Whitefish River Lodge Fish from the Yard Near Pictured Rocks & Marquette

Riverfront Experience
Whitefish River flows directly through the property — fish just steps from the door.

Prime U.P. Location
Perfectly located between Marquette and Pictured Rocks for exploring waterfalls, Lake Superior, and hiking trails.

Four-Season Adventure
Spring steelhead fishing, summer paddling and hiking, vibrant fall colors, and winter snowshoeing nearby.


Welcome to Bearing North Lodge on the Whitefish River — a four-season riverfront retreat in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Here, the Whitefish River flows right through the property, creating a peaceful setting where you can relax beside the water and enjoy nature just steps from the door. In the spring, anglers can cast a line practically from the yard as the river comes alive with seasonal fishing. Bearing North Lodge is ideally located about 30 miles from both Munising/Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Marquette, making it the perfect home base for exploring waterfalls, hiking trails, Lake Superior beaches, and the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Whether you're visiting for spring fishing, summer adventures, spectacular fall colors, or winter recreation, this lodge offers a relaxing place to return to after a day of exploring.

Location
Bearing North Lodge is situated on the banks of the West Branch of the Whitefish River, just one mile south of Trenary, MI. Centrally located between Munising, Marquette, and Escanaba, the lodge is the perfect base for your Upper Peninsula adventure. Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, Bearing North Lodge offers a unique blend of history, nature, and comfort for an unforgettable stay. Come and experience the charm and beauty of our lodge, where history, nature, and adventure converge to create a one-of-a-kind getaway.

Stunning Natural Beauty
Nestled on the banks of the West Branch of the Whitefish River, our lodge offers guests over half a mile of private river frontage. The river’s dynamic presence changes with the seasons—rushing powerfully in the spring and early summer, then calming to a shallow stream in the summer droughts. This beautiful river is teeming with crayfish and offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly during the April Steelhead migration when large Rainbow Trout journey upriver from Lake Michigan to spawn.

Outdoor Adventures
The lodge serves as a perfect base for numerous outdoor activities. Explore our well-maintained trails, such as the Weir Trail and Grade Trail, which wind along the river and through the forest. These trails are ideal for hiking, fossil hunting at Fossil Cut, and simply enjoying the serene beauty of the area. Guests can also enjoy a game of frisbee golf or horseshoes at “Floyd’s Pits,” located by the river.

Exclusive Amenities
Our recently remodeled lodge combines modern comfort with sustainable practices, using repurposed materials from old buildings on the grounds. Future plans include refurbishing the old cabin near the weir into a trail shelter and picnic area, offering even more ways to enjoy the outdoors. Inside the lodge, guests will find cozy accommodations, a well-equipped kitchen, and inviting common areas perfect for relaxation and socializing.

Local Culture and Events
Bearing North Lodge is centrally located between Munising, Marquette, and Escanaba, making it an ideal base for exploring the Upper Peninsula. The small town of Trenary, just a mile away, is known for its welcoming community and unique events. Don’t miss the Trenary Outhouse Races in February or the 4th of July celebration, both offering a delightful taste of local culture. The Trenary Tavern, a local staple, is perfect for a hearty meal, while the Limestone General Store offers delicious take-out pizza.

Fishing and Wildlife
The Whitefish River is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to the annual Steelhead migration, the river and its tributaries offer excellent Brook Trout and Brown Trout fishing throughout the year. A weir, built by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the mid-1970s, prevents sea lamprey from spawning upriver and is a fascinating feature of the river. Please note that swimming or boating near the weir is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns.

Winter Note: This lodge is not a ride-from-the-door snowmobile property. Snowmobilers will need to trailer to nearby trailheads. Guests choose Bearing North Lodge for its peaceful riverfront setting, private snowshoe trails on the property, proximity to ice caves and cross-country ski trails, and easy access to Marquette Mountain.Snowmobiles and ATVs

We welcome snowmobiles and ATVs at the lodge, with ample parking for trailers in our circular drive. Guests can ride the hayfield, but other trails on the property are not open for riding. Snowmobiles and ATVs are also permitted on county roads, providing easy access to major trails and the Hiawatha National Forest.

Exclusive Hunting and Fishing Packages
Guests of Bearing North Lodge enjoy exclusive, private access to the river from shore for over half a mile on both sides. This means some of the best stream fishing in the U.P. is just steps from your bed. Exclusive hunting packages are also available; please contact us for details.

Historical Charm
Bearing North Lodge, built in 1969 by Floyd and Ida Kallio, is a treasure trove of history and charm. Floyd, a lifelong Trenary resident, infused the lodge with his unique touch, incorporating large wooden beams from the original railroad bridge. The on-site library houses Floyd's memoirs, offering guests a fascinating glimpse into Trenary's vibrant past. Now lovingly owned and operated by Floyd’s daughter, Hope Kallio, the lodge continues to be a warm and inviting retreat.

Events
Bearing North Lodge is the ideal backdrop for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, or any special gathering up to 20 guests. Please reach out to the host prior to booking for an event.

Security cameras located on front of house facing driveway & at door on east side of house.

Bearing North Lodge is professionally managed by Hiawatha’s Hideaway, offering several unique vacation homes in the area.

Fees
6% MI Use tax
1% MI Rm Assessment fee - The State of Michigan requires a 1% Tourism Assessment on short-term rental accommodations under the Michigan Convention and Tourism Marketing Act.

Vrbo currently does not provide a field to collect this state-mandated assessment. For this reason, the 1% Michigan Tourism Assessment may be requested separately after booking.

This fee is required by the State of Michigan and is remitted directly to the state tourism program.
$299 cleaning/admin fee
Event fees for up to 20 guests max please inquire.