Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private - Grand Traverse County

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Cabin

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6172 sq m

Popular amenities

Washer

Barbecue grill

Pet-friendly

Outdoor space

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Check-in time

4:00 PM

Check-out time

10:30 AM

Explore the area

Traverse City, MI

Spider Lake17 min drive
Traverse City Beach17 min drive
Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)25 min drive
Front Street27 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Main Cabin

1 Double Futon and 2 Single Beds

Riverside Bedroom - Private

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Separate dining area

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private

Shadowland River Lodge is located approx. 12 miles South East of downtown Traverse City. It is nestled on 33 acres of private land with 650 feet of frontage along the Boardman River. The original log home structure was built in 1929 and in later years added on to including a kitchen, dining area, full bathroom, walk-in closet, utility room, and a riverside main bedroom.

Shadowland River Lodge currently sleeps up to 6 guests with a queen bed in the one “ conventional “ bedroom with direct river views. (red bedspread) A set of “twin” size bunk beds are in the main room (red checkered) of the cabin structure along with a “double” size futon. (Cream w/ multi-color stripes)

The property has become a retreat for those looking to be a little off the beaten path of the busy hustle and bustle of Traverse City. Step back in time and enjoy the privacy and sense of nature that envelops this log home along the Boardman River. Also enjoy endless amounts of free firewood for use inside and out!

We are dog friendly - this means all dogs! (Sorry, we only allow dogs, no cats, etc.) There is no size limit. We love to have guests experience Shadowland River Lodge with their K9 family members! We see no need to charge a pet fee, so there isn’t one!

** 2021 UPDATE! Shadowland River Lodge now has A/C!
** 2022 UPDATE! Custom LARGE picnic table near fire pit!
** 2022 UPDATE! New High Efficiency propane boiler heating!
** 2023 UPDATE! New Kucht gas range now in kitchen!
** 2023 UPDATE! Custom LARGE picnic table on back porch! ** 2024 UPDATE! Kitchen is complete walls-in remodel. Walls, cabinets, granite countertops, etc!

VRBO is the “Only” website that we advertise on - we do not post Shadowland River Lodge on craigslist, or any third-party site, not organically populated by VRBO itself.

Property manager

Jason & Nicole Hulet

Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Traverse City Vacation Rental Cabin | 2BR + Loft | 1BA | 1,412 Sq Ft

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Kitchen

Pet-friendly

Air conditioning

Barbecue grill

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 10:30 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 4 total)

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

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 deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Traverse City

Located in Traverse City, this cabin is on the waterfront. Mt. Holiday Ski Area and Centre Ice Arena are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Flintfields Horse Park and Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Traverse City, MI

What's nearby

Turtle Creek Casino - 16 min drive
Spider Lake - 17 min drive
Traverse City Beach - 17 min drive
Traverse City State Park - 23 min drive
Front Street - 27 min drive

Getting around

Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

‪Peegeo's - ‬18 min drive
‪Yankee Boy Restaurant - ‬13 min drive
‪VASA Singletrack Trailhead - ‬12 min drive
‪Lake George Electric - ‬23 min drive
‪Marni's Cheesecake - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 4 total).

What time is check-in at Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private ?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Forest Lakes and within 6 miles (10 km) of Sand Lakes Quiet Area and Rennie Lake. Spider Lake and Tibbets Lake are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Tamara M.

4 July 2024

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

Gorgeous Lodge on the River

This was our family’s third time at Shadowlands and we love it there! The hosts were so kind to squeeze us in over the 4th of July week and it was just what we needed. The surroundings are stunning and even though it feels worlds away, it’s a quick and pleasant drive into TC. We absolutely love the huge indoor fireplace on a cool evening. The place has such a wonderful, warm ambiance with the string lights. We can’t wait to come back! Thank you, Jason and Nicole!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Benito

1 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

This piece is great to enjoy and relax inside and outside, sit by the river and the fire pit play horse shoe lay in the hammock and many other things.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

1 June 2024

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

A wonderful get away!

My husband and I were looking for a quiet get-away with our Golden Retreiver to celebrate 40 years of marriage. We were greeted upon our arrival by Jason (the owner) to show us around the place. Jason was very thorough and even left us a bottle of chilled wine to celebrate our 40th. The cabin along the shallow river was perfect for us to unwind to settle in and enjoy nature. Everything was considered and the place was very clean and well equipped. The cabin itself is beautiful and cozy. Our dog loved the river and we loved watching him enjoy himself. Thank you Jason (and Nicole) for sharing your lovely place.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen K.

14 May 2024

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

Relaxing

A beautiful cabin, such a relaxing peaceful place. Plenty of items present to make your stay memorable. Would definitely stay again.

Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Abbas K.

26 Apr 2024

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

Favorite place

Beautiful perfect peaceful fun and everything in between.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eric B., St Charles

30 Mar 2024

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

Wonderful cottage and property

We had another terrific time at Shadowland. The cottage is cozy, clean and has a classic up north charm and feel. Jason and Nicole have thought of everything to make our stay comfortable. The fireplace was loaded with wood ready for our first fire when we arrived. They also were quick to answer any question we had prior to our stay. The property is beautiful and secluded. We loved having fires in the fire pit while listening to and exploring the river. We loved the seclusion yet also enjoyed being only 20 minutes to Traverse City. We definitely will be back.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff W.

21 Jan 2024

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

Perfect

The host met us, had a fire set to be lit, showed us the place. Truly a comfy, beautiful setting. Kitchen had everything we needed. Nice big shower, comfortable bed. Many books, games and puzzles. Very warm and relaxing. Couple of excellent blue tooth speakers! Only problem....do we watch the fire or the river? One of the best places we've stayed.

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew C.

7 Jan 2024

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

Perfect getaway!

This was our fourth stay at Shadowland, and it was once again a wonderful experience! Jason and Nicole are always gracious hosts, and the property is perfect. The cabin is secluded in the wood, but only 20 to 25 minutes from downtown Traverse City. The property affords many outdoor activities and areas to decompress and listen to the river. Our family can’t wait to go back!

Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

20 Oct 2023

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

The Best Fall Getaway!

This was my third year in a row staying at Shadowland River Lodge and somehow, it just gets better every year! The property is so beautiful and relaxing and you just feel your stress melt away as soon as you arrive. Plus there are so many fun things to do in the area with the wine peninsulas and great restaurants. Jason and Nicole are the best hosts and just make the experience all the better. Already looking forward to my visit next Fall

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tamara M.

10 Oct 2023

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

Peaceful retreat

This was our second stay at Shadowland. We love the tranquil setting and classic cabin feel. We really enjoyed relaxing by the huge fire as autumn descended this week. Jason is so responsive but we really had everything we needed for a fun, relaxing weekend away. Thanks for another wonderful stay!

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

lyssa a.

3 Oct 2023

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

Relaxing

Its always relaxing and a pleasure to stay at Jason and Nicole's property. Being able to let our toddler and dogs run safely makes us very happy. There is no stress with Jason and Nicole. Thanks again and see you for year 3! Appreciative, Rob, Lyssa, toddler B, and pups

Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gina S., Flat Rock, MI

2 Oct 2023

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

Our Favorite Vrbo Stay

Our overall experience at Shadowland River Lodge was perfect. I can’t say enough good things about this vrbo stay—the log cabin is amazing and the hosts were very warm, welcoming and responsive. First, we were really impressed with how well the grounds are kept. Several Adirondack chairs and picnic tables are tastefully placed throughout the property, giving it a true resort feel. Then the log cabin itself—it is a gem, beautifully decorated with comfortable leather furniture and a large television with access to Netflix & Prime—it’s all there without an extra fee. Everything, inside and out, is clean. Good Wi-Fi. Good beds. And a gorgeous, huge fireplace. My fisherman husband, dog, grandson and I had a blast. It’s so relaxing and beautiful here and we just wanted to stay forever! We also really appreciated and thank the hosts for the many thoughtful touches never before experienced in a vrbo rental—wood set in the fire pit for a bonfire with extra wood nearby, a sign in the cabin welcomed us, a bottle of wine with 2 chilled glasses placed in the fridge, and a very unexpected touch—no checkout instructions. Just like in a hotel, we could simply leave and lock the door behind us without having a list of cleanup chores. Our time spent at this riverside cabin was our favorite vrbo stay. We were so happy with our decision to stay here and will absolutely return! Thank you so much to Jason and Nicole for sharing this magical retreat!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

steve p.

23 Sept 2023

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

Should Be In A Magazine

The best thing is the 100 foot pines.Beautiful property. Well manicured large area including river.The cabin is wonderful and authentic and styled to feel like the 1930’s while providing every modern comfort. We had a great time there. Almost perfect except for a little road noise. We are very glad we stayed there.

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jessica D.

6 Sept 2023

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

Very Relaxing, Cute Cabin

Upon arrival Jason was very welcoming. He showed us ins and outs of the cabin and made sure we had everything we needed. We spent the week doing puzzles and enjoying the river. The location is about a 13 minute drive from downtown TC. The best part about the cabin was that they let us bring our dog. She loved going in the river and chasing frogs. This was really her vacation. Kitchen was fully stocked! We had all the tools to make homemade pizzas and breakfast burritos. We would love to visit again.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela A.

31 Aug 2023

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

Working vacation

Had to come up to Traverse City for work and wanted a place to stay with my dogs. This was absolutely perfect - river for my dog to play in and solid wifi for me to work. Great yard, great cabin with everything you need. Jason and Nicole were awesome. They met me at the cabin, showed me around, and explained how everything worked. The only downside is that the cabin is close to a busy road and the traffic noise can be a bit distracting. All in all, great stay and I would definitely rent again!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

michalene n.

27 Aug 2023

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

Beautiful,one of a kind authentic log cabin stay!

This property has to be one of the most unique well cared for properties I have ever stayed at. The owners have thought of every single need. They take meticulous care of every detail! WE will be back again.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sara B.

20 Aug 2023

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

Amazing Cabin Vacation

We spent 8 days and it was amazing. The cabin is cozy and clean and just a perfect family setting. The kitchen has everything I needed to make breakfast. The grill was perfect for when we didn’t want to go out for a meal. The fire pit was perfect for s’mores and keeping us warm while we stayed up late to stargaze. And my favorite part was drinking my coffee in the morning while sitting next to the river. Our vacation was in August and I would return in summer and would to love to experience other seasons as well. Jason and Nicole were the best hosts you could ask for without question. This was everything I hoped it would be. My husband and 2 kids were thrilled.

Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Liz H.

18 Aug 2023

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

Amazing Hosts and Property

Jason and Nicole are the best hosts we have ever worked with. They were super flexible and accommodating of our family's needs. We have stayed in several VRBOs throughout the years and they definitely go above and beyond to make sure you enjoy your stay. The cabin and the property are incredible. I am not sure who enjoyed it more the humans or our dog, She loved it all! The cabin has everything you need and the property is beautiful. The location is great as you can get to Traverse City and surrounding areas pretty easily and relatively quickly. We hope to make it back there one day!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carrie T.

5 Aug 2023

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

Charming Property

Second time at this property and it is one of our favorites. It has everything that we need. It is a secluded oasis yet and conveniently located to Traverse area. Jason and Nicole are great hosts.

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara S.

31 July 2023

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

Magical

We had a wonderful time at Shadowland River Lodge. It was truly magical. The Lodge is wonderful and has such character - beautiful and comfortable. The property is out of a book - we had morning coffee by the river, fires every night, and walks every day with our dog, who loved the river. We saw deer, chipmunks, hummingbirds, and frogs, and felt so peaceful. It was wonderful exploring Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes, but having the quiet of the Lodge. Nicole and Jason were wonderful hosts,

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heather B.

21 July 2023

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

Wonderful family vacation

We had an amazing time here on family vacation! Very clean, spacious cabin close to traverse city.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brant & Christian W., Kansas City, USA

18 July 2023

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

Cozy Getaway

We LOVED Shadowland River Lodge! It was our first time staying in Traverse City and the cabin was so close to many places we visited throughout our week there. It is the perfect place to come “home” to after a busy day of exploring. Total peace and relaxation while you are on the property, whether it be sitting near the riverside, making a fire in the fire pit, or letting the cool Michigan breeze brush your face as you lay on the hammock. Jason & Nicole have the perfect place for a family vacation - cabin is stocked with everything you need from kitchen & bathroom items to games and puzzles. Our daughters and pup loved the place too! It is so clean, you would wouldn’t think they allow pets! Highly recommend!!! We will be back again to visit for sure! Thank you for sharing your beautiful place!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christina N.

9 July 2023

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

Little Gem on the River

Jason and Nicole have a wonderful cabin right on the river. We enjoyed our stay over the 4th of July week and the Traverse City fireworks were amazing. About a 15 minute drive into town, cabin had everything we needed. Really picture perfect setting. Very clean and beds were comfortable. Went tubing thru Ranch Rudolf right up the road. Lots to do in the area. Highly recommended!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jan P.

2 July 2023

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

Peaceful River Retreat

Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Shadowland cabin. It was a rustic, vintage cabin with all of the modern amenities. Plenty of room and was extremely well stocked. We lazied on the river and enjoyed family campfires along with shopping and dining in traverse city which was a short drive away. Our hosts, Nicole and Jason, made sure we understood all of the ins and outs of the cabin so that we could start enjoying it! And when an unexpected accident happened (away from the cabin) and required a family member be hospitalized they were so accommodating and allowed us to stay an additional night to regroup. That was above and beyond, and our family is so grateful for their compassion. All in all it was a relaxing, fun family vacation! Thank you!

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nancy H.

2 July 2023

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

Perfect family vacation

Wow!! We wanted a family vacation where we could take our dog with us. Shadowland did not disappoint. Jason was kind enough to set up a kennel for our dog. He met us at the cabin when we arrived and showed us around. The cabin was beautifully decorated. We spent so much time looking around enjoying all there was to see. The scenery outside was breathtaking and the creek was everyone’s favorite. Arlo and the kids spent hours catching frogs and playing in the water. The basketball hoop and hammock was also a family favorite. We had a fire pit every night. The cabin was stocked with everything you would need and more. We will be staying here again when we come back to Michigan. Thank you.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

About the host

Hosted by Jason & Nicole Hulet

Nicole and I met in grade school and married in 1991 here in Traverse City. Settling down first in Leelanau County before moving into Traverse City. Nicole has been a local REALTOR® for over 25 years and with Coldwell Banker Schmidt for most of those years. She also obtained her bachelors degree from Ferris State University. She has been immersed in the Vacation Rental Management industry since her earliest of years in Glen Arbor, MI - then working for her parents at Harris Properties, Inc. She sat on the board of VRMA (Vacation Rental Management Association) in the mid 1990s. I myself earned an Associates Degree from Northwestern Michigan College and started a career in Criminal Justice in 1992 with the Leelanau County Sheriff's office up until resigning in 2005 to pursue my own local Vacation Rental Company, "Traverse City Condo Rentals, LLC.", which I still operate today. We have two daughters, Ashley and Emily, now both graduated from High School. Ashley is a recent 2019 graduate from Michigan State University (bio-medical) while Emily is in her 2nd year at Lansing Community College exploring her opportunities.

Why they chose this property

Shadowland River Lodge is a place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city life and by that, I'm even starting to consider Traverse City - "City Life." Leave the traffic and congestion behind and find yourself on 33 acres - to yourself.