Pinecrest Northwoods

I recently had the pleasure of staying at the most beautiful cabin and resort in the Upper Peninsula for a little collaboration on a video project I’m working on… and can I just say, omg, this place is DREAMY. Located in Republic, Michigan… about 45 minutes west of Marquette, is Pinecrest Northwoods Lodging & Events. It’s a wilderness retreat with unique cabins of all sizes, glampsites and rustic campsites. They have over 100 acres of trails, an authentic Finnish sauna, and access to the Michigamme River and Juncob Lake. It’s quietly tucked back into the most gorgeous outdoor setting, the cabin I stayed in was… the most picturesque place I’ve probably ever stayed, and I already cannot wait to go back someday.

Stay in The Cedar Cabin

I stayed in The Cedar Cabin, which is a 100-year-old hand hewn log cabin, that’s perched up on a bluff that looks out over Juncob Lake on one side, and the Michigamme River on the other. It’s very accessible with parking and other cabins nearby, and is so wonderfully cozy, and literally straight out of something you’d see on Pinterest. Madeline and Michael, owners of the resort, have the most… beautiful eye for aesthetics, and welcoming vibes… you’ll never want to leave. Especially after you cozy up inside by the wood burning fireplace. It’s magical! This cabin has a living room area with a dining table, a quaint kitchen, bathroom, and stunning bedroom (that gallery wall, though!) and has a back entrance with a little porch to enjoy morning coffee.

Inside the cabin, they have plenty of books to read, and you can ask for board games, yard games, and other toys that are available, along with free WiFi that’s available throughout the resort. There’s a mini fridge, a small stove-top, coffee-maker, and tea kettle. I packed some easy items to eat like sandwiches, cinnamon rolls and s’mores to make over the fire. Off the back entrance of the cabin, there’s a small system of trails that you can take on a short hike along the Michigamme River. And the bed is so cozy, I loved an afternoon nap here, reading in bed, and having the breeze come through the windows. Just… such a cozy, and relaxing stay. So so quiet and serene.

If you walk down the hill just steps from the cabin, you can take in the views of Juncob Lake on their dock, curl up in a blanket, sit by the fire, read, gather firewood, roast s’mores, and just breathe. It’s the kind of quiet you can only get in a place like this, the crackle of the fire, the rustling of the leaves and trees, and time just slows down. I love noticing the small details… like the reflection of the trees in the water, the overcast golden hour peeking through, the smell of woodsmoke, just… simple, peaceful and everything you’d hope for in a Northwoods escape.

Enjoy a morning hike

In the morning, I woke up and enjoyed some coffee (with pumpkin creamer!) on the porch, and heated up a cinnamon roll I had bought along the way from Huron Mountain Bakery. Just sitting outside, watching the leaves fall and blow in the wind, was so relaxing. Afterwards, I got dressed and layered up to go out for a small hike along the Michigamme River. Colorful leaves, a little stroll on another dock, fall vibes at their finest. I only took a short walk, but you can easily take a much longer hike, as they have 100+ acres of wilderness on their trails.

Boat on the Juncob Lake

Another lovely perk of this resort is your access to Juncob Lake, not only with the views from the cabin/resort, but also… with plenty of boats, kayaks, and beach toys available to use. They have lifejackets, paddles, and everything you could need. Plus, the cutest little boathouse, where I was easily able to walk out on the dock, and take this cutie boat out for a swirl on the lake, to take in some views and just enjoy a quiet afternoon. You can fish if you’d like, or just… enjoy a beautiful boat ride. Or! When it’s a bit warmer in the summer months, you can take a dip in the lake too. I opted for cozy layers during this autumn stay, but I can just imagine how the vibes would be different in the summer, winter and spring months. A truly seasonal resort.

Enjoy the authentic Finnish sauna

They also have a stunning 100-year-old authentic Finnish sauna, which is a huge long-standing tradition and luxury in the Upper Peninsula. There’s a cozy separate cabin/space for the sauna, you’ll walk into a small sitting area with books, chairs, and a view of the lake. And as you make your way into the sauna, you’ll find another cozy sitting area with a shower and bathtub, fresh towels, and their sauna. Saunas are a part of life up here… a way to warm up after a day outdoors, unwind and reset. Beyond the tradition, saunas are incredibly good for you… boosting circulation, easing sore muscles, and helps you unwind after a long, chilly day of exploring the outdoors.

If you ever have the opportunity to stay here, I couldn’t recommend it enough. Again, such a beautiful location, setting, and resort. The owners are so kind and accommodating, eager to help you enjoy your stay as much as possible. They also host events, weddings, and it’s the perfect spot for… a group of friends or family to book to enjoy being together in the outdoors, in any season. I’d love to come back and experience this place in winter and summer. Thank you, Madi & Mike, for a beautiful stay… and stay tuned for some video content coming your way on social media as well! 🍂