We built our dream lake house about 20 years ago for family gatherings and it now accommodates up to 20 guests. High vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, unique Northwoods furnishings, and two stories of windows provide an exceptional view of Big Lake and all it's beauty.
The great room overlooks the lake and is used for dining, relaxing by the fire, and enjoying the incredible views. Wildlife sightings are frequent, include eagles, loons, deer and more, and are right outside the door!
There is an attached three season screened in porch to keep the bugs away and a wood burning stove to keep the room toasty warm on those cool evenings. A huge deck runs the length of the house on the lakeside for additional seating to enjoy the magnificent views.
The kitchen is large and open with a huge island to have your morning coffee or to prepare food while socializing with other guests. It is well stocked with most everything you need to prepare wonderful meals for your entire group. There are two grills outside, one gas and one charcoal, along with a second refrigerator in the garage.
There are two bathrooms and three bedrooms on the first floor including the largest bedroom we call Kamp Kid as it has four twin beds with an adjacent bedroom with 2 twin beds.
The second floor has two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a comfortable sitting area in the loft that has the best view in the house!
The lower level is newly remodeled, has two bedrooms, a huge rec room (with a ping pong and foosball table), sitting area, kitchenette, and bathroom. From the lower level, there is a walk out patio complete with chairs, fire pit and access to the lake.
Birch Brae sits on a bluff facing Keith Island and has 29 stairs leading to a private dock. The water depth at the end of the dock is 26/27 inches. The lake is shallow with a sandy area near the dock which is fun for swimming and water activities. There are two kayaks, two canoes, oars, paddles, and personal flotation devices for your use.
Big Lake is a 827 acre lake and has a maximum depth of 61 feet. Visitors have access to the lake from two public boat landings, one is a mile away. Fish include pan fish, large and small mouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and the ever elusive musky! It's a fisherperson's delight!
Wakeboard boats and jets skis are not allowed.
Birch Brae is on The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System that offers more than 45 miles of paved trails connecting St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters. The property is 8 miles from Boulder Junction and 8 miles from Manitowish Waters. There are four bicycles and a tandem bike available for your use but bring your own helmets!
Vilas County is one of the world’s premier snowmobiling destinations. There are over 600 miles of spectacular trails that traverse unspoiled wilderness, crossing undeveloped lakes and connecting to scenic Northwoods communities. In all, Vilas County is home to a quarter million acres of public land.
The property is located in the Lake Superior snow belt so there's a lot of snow most winters. The area is home to some of the best snowmobiling clubs around and volunteers work tirelessly to keep trails in top condition.
Birch Brae offers the perfect Northwoods experience during any season!!
FYI, we do have a security camera that monitors the driveway.
