We rented a cabin on the AuSable River with three other couples—a beautiful, three-story structure with vaulted ceilings and lots of windows to enjoy views of the woods. Settled far off the main road, we were just steps away from the water, which ran right behind the back yard.

In between outdoor activities (our group split time among kayaking, fishing, and disc golf), we enjoyed hanging out at the house, making meals, roasting s’mores on the campfire, and playing board games together. We also took a few trips to downtown Grayling, which provided just the right amount of commerce (a coffee shop, ice cream, restaurants, and souvenir shops) without overshadowing the weekend’s “get away from it all” theme.