Shady Crest is a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Northern Michigan. Shady Crest is located seven miles south of Traverse City on the southern end of the Arbutus Lake chain. This chain of five lakes is one of Northern Michigan's most naturally beautiful areas. Each season offers many opportunites for relaxation and fun. The cottages at Shady Crest are built on a hillside that overlooks Arbutus Lake. They are spaced far enough apart to allow for privacy. The first cottage was build in the 1920's and others have been constructed since that time. While the cottages have been continuously updated and maintained, the rustic, atmosphere is still present.
Our cottages include everything you will need to make Shady Crest Resort your home away from home. Kitchens are completely equipped with a gas stove, microwave, refrigerator, automatic coffee maker, and toaster. Dishes, pots and pans, glasses, silverware and cooking utensils are also provided. Most cottages have a double sofa sleeper, and all have cable television. Bathrooms have full showers or bathtubs. There are extra blankets if needed. Guests need to bring their own bed linens, towels and paper products. Portable cribs and highchairs are also available for the littlest family members.
SUMMER: An aluminum rowboat is included with each cottage. Enjoy our beautiful, safe, and sandy beach with plenty of sun or shade. A large main dock with three arteries line the swimming area and floating tra-mpoline raft. Settle back at our fire-pit with built in benches just off the beach for your evening enjoyment. The following activities are available: horse shoes, a playground for the little ones, a laundry facility and plenty of room to roam. Motors and pontoon boat are available to rent. Docking space is available to park your own boat as well. Shopping, dining, live theatre and entertainment are nearby in Traverse City. Enjoy an evening of music at Interlochen.
FALL: Shady Crest Resort is the perfect spot for deer camp, halloween parties, or just playing in the leaves. Our cottages are heated by gas furnaces. Spectacular fall colors make this area a lovers paradise and fantastic inspiration for artists & photographers.
WINTER: Snowmobile, snowshoe or cross country ski from your cottage door to nearby trails. Downhill ski areas are also close by including Crystal Mountain, Holiday Hills and Hickory Hills. Ice skating and sledding are always a lot of family fun. After a day playing in the snow you can enjoy hot chocolate and warm your toes by the outside firepits. Ice fishing on Arbutus Lake offers a chance to catch the big one or to catch up on some much needed relaxation.
SPRING: Jump into spring with some great fishing right here on Arbutus Lake. Enjoy a spring picnic or test your Trout fishing skills nearby on the Boardman River. If you are a mushroom hunting enthusiast you have picked the right spot.
FAMILY REUNIONS: Rent the whole resort for your next special occasion. Shady Crest Resort is perfect for that next family gathering or private party. We consider this our specialty, call and ask us for refrences.
Checkout additional cottages available on Spider Lake under the same ownership. Go to www.moonlightbayresort.com