This cabin places you within a 15-minute drive of Hanson Hills Recreation Area and AuSable Artisan Village. The cabin includes a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
The blissful surroundings capture the essence- Elysian-In the northwestern lower peninsula. The Manistee River hosts this classic cottage where the trails and fly-fishing opportunities are endless. Lying in the hammock overlooking the river allows your soul to connect with nature.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Air Conditioning: There is no A/C at this property.
ATV's: ATV's not not permitted to be used on the property, but South Blue Bear Trail is located 1 to 2 miles east off of M-72! There is a parking area right at the beginning of the trail off of M-72.
Animals: Fox, coyote, squirrels, bear, and eagles are native to the area.
Bathrooms: Main Level: Full bath with shower and tub. Upper Level: Full bath with shower.
Beach/Swimming: This property does not have a typical beachfront, and is best suited for wading in to fly-fish. The best area for sandy beach swimming is Bear Lake in Kalkaska County. It is 7 miles (8 minute drive) from property.
Bedroom Configurations: Master Bedroom: King Bed Bedroom #2: Queen Bed
Boats: Boats are not provided at this property, but guests are welcome to bring their own or rent a one! Please note, this property does not have a dock, so kayaks and canoes are best suited. Shel- Haven Canoe/Kayak Livery is located 3 minutes away for rentals! If you wish to kayak or canoe down the Au Sable River, check out Ray's Canoe & Fly Factory! If you do wish to bring a trailerable boat, Lake Margrethe and Bear Lake are minutes away!
Bugs: Mosquitoes are common in the summer time.
Cable: Yes! This property is serviced by Charter for cable.
Cell Phone Service: All major cell services providers should work in this area, but WiFi calling is recommended
Coffee Maker: 2 drip coffee makers are available at the property, filters, assorted creamers and sugar are provided.
Distances: * Detroit: 3 hours (212 miles) * Grand Rapids: 2 hours and 18 min. (153 miles) * Lansing: 2 hours and 15 minutes (151 miles) * Mackinac Bridge: 1 hours and 30 min.(90 miles) * Shel-Haven Canoe/Kayak Livery on M-72 is 3 minutes (1 mile) * Traverse City: 1 hours away (44 miles)
Dock: There is no dock at this property. There is a scenic deck behind cottage, on the river side with a patio table and chairs to sit and take in the beauty of the river. There are also stairs to wade into the Manistee River for those wanting to fly fish.
Drinking Water: Well water is used at this property. Some guests may want to bring bottled water for their stay.
Drugs/Smoking/Fireworks: Freshwater does not permit illegal drugs of any kind on the property. Due to the location of the properties, smoking is strongly discouraged around the home and strictly prohibited in the home. Fireworks are prohibited at a Freshwater location for the safety of all persons in and around the property, even if it is legal in that city.
Fireplace: The fireplace is currently out of service.
Fire-pit: There is a chimenea. Please be vigilant with fires, this area is heavily wooded with pine trees.
Fishing: Fly fishing is the only fishing allowed on the property. If you wish to fish in a lake, Lake Margrethe, Bear Lake, and Otsego Lake have a variety of fish, including trout, bass, perch, and walleye. Hanson Hills - 9 min drive west off of M72 has a child's fishing pond (catch and release).
Fishing License: A license is required in order to fish in Michigan.
Fishing Poles: Bring your poles, this property does not provide fishing gear.
Golf: Grayling Country Club - 14 minutes (8.8 miles) Fox Run Country Club - 17 minutes (13.1 miles) Black Bear Golf Club - 46 minutes (46.6 miles)
Grill: There are 2 grills provided, one is propane and the other is a Weber charcoal grill. Both are located in the garage. A spare propane tank is provided, however you will need to provide charcoal and lighter fluid for the charcoal grill.
Grocery Store: Family Fare Supermarket is 14 minutes away (8.6 miles), it is located on I-75 Business almost as soon as you exit I-75 for I-75 Bus. There is also a Save-A-Lot right across the street from Family Fare.
Handicap Friendly: This property is not handicap friendly
Heat: Boiler system with baseboard heating.
Hiking/Bicycle Trails: There are many hiking and bicycle trails near this cottage, including the Grayling Bicycle Turnpike which takes you to Hartwick Pines and is highly rated. Hanson Hills off of M-72 has miles of mountain bike trails.
Hunting: Not permitted on the property. Please follow all state and local guidelines.
Internet: There is internet at this property with the capability of streaming.
Linens: Yes, we provide your sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. We have just the basic sheets, pillows, pillowcases, and bath towels.
Parking: 2 vehicles can fit in the drive way, with one additional spot in the garage.
Pets: Pets are not allowed at this property.
Privacy: There are neighbors on both sides.
Space: A-frame style home.
Seniors: Seniors are welcome, but please be aware that there are front steps, a staircase to access the bedrooms, and steps down to the waterfront.
Televisions: There is a 32" TV with cable at the property
Towels: All bath and kitchen towels will be provided during your stay. This cottage also provides Beach towels in case you forget yours!
Washer and Dryer: Yes! There is a washer and dryer for guest use, detergent is provided.
Wood: Please bring firewood for your stay
Favorite local attractions
Hartwick Pines State Park- 4.8/5 Stars 3612 State Park Drive Grayling, 49738 989-348-7068 This is the largest State Park in lower Michigan. Offers historical logging museum, acres of pine forestry, the famous Kirtland Warblers, freshwater paddling, hiking, mountain biking, hunting.
In town-
Goodale's Bakery and Deli- 4.7/5 Stars 500 Norway St. Grayling, 49738 989-348-8682 Fresh, delish baked goods, donuts- all kinds, fudge and some ready-made lunches, pasties, gluten free offerings.
Paddle Hard Brewing- 4.6/5 Stars 227 Michigan Ave. Grayling, 49738 989-745-6388 House made and regional craft beers, hard ciders, upscale food, outside and inside dining. Right downtown near art/jewelry/craft stores.
Our sister city to the North Gaylord - (I75 N, 30 minutes drive)- Gaylord is a larger city with chain stores like Lowes, Home Depot, Target and restaurants like Olive Garden.
Bennethum's Northern Inn- 4.7/5 Stars 3917 Old 27 North South Gaylord, 49735 989-732-9288 Long time gourmet dining establishment - Offers classic steaks, sea food, appetizers, diverse menu.
The cabin is heated and features a kitchen and 2 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a phone.
Similar properties
Winter Escape ❄️ 3 Bedroom Cabin on the upper AuSable River
Winter Escape ❄️ 3 Bedroom Cabin on the upper AuSable River
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
Unit size: 1,400 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector.
Property is also known as
582917
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do near this cabin?
This cabin is located in Grayling, close to Hanson Hills Recreation Area.
Is parking available on site at this cabin?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this cabin adjacent to a casino?
No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cabin?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cabin.
Is Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await! good for couples?
Couples staying at this riverfront cabin will appreciate amenities such as a kitchen in each cabin with kitchens in some.
Does Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await! have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this cabin.
Does this cabin provide breakfast?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cabin allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this cabin.
Does this cabin have connecting rooms?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cabin.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await!?
No, there aren't any cabins with balconies at Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await!.
Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await! Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 15 reviews
10 - Excellent
14
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 15 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Larry P.
Oct 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very clean
Larry P.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Evan D.
Sep 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Deceptively large place with everything you need and access to the river for fly fishing. Very big rooms but cozy and tucked in a cute riverside community of houses off the beaten path (respectful and friendly neighbors).
Evan D.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Chuck H.
Sep 1, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The cabin was great, had everything we needed, super close to the water, great fishing, nice neighbors... will definitely return one day.
Chuck H.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kathleen S.
Aug 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Just like the pictures!Super beautiful and CLEAN.1 hour from Traverse City and Petoskey! If you even wanted to leave!Supplied with everything you need, even paper plates for your picnics!
Just what we were looking for. Quiet getaway - very peaceful with beautiful view of the river. First time staying in Grayling - was a great place to visit and would for sure recommend Goodall's Bakery if you stay here!
Bryan K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Will B.
Jul 7, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Fun escape for the 4th of July
My buddies and I try and get together every summer to enjoy the 4th of July and overall just escape from the everyday world. This place was a blast from the past! Super beautiful cabin and the feel was very relaxing.
Will B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
mark j.
Jun 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very clean and comfortable. Nice view of the river.
mark j.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lena
Sep 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Get Away at Elysian River Escape
As soon as we walked in the door there was a comfy cozy welcoming feeling. There was everything we needed for our stay. The home was clean and roomy for the four of us. We loved going down and sitting on the deck watching the flow of the river and the ducks passing by. It was home away from home!
Lena
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Greg S.
Aug 13, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great River Property
Very well furnished house right on the river. Spacious house with all the amenities we desired. Close to all of our northern activities. Quiet and relaxing with plenty of wildlife. Loved our stay!
Greg S.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Cathy M.
Jul 24, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing, Refreshing and Rejuvenating
Elysian River Escape was a relaxing, refreshing and rejuvenating escape for my husband and I.My husband and I were in the area to visit our son and daughter-in-law. We enjoyed kayaking on both the AuSable and Manistee River, and riding over 100 miles of trails on our Ranger.
The home was clean, well stocked and nicely decorated. The decor reminded me of my childhood home, which made our stay even more special.
Most of all we loved beginning and ending each day sitting on the dock watching ducks, geese and a Great Blue Heron.
I would definitely come back again.
Cathy M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jamie L.
Jul 8, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Father & Son fishing
Beautiful property right on the river with great trout fishing and very clean cabin. Will be here again for our next fishing trip.