4535 N River Rd

A once-in-a-generation Freeland estate brimming with character and heart: over 8,368 sq. ft. of living space on 5.55 magical acres, graced by mature apple and pear trees that whisper the history of the Bintz family—creators of “Bintz Apple Mountain Resort”. The property consists of two separate parcels being sold together: 28-12-3-03-3010-002 (2.17 acres with the residence) and 28-12-3-03-3010-001 (3.38 acres of back yard, creek, fire pit, and 20+ fruit trees). The home is tucked back on a winding drive, surrounded by trees for peace and privacy. While it backs to the serene 10th fairway and 11th green of Apple Mountain Golf Course, a tall wooden fence ensures complete seclusion from the course and public. Step inside to a dramatic foyer entry leading into a great room lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and Douglas Fir exposed beams that crown soaring wood ceilings and frame sweeping wooded views. Gathering spaces are both impressively large and warmly quaint. The well-appointed kitchen sits between the formal living room and a huge eating area, perfect for entertaining or everyday living. Custom made one- of-a-kind lighting fixtures throughout the house and pool room adds to the artistic flair and unique ambiance throughout. The main floor offers two bedrooms with a full bath, while a grand stairway leads to the expansive primary suite retreat. The main floor library offers a fireplace and built-in bookshelves. A full basement bedroom provides even more living space, and a 3-car garage plus whole-house Generac generator and partial home air conditioning add practicality to the home’s character. The dramatic indoor pool room/wing features rich brick flooring and walls, a shimmering 20’×40’ (11’ deep end, w/diving board) Beattie pool, and its own shower, bath, changing room, and laundry - ideal for year-round enjoyment. Outdoors, mornings begin with soft light through the trees, afternoons glow in dappled shade, and sunsets and evenings sparkle with fireflies in the orchard. Despite its private wooded setting, the property is only minutes from Freeland schools, shopping, Midland and Saginaw conveniences—an ideal balance of retreat and accessibility. The Bintz family’s legacy is woven into this land. From their nearby orchard, John and Joan Bintz (members of the Michigan Ski Hall of Fame) built (1961) what was known as “Bintz’s Bump,” the country’s first man-made ski hill, a beloved landmark that, for decades, drew hundreds of thousands of families together and helped shape the community and snow skiing sport. Today, this estate carries forward that same spirit of family, community, and love for the land.