Cabin

Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC

Photo gallery for Historic 'River Cabin' On The 'Holy Waters' Of The AuSable with AC

Terrace/patio
Looking down at River from Cabin
Exterior
looking at our own private channel from cabin
Cabin with fall color

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 441.8 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Grayling, MI
  • Wakeley Bridge Landing
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Wakeley Lake
  • Hartwick Pines State Park
    ‪30 min drive‬

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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Water view

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
default

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

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
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 and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

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. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Grayling, MI

What's nearby

  • Au Sable River - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Wakeley Bridge Landing - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Mason Tract Pathway - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
  • AuSable Artisan Village - 19 min drive - 24.2 km
  • Hartwick Pines State Park - 30 min drive - 23.1 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 74 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Gallagher’s Sports Bar & Grill - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Jim's Canoe Livery - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Camp Biberoni - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Two Track Inn - ‬21 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 23 kg per pet.

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 ?

Checkout 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 away from Huron-Manistee National Forest and Au Sable River. Wakeley Bridge Landing and Mason Tract Pathway are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 82 out of 84 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 84 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 84 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 84 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 84 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christopher L.

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

Great Cabin

Wonderful place to stay, clean and comfortable, as advertised.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott J.

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

Great spot

Awesome cabin in a perfect location!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Arianne N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tim S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a wonderful property if you want a peaceful stay! We loved everything about it! It truly is just as described on the listing.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laveta H.

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

Perfect weekend getaway

This isn't our first stay here, or our last! Clean little cabin right on the river with the coziest beds. Kayaked, played games and enjoyed the quiet.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

mschmidt14

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

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

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

Perfect Mothers Day getaway

Absolutely beautiful property and cabin! Not only was the setting great but the cabin was super clean and cozy. Colleen was amazing to work with and a truly wonderful person. Every small detail was addressed for renter convenience. From firewood on site, fire starting materials, hot dog skewers, coffee, etc… everything was organized and ready for use!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mitchell M.

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

Peaceful river retreat

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

10/10 Excellent

Mike K.

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

Great Little Cabin!!

Loved this super cute cabin and its location on the river. Colleen and Dave were great hosts and the setting was super peaceful. Great getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Myron B.

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

Nice!

Cozy, well appointed cabin on a great stretch of the Au Sable River.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kevin M.

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

South Wakely Bridge Road

Colleen and her husband have created a slice of paradise and have been kind enough to share their vision with the world! They thought of every detail making our trip stress free! We will be staying again. I hope other people get to enjoy their River Cabin!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kim J.

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

Pristine Grounds/Cozy Cabin

The property is very well kept. All amenities included. The location overlooking the Ausble River adds to the relaxing experience. The cabin is very clean and the hosts are very friendly and attentive. Close to all tourist attractions. Would definitely recommend this property.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charles C.

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

Vacation

Great hosts, a beautiful location, ideal river access and views! Very clean! We had everything we needed provided in our cabin, from dishes and linens, to utensils and small appliances. It was perfect for our kayaking!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda M E.

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

Jim Wakeley Cabin by the river

What a beautiful place. Cabin was well appointed and extremely clean. A lovely setting where my husband could walk out the door and fish.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim R.

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

Great riverside cabin!!!!

What a great place to getaway!! The cabin inside and outside was the cleanest place we’ve ever stayed. The fire pit was right on the beautiful Ausable River, and they even supply the fire wood and supplies! It’s close to lots of outdoor activities! Dave and Colleen made sure we had everything we needed! It was perfect!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randy H.

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

Anniversary

Kayaker the American Sable, hiked around Wakely Lake, and enjoyed a beautifulsunny afternoon with fire on the shore of the American Sable
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tim R.

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

Great Getaway

Stayed here for my son’s first fly fishing trip. The cabin was clean and in a great location. Close to town and other fishing areas. Colleen and Dave were great hosts. Thanks again!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

DEBBIE B., Waterford

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

Perfect Place Perfect Spot

This Cabin has to be the cleanest place we have ever stayed at in all our years of traveling/vacationing. The hosts Colleen and Dave are Wonderful People. The grounds are meticulous and the river is so peaceful and relaxing. We will definitely return again! Congratulations on a Fabulous Place!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jamie J.

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

Great spot for fishing and outdoor activities

My husband loved this spot on the au sable "holy water" for fly fishing. We brought along our canoe and enjoyed that on the river as well. The cabin is very cute and clean, the grounds are immaculate and we enjoyed sitting outside at the fire pit and picnic table. The hosts are very nice people and I would definitely recommend it.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Schelisa D.

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

Great location

Pleasant
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tom B.

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

A little slice of paradise on the river

This small cabin is quite cute and functional. We really enjoyed our stay here for our 30th Wedding Anniversary. All the walls are done in Knotty Pine tongue & groove planks (my Father would have loved it). There are 2 bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchen/dining area with all the appliances you would need. There is WiFi and a great view of the Au Sable river. Outside there is a fire pit right on the river's edge. We had a great time and would highly recommend it.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dawn E.

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

Great Cabin

This cabin is right on the banks of the Au Sable and Colleen and Dave were great hosts. They too are on the property but it was very private. Ample parking, well stocked with thoughtful items like paper towels, dish soap and coffee filters. Town is approx 10 minutes away with plenty of dining options if you want to go that route. We put our kayaks in at Stephens Bridge and kayaked downriver to the property to take out - a nice run but has some sweepers. Would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ed L.

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

Best place we've ever stayed!

Keep in mind, we are canoeing people. And when we rent, we like to be in a very clean, comfortable, and well appointed place, with everything we need to cook a great meal. We also like to be somewhere we can relax and look out over the water. Well, after renting in many states, the Historic River Cabin, just 3 hours from home, has exactly what we like and need. On the banks of the Au Sable river, a National Wild and Scenic river, yet recreation friendly, the Historic River Cabin has it all. Our hosts, long-time residents of the area, canoeing experts, and generational owners, keep meticulous care of this historic, but perfectly updated treasure, and are always available for their guests. That section of the river is often referred to as the Holy Waters of the Au Sable. Regardless of your beliefs, you will be "blessed" by staying here!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan F.

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

River cabin

The cabin is VERY clean! Everything is so neat and tidy! The kitchen is stocked with good quality pans, dishes and utensils! The bed was comfortable. There is a nice view of the river and a really nice fire pit right by the river. We visited in October and it was a bit chilly to sit outside but in the summer it would be really fun to watch the river traffic go by! We brought our dog and really enjoyed hiking around Wakeley Lake and also hiked at Hartwick Pines. It was very nice meeting Colleen! Her family lives on the property and she answered our questions about hiking and things to do in the area! Thank you Colleen! We had a really nice weekend at your river cabin!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

About the host

Hosted by Colleen Wyss

Host profile image
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