Peaceful Riverfront Retreat. Fall Color, Fishing, Kayaks, Fire Pit. Dogs Welcome

Welcome to The Willows, a peaceful Platte River retreat with an expansive backyard, direct river access and plenty of room for families, friends and dogs to enjoy Northern Michigan together.

Tucked along a quiet private road beneath mature willow trees, the property feels wonderfully secluded while remaining convenient to Crystal Mountain, Lake Michigan beaches, Sleeping Bear Dunes and the towns of Beulah, Frankfort and Honor.

THE RIVERFRONT SETTING

More than 100 feet ofPlatte River frontage runs along the backyard, creating a beautiful place to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Start the morning with coffee on the riverside deck, listen to the water and birds from the large main deck, or relax beneath the trees while watching the river go by.

During typical summer conditions, the water near the property is often approximately 18 inches to 2.5 feet deep. Guests enjoy watching ducks and other wildlife, casting a line and occasionally cooling off with a refreshing dip.

The expansive backyard offers plenty of room for outdoor games, dogs and family time without everyone feeling crowded. Guests can paddle the river in the two provided kayaks, play cornhole, prepare dinner on the gas grill or gather around the fire pit with a complimentary starter bundle of firewood and roasting sticks.

A popular paddling route begins at nearby Veterans Park and follows the river back to the property. Additional instructions and local recommendations are provided inside the home.

A HOME COMFORTABLY DESIGNED FOR SIX

The Willows is thoughtfully designed and fully equipped to comfortably accommodate up to six guests. The home includes three private bedrooms—one king and two queens—with blackout curtains and convenient phone chargers. Two full bathrooms make mornings easier, while multiple living spaces allow everyone to spread out and enjoy different activities. Remote workers and teenagers will appreciate the dependable, fast Wi-Fi, and a Pack ’n Play is provided for families traveling with an infant.


The enclosed sunroom is a favorite place to read, watch television, talk or simply enjoy the river view. A sliding door connects the sunroom directly to the deck, making it easy to move between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Guests consistently mention the home’s exceptional cleanliness, comfortable beds and pillows, spacious layout and thoughtful organization. Central heating and air conditioning keep the house comfortable throughout the year.

THOUGHTFULLY EQUIPPED

The kitchen includes quality KitchenAid ceramic cookware, dishes, glassware and the essentials needed to prepare meals. Clearly labeled cabinets and drawers make everything easy to find.

Coffee and tea, starter household supplies, bath towels, beach towels, shampoo, conditioner and body wash are provided. The house also offers plenty of storage for groceries, luggage and vacation gear, allowing guests to unpack and settle in comfortably.

DOGS ARE GENUINELY WELCOME

The Willows is designed to make traveling with dogs easier. Dog bowls, towels, a long lead and cleanup supplies are provided. The expansive backyard gives dogs and their people room to enjoy the peaceful riverfront setting together.

Dogs are welcome with a $150 pet fee per stay. Please review the pet rules before booking.

A YEAR-ROUND NORTHERN MICHIGAN HOME BASE

In summer, spend the day paddling the Platte River, visiting Lake Michigan beaches or exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes. Fall brings beautiful color, hiking, brewery visits and cool evenings around the fire.

Crystal Mountain Resort is approximately 10 minutes away and offers skiing, snowboarding, golf, spa visits and year-round events. Traverse City also makes an enjoyable day trip for dining, shopping and entertainment.

Whether you are gathering with family, reconnecting with friends or looking for a quiet place to recharge, The Willows offers the privacy of a riverside escape with easy access to the very best of Northern Michigan.

Please remember that the Platte is a natural river. Water depth, current, fishing and paddling conditions vary with weather and season. Children and pets should always be supervised near the water.

We can’t wait to welcome you to The Willows!