Property Description

A truly one-of-a-kind Northern Michigan property, this remarkable 40-acre parcel offers a rare combination of history, natural beauty, privacy and extraordinary development potential. Surrounded on two sides by the Huron National Forest, the property enjoys a spectacular wooded setting with Comins Creek crossing the rear of the acreage before flowing into the renowned AuSable River, located approximately one mile to the south. Once home to the Michigan AuSable Valley Railroad, this property was originally developed as a popular tourist attraction where visitors boarded a miniature passenger train for an 18-minute scenic journey through the picturesque jack pine forest. While the train itself is no longer on the property, much of the fascinating railroad character remains through an exceptional collection of purpose-built structures. Overlooking the beautiful Comins Creek Valley to the west is a 750-square-foot rustic home, originally built in 1960, offering two bedrooms and two baths. Its peaceful setting and elevated valley views make it an ideal owners retreat, guest cottage or base for a future recreational venture. Adding tremendous character to the property is a turn-of-the-century-style Victorian railroad station, constructed in 1994. Measuring approximately 12 x 48, the station features custom doors, traditional wood-slat siding and an inviting interior finished in tongue-and-groove wood walls and ceilings. The former engine house, also constructed in 1994, measures approximately 18 x 72 and incorporates numerous custom features reflecting the propertys railroad heritage. A 24 x 40 freight house, built in 1998, features six custom doors and could readily serve as an impressive four-car garage, workshop, equipment building or recreational storage facility. The largest structure is the substantial 32 x 106 office and warehouse building, constructed in 2003. The interior is finished with painted drywall and fluorescent lighting and is served by two separate heating and cooling systems. An attached three-car garage provides additional storage and utility. With approximately 40 acres, multiple substantial buildings, creek frontage, National Forest bordering two sides and the AuSable River approximately one mile away, the possibilities here are exceptional. The property could lend itself beautifully to a private family compound, corporate or recreational retreat, outdoor recreation headquarters, event venue, specialty commercial operation, lodging concept, or a revival of its tourism heritage. Few Northern Michigan properties combine this much acreage, infrastructure, history and natural beauty in one setting. The former Michigan AuSable Valley Railroad property represents an opportunity to own not simply 40 acres, but a memorable piece of Northern Michigan history surrounded by the forests and waterways that make the region so special.

Property Features