Whalan resort opens Rustic Hearth Event Center

Cedar Valley Resort is easily one of the most well-rounded, breathtaking resorts in the county. Situated in the valley beneath the Root River bluffs, the family-owned resort is nearing the end of its second decade of business. Operated by Larry and Sheryl Johson and their daughter and son-in-law, Brittany and John Smith, it sits nestled into the original 40 acres owned by Larry’s grandfather in the 1920s. Once the also the site of Gene Johnson’s ranch, Cedar Valley Fur Farm, the property was converted to a resort in 1998, opening to the public in 2001.

Initially, just three cabins dotted the sprawling property. Now, it boasts nine in total, including two three-bedroom, three four-bedroom, one six-bedroom, one deluxe, six-bedroom cottage, and two eight-bedroom reunion or retreat cabins. Each offers every possible comfort of home, additional luxury items, including a fireplace. Rounding out the resort are the office, boutique, rentals, athletic courts, year-round outdoor activities, and on-site services.

Last May, the resort broke ground on the event center, which opened this past November. “A big part of our clientele are large groups,” notes Brittany Smith. “We wanted to give them a space to gather together.  We also wanted to be able to accommodate our business groups and host events throughout the year.”

Partnering with Chris Nelson Construction, of Houston, the family set their sights on a state-of-the-art event center capable of holding 100 guests and maintaining the comfortable old-fashioned style. “He was highly recommended for his attention to detail,” says Smith of their contractor. “The building exceeded our expectations. We are extremely happy with the result.”

One of the prominent features is a 24-foot stone fireplace. “The hearth, along with our large picture windows facing the bluffs, gives you a serene, peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for gathering with friends and family, productive meetings, relaxing craft weekends and retreats,” adds Smith.

The 2,000 square foot gathering hall gleams with abundant natural light, custom wood-paneled walls and vaulted ceiling, and spectacular views. Facing the stunning bluff scenery and award-winning Root River State Trail is a 50-foot covered porch, complete with lights and ceiling fans for comfort in all times and seasons. Also, the center features a fully stocked, modern kitchen, high-end projector and sound system, and two breakout rooms. 

While originally designed for resort guests, Cedar Valley Resort has already hosted several small events for the community in the center. 

Starting construction at the onset of the tourist season was a new challenge for the resort, having constructed all other projects away from full summer capacity. “Surprisingly, we had no complaints and many of our guests enjoyed watching the construction,” notes Smith. “We are very excited about the opportunities this will open up for us and our guests.”

Even with the event center addition, Cedar Valley Resort is continuing to plan future endeavors. Next up is a pickleball court. “Additional projects are always in our thought for the future,” adds Smith.

“Meeting so many people from all over the world and from all walks of life is a wonderful way for a family to make a living. We feel the relationships we have had with the local communities has been more like a partnership,” she continues. “We have benefited greatly from their willingness to support our vision at Cedar Valley Resort and in return, we hope they have benefited from us as well.”