HIDDEN AMONG 88 ACRES OF LUSH FORESTLAND, THIS LUXURIOUS LAKEFRONT HOMESTEAD IS A NATURE LOVER’S ARCADIA

BY AMANDA McCOY

Deep in the heart of rolling forestland in Vernon, a one mile private road winds through the wild, passing scores of thick green trees until it finally culminates at a two acre clearing along the lakefront. Here, a magnificent 4,500 square foot log cabin mansion overlooks the water, offering a quixotic escape into nature, where total tranquility and seclusion become reality. Welcome to 1 Mud Pond Trail, a little slice of sublime secrecy. “Our main prerequisite while looking at homes was privacy,” the owners explained.

“Our second desire was that we did not want to live more than one hour from NYC. After looking for two years, we came across our property; it had a tiny house on it that was built in 1951. It was totally private and one hour from NYC, so we decided to build our log house.”

Private it is, spanning 88 densely forested acres and overlooking a personal 25 acre lake. Because the property is encased by hundreds of acres of Newark Watershed real estate, the surrounding land can never be built upon, ensuring the homestead will permanently remain an exclusive wonderland for its inhabitants.

Miles of private hiking trails, a sandy beach, a boat dock, and panoramic lake and mountain views make this estate a true nature lover’s playground. During the warmer seasons, the lake comes to life with paddle boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming, while activities like ice skating and cross country skiing fill the colder months. A snow shredding day on the slopes is only a brisk car ride away.

“This home offers unrivaled privacy and seclusion in a truly enchanting setting,” said real estate agent Joshua Baris, the proprietor of NJLux.com. “Whether the day calls for tranquil mornings on the terrace, drinking coffee and watching the sun reflect off the surface of the lake, or an afternoon of adventure, this home provides.”

The four bedroom, four and a half bath main residence was custom built and offers magnificent views of either the lake or the mountains from every window. The home’s palpable grandeur can be felt the moment one steps onto the stone path leading to the front entrance.

“For the path leading to the front doors, I used natural blue stone,” explained the owner. “The same multi colored slate entrance is continued from the outside to the inside foyer, which makes a wonderful flow when stepping into the house.”

The rustic wooden front doors open to reveal tall vaulted ceilings, a bright and spacious layout, and exquisite details. The sun soaked great room is anchored in a massive stone fireplace that stretches from the floor to the ceiling and provides a perfect gathering place for cozy evenings around the fire. To the side, double doors lead to a wraparound terrace with prime lake and forest views and enough space for an outdoor dining table.

The picturesque scenery continues in the kitchen, which is outfitted with all modern luxuries and appliances yet is still dripping with rustic charm. A sunny eating nook is attached, featuring an oversized window to maximize visibility of the peaceful outdoor setting. A more formal dining room is one room over, decorated with a tremendous antler inspired chandelier.

While the lake and lush landscape might usher people outside, there are ample opportunities for play and leisure indoors. Downstairs, a sprawling recreation room features a hand carved pool table, additional fireplace, and plenty of space for games and revelry. Need to work up a sweat? A dedicated fitness room is fully stocked with commercial grade equipment, including a treadmill, elliptical, weight machines, and free weights.

Moving through the house, thoughtful treasures are ready to be discovered around every corner, from built in bookshelves and work stations to decorative bathroom sinks. The high ceilinged master suite is connected to a resort caliber bathroom, finished with an oversized Jacuzzi tub, beautifully appointed his and her sinks, and a separate glass enclosed shower. A large rectangular window ensures a constant stream of natural light.

Once outside, a slate and stone veranda is dotted with multiple lounge chairs and an additional dining table, ideal for al fresco meals and refreshments when the weather is pleasant. But even on chillier evenings, the fresh woodland air can still be enjoyed in the hot tub, and once the sun sets, get ready for the sky to put on a show. Far from the lights of the city, the stars are free to sparkle and shine.

“Another spectacular feature of this home is the prime location,” said Baris. “Because of its close proximity to NYC and the major economic hubs of Northern New Jersey, it could either be a great vacation and weekend home or a primary residence. I think coming back to your own personal lake every night would be a dream come true.”

There is also a separate bonus cottage on the property, offering three additional bedrooms, a full bath, living room, kitchen, and an attached garage with enough space for another three cars.

The home is available for $3,888,888.
Joshua Baris / Coldwell Banker
Residential Brokerage Global Luxury Division
375 Park Avenue, Suite 21 / Fort Lee / 201.741.4999 (c)
NJLux.com