With scenery like that, what’s not to love about Riverview Lodge?

Dennis and Carey Hera are thrilled with their new life, owning and operating Riverview Lodge in Cornell. The State Hwy. 178 motel is a new venture for the couple – and their beloved “mascot” dogs – but one they enjoy. Submitted Photo

By Ginna Young

Carey Hera and Dennis Hera were just out for a drive on their motorcycles, when they saw a “for sale” sign in front of what was Edgewater Motel, at 24250 State Hwy. 178, in Cornell. The husband and wife team lived in Chippewa Falls at the time, but after stopping to check out the property, and weighing the pros and cons, they signed the papers, packed up their life and moved to the house attached to the motel.

That was in October of 2023, when they bought the turn-key business from the previous owners of 25 years. They renamed it Riverview Lodge and have just enjoyed the time so far. “We absolutely love it here,” said Carey. “We’ve gotten to know a few people.”

“It’s been a very much pleasurable experience,” agreed Dennis. The Heras have done a few improvements, while continuing to work full-time jobs at the Stanley Correctional Facility, but more work is planned, such as new furniture, new carpeting and new appliances in the six rooms.

“It’s something that has to be done,” said Carey.

Each room features two full-size beds, a mini-fridge, microwave and coffee pots.

“Simple, but just everything that you really need,” said Carey.

Since the office is not typically manned, most check-ins are all done online and once the room is paid for through Square, with credit card, an email is sent to the customer, with a passcode for the electronic keypad – although some customers do stop in and prefer to pay cash.

Carey keeps track of guests coming and going through cameras around the property, so she knows when someone has arrived. Check-in is typically at 1 p.m., but with the help of the cameras, Carey can send the code to let someone into their room, if they’re waiting outside.

To book a room at the motel, email stay_ riverviewlodge@yahoo.com, call 715-2396295 or visit the Facebook page.

As for the outside of the property, the Heras plan to extend the driveway to fit parked fishing boats and construction worker trailers.

“That will be very helpful,” said Carey. There’s a dock out and paddle boats belonging to the motel across the highway, nestled in the Chippewa River, for guests to use when the water level is acceptable. Carey also wants to try to have a community movie night next summer, where people can spread blankets on the ground and watch a flick outdoors.

With work, kids and grandkids, and two dogs occupying their time, the Heras are never bored or lonely, and now get to meet people from all over the country, who stay at their establishment.

“We really filled our plates coming here, but at the end of the day, it’s all so rewarding,” said Carey. “I just want to provide them the greatest place ever, being in the Northwoods.”