Justin Trails Resort, LLC — Hotel in Town of Leon

I'm so sad to be writing a negative review, and should state that my unpleasant experience is probably not common. Still, I would call what my family and I went through unacceptable. I called on a Saturday to reserve the venue for a wedding, was ready to put a deposit down on the phone. Donna was friendly, said I should visit first, and that she'd hold the date for us until we could visit several days later in the middle of the week (weekends are unavailable for tours as there are weddings taking place). My mother and fiance and I took off work and drove 6 hours to the place, which is lovely by the way, to find out she had just booked the date for someone else that morning, while we were on the road for our tour. It was supposed to be reserved for us, why didn't she at least call to let us know? My heart absolutely broke. We had to drive back another 6 hours, since my fiance was so angry we refused to stay in the cabin we had reserved for the night.

An hour out on the way back, we realize we are too exhausted to make the 6 hour drive again in the same day, so I call Donna and make an appeal, ask if she would discount the cabin we had booked for our trouble and heartache and I'd see if I could convince my fiance to select another date, since I loved the venue so much. She had the opportunity to amend her mistake and instead she basically told me she didn't think the venue was right for us. I had asked if we could get additional tent camping just in case more than 30 guests wanted to tent camp (I asked about 50), and she didn't like the idea because her bathrooms couldn't support them (I suggested we could rent portapotties, she didn't seem to like the idea either), which I totally respected. I feel as though she thought we might try to "sneak" more guests against her wishes and as a result damage her property, which is so hurtful and insulting, because I can't imagine how I gave off that impression. Possibly it's because I was dressed somewhat "alternatively" (but not even that much) being from a city, I don't know. If she doesn't want my business, I'm certainly not going to insist, especially after she made that huge mistake with failing to reserve the date. Talk about adding insult to injury. I understand she has the right to turn people away, but she could have done so more tactfully. I felt rejected. Maybe she was embarrassed because I was so clearly disappointed by her error? Either way, I can't believe we took time off work and traveled so many hours to be treated that way. What a waste!

It's a lovely place though, so I would still recommend giving it a shot, but heed my advice: make sure you confirm that your date is available, even if Donna says she's holding it for you, especially before heading out for your tour. KEEP calling and reminding her, as she runs the scheduling on her own and she seems kind of overwhelmed by all her other duties (she also seemed upset with the people who were currently setting up their wedding as we were there). Keep in mind this is Donna and Don's home, so it's personal. I think I scared them just mentioning I might have a large event, and there was no going back even when I tried to back peddle (I wasn't sure about anything, just asking about what was possible). Not a place for a rambunctious party, they are somewhat conservative (evident also by the fact that they do not allow hard liquor or cocktails to be served on...

The Perfect Romantic Getaway – A Magical Weekend at Justin Trails Resort

My husband and I recently spent a romantic weekend at Justin Trails Resort, and it was truly everything we hoped for — peaceful, charming, and full of special moments that we’ll treasure forever.

From the moment we arrived, we felt completely welcomed and relaxed. The rolling hills, whispering trees, and beautiful open skies instantly melted away the stress of everyday life. It’s impossible not to feel at peace here — the entire property radiates calm, care, and warmth.

We stayed in the Sunrise Cottage, a rustic-luxury cabin, and it was absolutely perfect for a romantic escape. It was spotless, beautiful, and so peaceful. The owner shared details of the build out of the cabin with wood inside sourced from trees from their property. Waking up to the sunrise each morning sipping coffee on the porch while listening to the birds was like something out of a movie. The breakfast each morning of our stay was prepared by the innkeeper and owner, Donna Justin, was more than expected and soooooo... delicious. The property is engulfed by bluffs and trees that allow for walks along a pathway with magnificent views. At night the stars were just magical — so quiet, so clear, and so serene.

One of the highlights of our stay was when my husband had the chance to play guitar for a small group on the property. The setting was intimate and inviting, with the natural beauty around us adding something truly special to the music. It felt incredibly personal and meaningful — the kind of moment you don’t forget.

During the day, we explored the scenic walking trails, visited a local apple orchard (a perfect fall outing!), and stopped by a couple of charming local wineries nearby. Each had its own unique atmosphere and delicious selections — it was such a treat to discover the flavors of the Driftless Region together. We also enjoyed dining at some wonderful local restaurants, each with its own small-town charm and genuine hospitality.

And then there’s Donna, the owner and her amazing daughter, Dawn, both the heart and soul of Justin Trails. They are the kindest, most welcoming hosts you could hope for. You can feel how much love and care they’ve put into every inch of this place. Their warmth and attention to detail made our weekend feel extra special.

Justin Trails Resort is more than just a getaway — it’s an experience. Whether you're looking to reconnect, celebrate, or just unwind in nature with the one you love, this place offers it all. We left feeling relaxed, recharged, and closer than ever.

We’re already talking about coming back next year — maybe in a different season to see how the landscape changes (though fall was absolutely stunning!). If you’re thinking of booking a romantic weekend away in Wisconsin, don’t hesitate — this place is pure magic.

Highly recommend...

I had a very meh stay at Justin Trails Resort. I can sum it up by saying there's a huge lack of attention to detail. My family had reserved a specific cabin but we were told the innkeeper had given it away instead to someone else while we were en route. When we arrived, the innkeeper had a workable solution for us that involved comping us 3 separate rooms instead of the one cabin we had booked. Ok, it worked out, but the principle of giving a reserved room to someone else blows my mind. We had no idea if we were going to have a space with enough beds when we arrived! As the innkeeper was showing us the spaces we could choose from we noticed the heat in each room was turned off even though it was only ten degrees outside. We shivered as we walked through the spaces. They didn't feel ready to make a good impression. The innkeeper wanted to show us how to use the tv. She insisted I physically pick up and hold the remote. She then said to push the power button, which I dutifully did. She said "ok now it's on!" as if there's no possible way I would have guessed that. She proceeded to spend no fewer than 5 minutes telling me how to use the arrow keys to scroll through the program guide on the tv. Once we settled in we noticed other things lacking. Dirty sinks, no tissues, no stock of food on the room service menu...things like that. Three promised amenities weren't really delivered on at all: 1, the heat didn't really work outside the bedrooms. 2, the whirlpool tubs in both suites did not whirl (in one, the control panel was coming off the side of the tub threatening to fall into the water in an obvious fire hazard). 3, no wifi. The innkeeper offered Ethernet, but that's not helpful when my phone, tablet, and laptop all don't have Ethernet adapters. At breakfast the next day, we were served a "buffet" of muffins, fruit, and bacon. The problem is the bacon was sitting out at room temperature for who knows how long. It was not hot. (Or safely refrigerated.) The resort also offers a hot breakfast item included. Although my group arrived and ordered first, a subsequent group who ordered the same thing as us was served first. The innkeeper asked if we minded if she played her player piano. We all said no that sounds great. So she started it at a louder than ambient volume then stood there at the piano watching it. She didn't leave the piano to grab my mom a coffee refill she had already requested and the coffee was not completely hot when she did receive it. After one song, the innkeeper turned off the piano and left the area. It was weird! The stay wasn't bad but there are many, many places for improvement. Overall I really would not recommend this place for quality...