The Kingfisher Lodge
The Kingfisher Lodge House Manual
Welcome to The Kingfisher Lodge. This guide covers the basics you’ll need while you’re here — how to use and enjoy the lodge, a few things that matter to us, outdoor and safety information, local recommendations, checkout, and where to turn if you need help.
WELCOME / QUICK START
WI-FI
Network: KINGFISHER
Password: password
CELL PHONES
Service can be very limited around the property depending on your carrier, with AT&T generally working better than Verizon. Once you’re connected to Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi calling usually works well. For directions, we recommend using Google Maps and downloading the area for offline use before you arrive so navigation still works if cell service drops out.
HEATING & COOLING
For A/C, use the square black thermostats in each room. Tap the power button and adjust the temperature with the arrows. In the winter, use the round wall thermostats located on each floor for heat.
SERVICE VISIT
On Thursday mornings, typically between 9am–11am, a maintenance person will stop by to clean and service the hot tub, mow the lawn, and put the trash out for pickup Friday morning. They’ll handle everything outside, so you don’t need to be there or do anything.
ACCIDENTS
If there’s a spill, stain, something breaks, or something gets left behind, just let us know so we can take care of it before the next guests arrive.
A FEW THINGS THAT MATTER HERE
HOUSE RULES
CARPET CARE — the lodge has areas of very light-colored carpet, and you'll be in and out enjoying nature. We ask all guests to help us leave nature outside by removing shoes and using the provided entry mats to wipe wet, muddy, sandy, or dirty feet.
NO PETS — we are a pet-free property due to severe allergies.
NO PARTIES OR UNAUTHORIZED OVERNIGHT GUESTS.
NO SMOKING, VAPING OR E-CIGARETTES.
NO ADHESIVES OR STICK-ON DECORATIONS.
ADULT SUPERVISION REQUIRED — guests under 18 must be with an adult.
QUIET HOURS 10PM–8AM.
OCCUPANCY
No more than 12 overnight guests may stay at the lodge. If you plan to have visitors during your stay, let us know in advance how many people will be visiting and approximately how long they’ll be at the lodge. Visitors may not stay overnight unless they are added to the reservation and the total overnight guest count remains within the 12-person maximum.
DECORATIONS
Please do not use tape, Command strips, putty, stickers, decals, stick-on hooks, nails, tacks, screws, or other adhesives or fasteners on walls, shiplap, trim, furniture, doors, windows, or other lodge surfaces. Confetti, glitter, feathers, loose petals, rice, birdseed, colored powders, smoke effects, and similar difficult-to-remove decorations are also not permitted.
USING & ENJOYING THE LODGE
HOT TUB
Every day, add ½ cap of powder from the white jug on the bike rack, then run the jets for a few minutes. To remove the cover, unclip the two buckles by the steps, fold the cover back once, then fold it over the metal support bar. When you’re done, put the cover back on and reclip the buckles. Leave the bromine floater and other treatment equipment in place. If the water gets cloudy, foamy, or otherwise unusual, let us know.
Hot tub towels are located next to the couch in the basement, and there are hooks in the bathrooms for wet swimsuits. The temperature is normally set to 102°F. If you adjust it, please return it to 102°F when you’re done. Children may never use the hot tub without direct adult supervision, and children under 5 are not permitted in the hot tub. If anything seems off, please don’t attempt repairs — contact us instead.
KITCHEN
The kitchen is stocked with cookware, dishes, glasses, utensils, pots, pans, a griddle, blender, toaster, microwave, rice cooker, crock pot, baking supplies, spices, oil, salt, pepper, coffee, tea, paper towels, foil, food storage containers, dish soap, and dishwasher pods. There is also a regular coffee maker, bean grinder, and filters available.
COFFEE NOOK
The coffee nook drawers contain s’mores sticks, bug repellent and bite wipes, first-aid supplies, maps, extra USB cords, grilling utensils, lighters, bandages, antibacterial supplies, Tylenol, and ibuprofen. If you need something small during your stay, this is a good place to check first.
GAS FIRE PIT
The gas fire pit is located on the back deck. Open the propane tank valve, turn the flame knob to start, press and hold the flame knob in, then press the ignitor button. Continue holding the flame knob for about 15 seconds, then release and adjust the flame. When finished, turn off the flame, close the propane tank valve, and replace the cover.
WOOD FIRE PIT
The wood fire pit is in the backyard. Plan to bring or purchase bundles; local gas stations carry firewood. Please fully extinguish the fire and replace the cover when finished.
GAS GRILL
There is a large gas grill on the deck, with grilling tools in the bottom drawer of the coffee nook. Open the propane tank valve, turn the ignition burner to high, press the ignitor, and light the remaining burners as needed. When finished, turn off the burners, close the propane tank valve, replace the grill cover, and leave the grill reasonably mess-free. If you run out of propane, there’s an extra tank in the black box by the grill.
TV & XBOX
The downstairs TV uses Roku. You can sign in to your own streaming accounts such as Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon. The Xbox Series S is also available for guest use. Please remember to sign out of your personal accounts before checkout.
GAMES
Around 15 indoor games are located in the hall closet. Please return games and pieces to their original locations when you’re finished.
LAUNDRY
The washer and dryer are located in the basement next to the bathroom. Laundry detergent and fabric softener are provided.
GETTING OUTSIDE
THE RIVER
The Kingfisher Lodge sits directly on the Escanaba River. Water depth, current, temperature, shoreline conditions, weather, and terrain can change. Use reasonable care around the river and shoreline, especially on wet or slippery rocks, and closely supervise children.
FISHING
Grab your gear and head straight down to the river without ever getting in the car. It’s one of the simplest and best ways to slow down and enjoy where you are.
BIKES
We provide 3 adult bikes, 2 youth bikes, helmets, and a bike pump. The bikes are stored under the deck. Please use helmets, return everything to its original location when finished, and contact us rather than attempting a repair if there’s a problem with a bike.
YARD, WOODS, WILDLIFE
The property includes natural terrain, uneven ground, roots, holes, woods, wildlife, insects, and ticks. Use appropriate footwear outdoors and supervise children around the river, woods, decks, stairs, fire pits, and other outdoor areas.
BUGS & INSECTS
The U.P. has its share of bugs, especially in late spring and early summer. Mosquitoes are usually most active around dusk, in the evening, and during overcast weather. Ticks can also be active in May and June. We provide bug spray, bite wipes, first-aid supplies, and a Thermacell at the lodge.
TAKING CARE OF THE LODGE
CARPET
The lodge has areas of very light-colored carpet, and you’ll be in and out enjoying nature. Please help us leave nature outside by removing shoes and using the provided entry mats to wipe wet, muddy, sandy, or dirty feet before stepping onto carpeted areas. This is especially important after using the river, hot tub, fire pit, yard, or other outdoor areas.
TRASH
Trash bins are located by the garage. Please take household trash out to the bins as needed. Extra trash bags are under the kitchen sink. We do not currently offer recycling. Please do not leave trash, cans, bottles, food, or other debris outside around the lodge, fire pit, river, woods, or yard.
FUNISHINGS
Please do not move large or heavy furniture. If smaller furniture is moved during your stay, return it to its original location before checkout. Please also return games, bikes, outdoor equipment, and other lodge items to where you found them.
BASIC PROPERTY CARE
Toilet paper only in toilets
Do not flush wipes, diapers, feminine products, paper towels, or similar materials
Do not pour grease down drains
Close windows and doors during bad weather
Report spills, stains, damage, or maintenance problems promptly
Do not make repairs or incur repair expenses without approval
Do not share door codes outside your group
Park only in designated areas
Boats, RVs, buses, and trailers require prior approval
AROUND THE AREA
PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
The Stonehouse
Classic supper-club energy with steaks, prime rib, fresh fish, and a polished old-school feel. Located in Escanaba, it’s the kind of place you settle into for a real dinner and an unhurried night out.
Freshwater Tavern
Set right on the water in Gladstone with big views over Little Bay de Noc. Steaks, seafood, cocktails, and sunset views make dinner here feel like part of the evening.
Matera Grill
A warm, stylish spot in Escanaba with Italian-inspired dishes, pizza, pasta, steaks, and seafood. A great middle ground between casual and upscale for couples or groups.
Upper Hand Brewery
A relaxed craft brewery in Escanaba with a distinctly U.P. feel. Grab a flight, hang out in the taproom, and enjoy one of the area’s most local-feeling stops.
Rusty Rail
A small-town bar and grill in Cornell, just a short drive from The Kingfisher Lodge. Casual, welcoming, and easy for burgers, pizza, comfort food, and a laid-back night out.
THINGS TO DO
Tour Pictured Rocks
Munising, 60 min. Make a day of towering sandstone cliffs, hidden beaches, waterfalls, and some of the most dramatic shoreline in the Upper Peninsula. A boat tour is the classic way to see it, with plenty of overlooks and hikes if you want to explore by land.
Explore Marquette
Marquette, 60 min. Head north for coffee shops, breweries, boutiques, and a beautiful Lake Superior waterfront. It has enough energy for a full day out while still feeling unmistakably U.P.
Kayak the Au Train
Au Train, 45 min. Spend a few hours drifting through a beautiful stretch of river surrounded by forest and quiet Northwoods scenery. Peaceful, scenic, and one of those outings that feels like a true U.P. escape.
Hike the Days River
Gladstone, 15 min. A close-to-home option for quiet trails, wooded scenery, and a little fresh air without giving up the whole day. Great for hiking, biking, or simply disappearing into the pines for an hour or two.
Gladstone Beach Day
Gladstone, 20 min. Spend a sunny afternoon along Little Bay de Noc with swimming, sand, open space, and room for the kids to roam. It’s an easy, low-key summer day that feels very U.P.
Fish the Escanaba
The Kingfisher Lodge, 0 min. Grab your gear and head straight down to the river without ever getting in the car. It’s one of the simplest and best ways to slow down and enjoy where you are.
Golf at Sweetgrass
Harris, 25 min. One of the U.P.’s standout golf experiences, with beautiful conditioning, wide-open views, and a polished but relaxed feel. Easy to pair with dinner or a little time at the resort afterward.
Play at Island Resort
Harris, 25 min. Make a night of it with gaming, dining, entertainment, golf, or a little spa time all in one place. A fun option when the group wants something lively without a long drive.
Relax at Drift Spa
Harris, 25 min. Trade trail shoes for a robe and spend a few hours unwinding with massages, treatments, and some well-earned downtime. Perfect after golf, a travel day, or a few busy days exploring the U.P.
Picnic Ludington Park
Escanaba, 25 min. Grab lunch and head to the waterfront for open lawns, shoreline views, walking paths, and plenty of room to spread out. Stay long enough and you may catch a great Lake Michigan sunset.
Stock Up in Escanaba
Escanaba, 25 min. Need groceries, snacks, drinks, or something you forgot at home? Escanaba has everything you need for a full weekend reset or a quick supply run.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Checkout is by 10:00 AM ET.
Leave used beds unmade
Leave used towels in the bathrooms
Empty the refrigerator and freezer
Wash used dishes and cookware
Leave grill, stove, and fridge reasonably mess-free
Place all trash in the garage bins
Leave no trash or debris outside
Return anything you moved to its original location
Cover and latch the hot tub
Tidy the fire pit area if used
Turn off lights and lock the doors
If anything was stained, broken, damaged, or left behind, please let us know before you go. It’s much easier for us to take care of something when we know about it.
NEED HELP?
If something isn’t working, something breaks, or you’re unsure about anything in the house, just message or text us. We’d much rather hear from you than have you wrestle with it.
Jason
773-848-3330
The Kingfisher Lodge
11147 N. River Lane
Cornell, MI 49818