Some properties stop you in your tracks. This is one of them. Set on 16.3 extraordinary acres in Grant with direct frontage on West Bass Lake, the land here tells a story that started long before you arrived -- some of the oaks on the property were saplings during the Civil War.
Native prairie, a spring-fed pond, two pasture areas, and a private shoreline point complete a landscape that genuinely has to be walked to be understood.
West Bass Lake is exceptionally clear and offers some of the best largemouth bass fishing in the area. Kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or swim in summer. Lace up your skates or ski straight down the lake and around the ponds in winter -- miles of trail wind through the property with viewing benches placed at scenic spots along the way. In every season, the land gives you something new.
Wildlife here is not occasional -- it's a way of life. A pair of sandhill cranes returns to the pond every spring. Baltimore Orioles and Bluebirds nest in summer. Swans, wood ducks, eagles, owls, warblers, buffleheads, and hawks move through seasonally. Deer and turkeys are daily visitors, with fox and otter making regular appearances. The current owners describe it simply: the trees and water define the property.
The split-level home sits comfortably in this setting -- warm, welcoming, and sized just right for both everyday living and large gatherings. The main level features a family room with hardwood floors, wood beam ceilings, built-in bookshelves, and a brick-surround wood-burning fireplace. A season porch with French doors and paneled ceilings looks out over the property with views that shift beautifully with every season. The eat-in kitchen with center island, wall oven, cooktop, and updated appliances has a way of pulling everyone in -- the sellers note it's always surprising how many people end up gathered around that island. A formal dining room with hardwood floors rounds out the main level.
Upstairs are three bedrooms including a primary suite with walk-in closet and three-quarter bath, plus a full bath with Jacuzzi tub. The lookout lower level offers polished concrete floors, a family room with gas fireplace, a second rec room with surround sound, a fourth bedroom, and great storage under the stairs. A 20x12 composite deck with aluminum railings and a handsome paver sidewalk extend the living outdoors.
The outbuildings are ready to work. A 30x30 pole barn with water, electric, a freeze-proof pump, and loft includes a loafing shed and 12x15 horse stall on the back. Fenced horse pastures, a fully enclosed dog run with dog doors into the garage, and a half-acre of prairie grass round out a property that has been genuinely loved and thoughtfully maintained.
Mahtomedi school district. 25 minutes to either downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul. For everything this property offers, that might be the most surprising detail of all.
