The year was 1905 and the Big Bay Depot was the center of activity for the bustling lumber town of big Bay. After a prosperous twenty years, the "Great White Pine Logging Era" diminished as well as the town, which now has a small population of only 250. A boom town turned small to locals, a vacation destination for others. Henry Ford took interest in the area, and in 1940 purchased the Thunder Bay Inn as a retreat. The Depot blocked his view of Lake Independence and was moved 250' from its original site. The train quit running in the late 1940s and in the early 1960s, reopened for tours from Marquette to Big Bay. Unfortunately, the tracks were uprooted in the 1980s. The original train station, now refurbished and under new ownership is thriving again. The depot houses five large, uniquely decorated suites. They are all equipped with the amenities of home and overlook Lake Independence. The view from the depot toward the sunrise is one of quiet beauty. Get away from it all at the Big Bay Depot motel!! For room rates and availability please call (906)345-9350.

Come see pure Michigan at it's finest!! Beach access and a short distance to a neighboring camp ground with lots of beach and play area for kids!! Watch the sky to see a Bald Eagle! Go canoeing or kayaking on the Jordan River just minutes away! A snow lover?? Well, we have ski slopes a short drive away and if you like to snowmobile, the trail head is just a block away!!

www.northwoodslodgings.com