Scott & Brenda Bicknell had been visiting the Gaylord area for many years and were looking to invest in the motel business. They wanted to provide visitors a clean, comfortable room at an affordable price.
They established the Waters Inn in 2004 as a peaceful alternative to the Gaylord area, without the traffic, noise and neon, but still providing access to the usual amenities. The SxS or snowmobile trail – depending on the season sits just “across the road”. When the weather cooperates several golf courses are within a quick drive from the Inn for a fun/frustrating game after a great trail experience. Honestly, just great lodging for those who would prefer to enjoy everything the Gaylord area has to offer, without the noise, the big box stores and the traffic jams, and yet be within 8 miles of the extra amenities of Gaylord if needed.
The Waters Inn is a family owned Motel and when you stay with the Bicknell’s it’s like you are with family. Each room is decorated with a theme. You can choose your room, golf, hunting, fishing or the history room. Each room has that up north feel you are longing for with Wi-Fi, a small refrigerator, a microwave and coffee pot. Please check them out on TripAdvisor, the customer reviews speak for themselves. To ensure that great experience, the Bicknell’s asked Bob Holmes to join the family as Resident Manager and eventually a Partner. Bob stays on the property 24/7 to assist visitors with any requests.
The Waters Inn is conveniently located two miles off exit 270, Waters, MI. Just turn to the west. Then turn north at the BP station. You can’t miss it. The Waters Inn has ample parking could easily accommodate several trailer/tow vehicle combinations for a group ride. The BP Convenience Store /Gas Station is a quick 200 foot “or so” drive that allows for easy SxS or snowmobile fill ups just before hitting the trail, then filling up the tow vehicle just before heading home.
As soon as your ride is ready, the trail sits within a half mile from the door of each of the rooms. The Waters Inn is definitely set up to be an up north oasis for visitors. Many amenities are within walking distance including the Keg Bar & Grill, followed by Trailside Creamery & Pizza for extra treats or just sitting on the motel front porch! Another great choice is family favorite Gobblers Restaurant. Located just off I-75 on the Waters Exit and also with plenty of parking for riding groups traveling together. So many choices so very close to this location!
For history buffs – the Waters Inn started in 1952 as the Space-E Motel. In 1996 the Motel was partially destroyed by fire. The motel owners at that time were from Rochester, Michigan and also operated a mechanical contracting firm. They were able to reopen in 1997 as Roger’s Roost.
In 2004, the Waters Inn name came from a family discussion and from local input. Many community members thought Roger’s Roost was a private club, so the Bicknell family thought to themselves and with input from their daughter – decided the name needed to be a gift back to the community – and the Waters Inn was named…the rest as they say is history. •
