52.14 Acres for Sale on Firesteel Road in Ontonagon, Michigan – Your Upper Peninsula Opportunity

Imagine owning more than 52 acres in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula, surrounded by natural scenery, quiet country roads, and some of the region’s most popular outdoor destinations. Located at 17402 Firesteel Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953, this property offers a rare opportunity to enjoy privacy while staying close to Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

With 52.14 acres, year-round county-maintained road access, an on-site pond, mixed woods, and nearby Cave Creek, this property offers plenty of room to explore your plans. Whether you dream of building a year-round home, creating a private hunting camp, or developing a getaway near the Porkies, the land provides an appealing starting point.

 

The property also includes two existing structures with very different stories. One is an existing structure dating to 1937 with a full basement, while the other is a historic barn estimated to be approximately 150 years old. Both offer possibilities, although buyers should carefully evaluate their condition and potential uses.

Most importantly, this property gives you the chance to shape your own Upper Peninsula retreat. Instead of settling for a property that already has someone else’s vision built into every corner, you can explore the possibilities and decide what works best for your goals.

A Private 52.14-Acre Property in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Finding a sizable private parcel with convenient year-round road access can be challenging in the Upper Peninsula. This property offers 52.14 acres along Firesteel Road, providing a combination of privacy, natural surroundings, and accessibility.

The acreage gives future owners room to consider several different uses. You could explore a new home site, create a seasonal getaway, enjoy hunting and outdoor recreation, or simply preserve the land as a private retreat.

The mixed woods add natural character, while the pond creates another attractive feature. In addition, Cave Creek is nearby, adding to the property’s outdoor appeal.

For buyers who want more than a small residential lot, the size of this property opens up a wider range of possibilities. You can enjoy the feeling of having room to roam while remaining within reach of Ontonagon and the surrounding recreational destinations.

Of course, buyers should evaluate the terrain, boundaries, drainage, and usable areas before deciding where to place a home, cabin, driveway, or other improvements.

A Location Near the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior

One of the strongest features of this property is its location.

The land sits near two of Michigan’s most recognizable natural destinations: Lake Superior and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. These attractions help make the Ontonagon area appealing to outdoor enthusiasts, vacationers, and people who enjoy the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

Close to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

The <Entity value=”Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park” category=”point_of_interest” location=”Ontonagon County, Michigan”/> is a major attraction in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Known locally as the Porkies, the park offers a remarkable natural setting with old-growth forest, scenic overlooks, hiking opportunities, and access to Lake Superior’s shoreline.

Outdoor enthusiasts visit the area throughout the year. Hiking, wildlife observation, camping, winter recreation, and scenic exploration all contribute to the park’s appeal.

Owning property nearby could make it easier to enjoy the region without staying in a crowded tourist area. You can explore the surrounding attractions and then return to your own private setting.

For someone considering a vacation property, hunting retreat, or future rental investment, this location deserves attention.

However, buyers should verify actual driving distances, travel times, and access routes before relying on specific proximity claims.

Near the Beauty of Lake Superior

<Entity value=”Lake Superior” category=”place” disambig=”Great Lake in North America”/> adds another layer of appeal to this property.

The lake is known for its impressive size, dramatic shoreline, clear waters, and changing seasonal scenery. Visitors enjoy photography, sightseeing, fishing, boating, and exploring the communities along its shores.

The Ontonagon area offers access to the natural attractions that make the western Upper Peninsula special. A property near Lake Superior can provide a convenient base for exploring the region while enjoying a quieter rural setting.

For future owners, the combination of wooded acreage and nearby lake access may create an appealing balance between privacy and recreation.

An Area with Year-Round Outdoor Appeal

The Upper Peninsula attracts visitors in every season. Each time of year brings a different experience, giving property owners several ways to enjoy the surrounding area.

Spring brings fresh growth, flowing streams, and opportunities to explore the woods as the landscape wakes up after winter.

Summer offers long days for hiking, fishing, sightseeing, and visiting Lake Superior. It is also a popular season for vacationers exploring the Porkies and nearby communities.

Fall transforms the woods with colorful foliage. The season also attracts hunters, photographers, and travelers who enjoy cooler weather and scenic drives.

Winter creates opportunities for snow-based recreation, including activities in the wider Porcupine Mountains area. Buyers should investigate winter access and local conditions before planning regular trips.

This seasonal variety may appeal to someone who wants a year-round residence or a property that supports occasional visits throughout the year.

A Historic Barn Estimated to Be 150 Years Old

One of the property’s most distinctive features is its historic barn.

Estimated to be approximately 150 years old, the barn represents a connection to the Upper Peninsula’s earlier settlement and mining-era history. Structures from this period can offer a special sense of character that newer outbuildings simply cannot reproduce.

The barn may interest buyers who appreciate historic buildings, reclaimed materials, or restoration projects.

Restore a Piece of Upper Peninsula History

A buyer with a passion for preservation may want to investigate restoring the barn. Depending on its structural condition, it could become a standout outbuilding with a unique historic appearance.

Possible future ideas might include a workshop, storage building, equipment shelter, or other use permitted by local regulations.

However, a structure of this age deserves a careful professional inspection. Buyers should evaluate the foundation, framing, roof, siding, drainage, and signs of rot or insect damage.

A qualified contractor or historic-building specialist can help determine whether restoration is practical and estimate the work involved.

Consider Reclaimed Barn Wood

The listing also identifies reclaimed barn wood as another possible direction.

Historic barns may contain aged siding and hand-hewn beams that appeal to buyers, builders, furniture makers, and people who enjoy rustic architectural materials.

Some reclaimed wood can have value because of its age, appearance, and craftsmanship. However, the actual value depends on the condition, type, quantity, and market demand for the materials.

Buyers should not assume that the barn contains a specific amount of valuable lumber or that salvage will be profitable. A professional evaluation can help determine whether restoration or careful material recovery makes more sense.

Before removing any materials, also review applicable ownership, permitting, disposal, and safety requirements.

Existing 1937 Structure with a Full Basement

The property includes an existing structure dating to 1937, with a full basement.

This building offers another point of interest for buyers. Some may want to investigate whether it can be restored or repurposed. Others may prefer to use the land as the foundation for a completely new home or cabin.

The listing presents the existing structure as an as-is feature and describes the property primarily as an opportunity to build the Upper Peninsula home or retreat you want.

Because the structure dates back several decades, a thorough inspection is essential.

Buyers should evaluate the roof, foundation, basement, framing, electrical system, plumbing, heating, insulation, windows, and other major components. They should also look for signs of water intrusion, moisture, mold, or structural movement.

The full basement may offer useful space, but its condition and suitability for future use need professional review.

If the buyer plans to remove the structure, demolition costs and local requirements should also be considered.

The important point is that buyers have an existing building to evaluate, but they should not assume it is move-in ready or suitable for renovation without further inspection.

An On-Site Pond and Nearby Cave Creek

Water features add natural appeal to rural property, and this acreage includes an on-site pond.

A pond can create a peaceful setting and provide an attractive focal point for a future cabin or recreational retreat. It may also support wildlife and add to the overall character of the land.

Nearby Cave Creek offers another natural feature to investigate.

Together, the pond, creek, and wooded surroundings help create the kind of setting many buyers seek when looking for an Upper Peninsula getaway.

However, buyers should confirm the exact location of Cave Creek in relation to the property boundaries. They should also investigate pond conditions, drainage, water levels, maintenance needs, and any applicable water rights or restrictions.

A nearby creek does not automatically provide a private water supply or unrestricted access. Buyers should verify those details independently.

Mixed Woods and Natural Privacy

The property features mixed woods, creating a natural environment for outdoor recreation and quiet enjoyment.

Wooded acreage can offer several advantages. It may provide privacy, shade, wildlife habitat, and opportunities to explore the land throughout the seasons.

For hunters, natural cover may add interest. For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the trees and changing landscape can make the property enjoyable even without major improvements.

The woods also provide flexibility for future planning. Depending on the terrain and applicable regulations, buyers may investigate potential locations for a driveway, cabin, outdoor gathering area, or other improvements.

Still, not every wooded area will be suitable for construction. Soil conditions, slopes, wetlands, drainage, and access can affect what is practical.

A land survey and professional site evaluation can help identify the best areas for any future project.

Year-Round County-Maintained Road Access

Access is an important consideration when purchasing rural land, especially in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where winter weather can affect travel.

This property offers year-round access from a county-maintained road.

That feature may appeal to buyers who want to visit in different seasons or plan to use the property as a permanent residence.

Year-round road maintenance can make regular access more convenient than relying on a private or seasonal road. It may also simplify planning for construction, deliveries, and general property management.

However, buyers should confirm the exact maintenance arrangements and understand whether the driveway itself requires private snow removal or other upkeep.

They should also inspect the entrance, visibility, drainage, and any driveway or road-access requirements before building.

Potential Uses for the Property

With 52.14 acres, an on-site pond, mixed woods, nearby Cave Creek, a historic barn, and an existing structure, this property offers several possible directions.

The right plan depends on the buyer’s goals, budget, and the property’s physical and legal conditions.

Build a Year-Round Upper Peninsula Home

For buyers who want to make the Upper Peninsula their home, the acreage may offer an opportunity to create a private residence surrounded by nature.

A new house could be designed around the property’s wooded setting, with space for outdoor activities and room to enjoy the surrounding landscape.

The existing 1937 structure may also be worth evaluating before deciding whether to renovate or build new.

Before construction, buyers should confirm zoning, setbacks, septic approval, water options, electrical service, building permits, and suitable building locations.

Create a Private Hunting Camp

The natural surroundings and wooded acreage may appeal to hunters looking for a private base in the region.

A cabin or hunting camp could provide a place to relax before and after outdoor activities. The nearby recreational attractions may also offer additional ways to enjoy the area beyond hunting season.

However, buyers should research local hunting regulations, seasons, licensing requirements, and land-use restrictions.

They should also evaluate the property’s wildlife habitat and determine whether the existing terrain supports their preferred hunting activities.

Develop a Vacation Retreat

The location near the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior may interest someone who wants a seasonal getaway.

A private cabin could provide a place to return after hiking, sightseeing, fishing, or exploring the surrounding communities.

The pond and wooded setting may add to the appeal of a future retreat.

Any construction or guest accommodation plans should comply with local zoning, building rules, and applicable regulations.

Investigate a Rental Investment

The property’s location near a well-known outdoor destination may encourage some buyers to explore a vacation rental concept.

Travelers visiting the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior may look for nearby places to stay, particularly during popular travel seasons.

A future cabin or renovated structure could potentially serve as a rental, depending on local rules and the property’s suitability.

However, rental income is not guaranteed. Buyers should research local demand, competition, operating costs, licensing, insurance, taxes, and short-term rental regulations before making an investment decision.

Why the Upper Peninsula Appeals to Outdoor Enthusiasts

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has a distinctive character. Its forests, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and small communities attract people who appreciate outdoor recreation and natural beauty.

The Ontonagon area is especially appealing to those who want to explore Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains.

The region offers a different pace from larger cities. Visitors can spend time hiking, enjoying scenic drives, exploring local communities, and experiencing the changing seasons.

For property owners, this creates an opportunity to enjoy a destination that attracts outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

A private parcel on Firesteel Road can provide a quieter place to return to after exploring the region.

Important Due Diligence Before Purchasing

Although this property offers attractive features, buyers should complete careful due diligence before making a purchase.

1. Inspect the Existing Structure

Arrange a professional inspection of the 1937 structure. Pay particular attention to the foundation, full basement, roof, electrical system, plumbing, heating, and signs of water damage.

If you plan to renovate, obtain estimates from qualified contractors.

2. Evaluate the Historic Barn

The approximately 150-year-old barn deserves its own inspection.

Ask a qualified professional to evaluate its structural stability and restoration needs. If you are considering reclaimed lumber, obtain an independent assessment of the materials and their potential value.

3. Verify Property Boundaries

Review the legal description and obtain a current survey if needed.

Confirm the location of the pond, creek, barn, existing structure, and potential building areas in relation to the property boundaries.

4. Investigate Water and Septic Options

Do not assume the property has an approved water source or wastewater system.

Contact the appropriate local authorities to investigate well requirements, septic suitability, soil conditions, and permits.

5. Confirm Utilities

Ask local providers about electricity and other utility availability. If connections are not already established, request estimates for installation.

6. Review Road and Winter Access

Confirm the county’s road maintenance arrangements and investigate driveway maintenance responsibilities.

Visit the property in different weather conditions if possible, especially if you plan to use it throughout the winter.

7. Check Zoning and Rental Rules

If you plan to build a home, hunting cabin, or rental property, confirm that the intended use complies with local zoning and building requirements.

Short-term rentals may involve additional rules, permits, taxes, or licensing.

8. Review Environmental Conditions

Because the property includes a pond, nearby creek, and wooded land, investigate drainage, wetlands, flood risk, and any environmental restrictions that could affect construction or land use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the property located?

The property is located at 17402 Firesteel Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

How much land is included?

The property contains approximately 52.14 acres.

Is there year-round road access?

Yes. The listing describes year-round access from a county-maintained road.

Is there a pond?

Yes. The property includes an on-site pond.

Is there a creek nearby?

Yes. Cave Creek is nearby. Buyers should verify its exact location and relationship to the property boundaries.

Does the property have a barn?

Yes. It includes a historic barn estimated to be approximately 150 years old. Buyers can investigate restoration or potential reclaimed-material salvage.

Is there an existing house?

The property includes an existing structure dating to 1937 with a full basement. It is offered as-is and requires further evaluation.

Is the property near the Porcupine Mountains?

Yes. The listing describes the property as minutes from Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Buyers should verify the actual driving distance and route.

Is the property close to Lake Superior?

Yes. The property is described as being near Lake Superior, making it appealing to people who enjoy the lake and the surrounding outdoor attractions.

Could the property work as a hunting camp?

The wooded acreage and natural setting may appeal to hunters. Buyers should evaluate the land and confirm applicable hunting regulations and property-use rights.

Could the property become a vacation rental?

A future rental concept may be worth investigating because of the location near the Porkies and Lake Superior. However, buyers must confirm local rental regulations, building suitability, and market demand.

Your Upper Peninsula Opportunity Awaits

This 52.14-acre property at 17402 Firesteel Road offers a combination of privacy, natural beauty, and access to some of Michigan’s most recognizable outdoor destinations.

The on-site pond, mixed woods, nearby Cave Creek, year-round county-maintained road access, and historic barn give the property plenty of character. The existing 1937 structure with a full basement adds another feature for buyers to evaluate.

Whether you envision a year-round home, a private hunting camp, a seasonal getaway, or a possible rental investment, this property provides room to explore your plans.

Its location near Lake Superior and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park makes it especially interesting for buyers who appreciate outdoor recreation and the distinctive appeal of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

The next step is to walk the land, inspect the existing structures, verify utilities and building requirements, and decide how you would make the acreage your own.

52.14 acres. A private Upper Peninsula setting. A historic barn. A pond. And room to create your next chapter in Michigan.

 

Listed on Zillow