can rent this stunning Modern Scandinavian cabin deep in the Leelanau Peninsula. It comes with a fully-stocked kitchen, Wi-Fi, central heating, and a soaking tub.

There’s also some hiking trails accessible right behind the property. This three-bedroom cabin recently rents for $169 a night.

A wooden cabin with a porch and stairs leading to the front door.

Au Train

The Pictured Rocks are one of Michigan’s natural wonders. And, if you want to access them in comfort, you can’t go wrong with this hand-built cabin right next to Lake Superior. There’s no TV, but who needs one when there’s a fireplace and wooden board games to help you relax and get a digital detox. You’ll probably be hiking most of the day anyhow.

Rent this little 360-square-foot cabin for $130 a night.