innkeeper's blog

In any season, nothing calms the spirit quite like a trek through the great outdoors. But there's something special about experiencing Oscoda's natural landmarks in the frosty white winter. With panoramic views of the majestic AuSable River, these two stops on the River Road Scenic Byway each provide a unique sense of peace in the chill of winter.

For couples who enjoy finding adventure together in the great outdoors, northern Michigan's snowy landscapes offer plenty of options for active outdoor dates. There's winter fun abound on world-class groomed trails within minutes from our lakeside getaway – from hiking and snowshoeing to cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. But if you want to experience a Michigan winter on wheels, fat biking is not to be missed!

Along a relaxing 45-minute drive north, escape to some of the best fall colors our area has to offer to reach the charming town of Alpena.

Beginning September 15^th and through October 15^th, take a scenic Fall Color Tour aboard one of Oscoda’s top attractions, the Au Sable River Queen. For more than fifty years, this unique paddlewheel riverboat, the only one of its kind in northern Michigan, has introduced visitors to the beauty of Oscoda and its picturesque Au Sable River.

In Japan, they practice “forest bathing” or shinrin-yoku (shinrin means “forest” and yoku means “bath.”) This is not hiking, jogging or taking photographs. Rather it’s the meditative and considered practice of taking in the forest through all of your senses. If you haven’t heard of forest bathing, read this article from Time magazine that defines what it is and how to do it.