LandVest is pleased to offer this 624±-acre estate for sale in the western end of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This estate property is a unique combination of a residence and guest quarters with open farmland, forests, and quality river frontage. The property is in a desirable area, approximately nine miles north of the City of Iron River and US Highway 2. Reliable access is available from Gibbs City Road, which makes up the property’s western boundary.
The land is relatively level in the west before becoming more rolling and sloped in the east. Several high ridge islands are scattered throughout, providing unique vantage points and views of the surrounding valley. The ridge lines are spattered with rock outcrops, adding to the pleasing aesthetics the property offers. Swaths of timber were harvested 8 to 10 years ago, mostly in the southern half, resulting in young, dense aspen saplings now coming through. Along with the young aspen, the western portion of the property features lessor components of lowland conifer species, jack pine, white pine, and red pine. As you approach the eastern boundary, the terrain ascends slightly, and the forest cover transitions to more traditional northern hardwood species. The hardwood is dominated by sugar maple with lessor components of white birch, yellow birch, basswood, black cherry, and ash. The hardwood stands are approaching mature ages and could be harvested over time. The driveway originates from Gibbs City Road to the west and travels through a 34±-acre hay field currently being leased on an annual basis to a nearby farmer. The property is mostly upland and primarily found in the north and along the eastern boundary. The lowland areas are mostly found in the south, with a few swaths extending north to the river.
The property is improved with several improvements that include a primary dwelling, guest cabin, barn, shed, and outdoor cooking area uniquely set up for preparing wildlife harvested on the property. The main dwelling is an older home that has been used as a hunting retreat in recent years. The home has both conventional forced air and electric baseboard heat. The home is serviced by LP gas, municipal water, and private septic. The caretaker’s cabin is smaller than the main cabin but does have a kitchen, bedroom, and washer/dryer. It is currently being used by the property’s caretaker. The large barn is utilized for cold storage, maintenance/workshop, and animal processing. An additional small shed is also used for cold storage. The unique outdoor kitchen is covered and screened, allowing for the perfect setting for a large gathering. Cooking elements include several grills and a homemade brick smoker. The property also contains an established network of trails providing access to most areas of the property along with several hunting blinds.
Uniquely situated along the South Branch of the Paint River, the property features over 4,000 feet of frontage which makes up most of the northern boundary. The South Branch of the Paint River is 42 miles in length, mostly within the Ottawa National Forest with little to no development. The river is a well-known trout stream which attracts anglers from all over the country. McColman Creek also meanders through the property before emptying into the river along the property’s northern boundary. This portion of McColman Creek is also known for brook and brown trout.
Paint River Reserve abuts the Ottawa National Forest to the east. The Ottawa National Forest totals almost one million acres, extending from the south shore of Lake Superior to the Wisconsin border with miles of Lake Superior frontage, over 500 named lakes, and nearly 2,000 miles of rivers and streams. The water resources provide numerous recreational opportunities that include canoeing, kayaking, trout fishing, and waterfall viewing. The national forest is home to a vast variety of wildlife that includes deer, fox, snowshoe hare, bald eagles, loons, bears, coyotes, fisher, wolves, and others.
The City of Iron River is situated nine miles south of the property and known as a hub for tourists exploring the area’s vast forestland, scenic lakes, and winter sports. This once major mining town now has strong businesses and a growing medical community. The Stambaugh Airport is located within the City of Iron River and can accommodate single and light twin planes. Private hangers have been built and can be leased on a per square foot basis. The closest regional airport servicing a major airline is the Marquette-Sawyer Regional Airport located two hours to the east of the property.
This Paint River Reserve offers a unique opportunity to own a secluded estate in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Directions: From the City of Iron River, travel west along US-2 for 2.5 miles before turning north onto Gibbs City Road. Travel north along Gibbs City Road for 9.2 miles, and the property driveway will be on the east side of the road.
