Balsam Cottage is located on Clear Lake, part of the unique and historic Spider Lake Chain of Lakes about 14 miles northeast of Hayward. The Spider Lake Chain consists of 5 interconnected lakes known for its clear water, sandbars, picnic and camping islands accessible by boat, and is a desired fishing and watersport enthusiast destination. Power sports (boating, skiing, jet skiing) is restricted to the hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All other times, there are wake restrictions. There is a boat accessible bar/restaurant close by on Little Spider Lake and a golf course with bar on Clear Lake. At Balsam cottage we provide 2 single person kayaks and a canoe. If you want more, you can rent almost anything at Hayward Power Sports close-by.

The long, quiet tree covered driveway to the cabin is the beginning of your peaceful stay. This 3 bedroom/2 bathroom cabin features tongue & groove pine throughout on two levels and spacious comfortable living areas. It accommodates 8 people with three bedrooms (1 queen bedroom and I bedroom with 2 twin beds main level, and another queen bedroom and queen sleeper sofa in downstairs family room).

The main level is an open concept with fully equipped kitchen, dining area and living room with stone gas fireplace and floor to ceiling windows and slider. Walk out to a spacious lakeview deck where you’ll enjoy the best view on the lake including the largest island on the chain, Big Butternut Island. This deck gives you a birdseye view to watch the fisherman bring in their catch (or not) and wave to boaters and kayakers as they pass by. This deck also has a bench table for dining and a gas grill. The main level also features a full bathroom with tub/shower and two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and one with 2 twin beds. A spiral stairs takes you down to the lower level.

The lower level features a large family room with large screen tv, sofa and loveseat, a freestanding franklin gas fireplace, game/dining table and futon. This level has large windows, a slider running the length of the family room which walks out to 2nd spacious deck with chaise loungers. This level also features a ¾ bath with shower, a bedroom with a queen bed, and a utility room with washer and dryer. The sofa folds out to a queen size sleeper. The tv is a smart tv connected to Dish network. Wireless internet for the home is Century Link.

Timber steps take you down to the lake. There you will find an L shaped dock with ladder for swimming or launching the kayaks or canoe, and a rock lakeside fire pit. Plenty of room for your own pontoon or motor boat. Bring your own lifejackets and beach towels.

There is much to do close by, whether spending a day in Hayward on the historic and lively main street or finding a hike in the woods. Hayward is a sports destination with miles of mountain bike trails and off road trails. Lots of great restaurants in town and on the lakes and several great Friday night fish frys.

We’ll text directions to Balsam cottage as mobile phone service outside Hayward can be unreliable.