1056 Smith Road · Traverse City, MichiganOffered at $1,800,000
The ranchThe areaEquestrian & country life

East Bay Ranch buyer guide · Rooted in the ranch

A horse-country story.
A vision of your own.

Horses are part of East Bay Ranch’s history. The region’s horse-show scene adds another point of connection, while the property itself invites a thoughtful look at what its next chapter could be.

  • Equestrian roots
  • Historic barn
  • Regional horse shows
Stable aisle and stalls
The ranch’s historic barn. Condition, suitability, and any proposed use require assessment.

01 / A genuine history

The story is already here.

Friesian horses, breeding and boarding, gardens, and hands-on farm life are part of East Bay Ranch’s agricultural story. The farmhouse, historic barn, and pastoral setting give that history a tangible connection to the property today.

The current offering is 16.48 acres. Past horses, livestock, businesses, and services are not represented as part of the sale or as proof of what may operate here now. Appreciate the heritage, then assess the present property and any proposed use on their own merits.

02 / The property opportunity

Character to preserve. Details to assess.

The published listing describes a historic barn and stalls as a restoration opportunity, alongside pasture and a wooded trail. For someone drawn to an agricultural landscape, those elements give the property an identity that a vacant parcel does not have.

Before planning horses or another animal use, assess the barn structure, stall condition, fencing, water, drainage, access, and land management with qualified advisers. Confirm permitted uses and any improvements with East Bay Charter Township. No ready-to-operate boarding business, riding facility, or guaranteed animal capacity is advertised.

03 / The regional equestrian scene

Spend a day at Flintfields.

Flintfields Horse Park in Williamsburg is home to Traverse City Horse Shows. The organizer describes hunter, jumper, and equitation competition, along with spectator resources and featured events. It is a regional destination to explore whether you follow the sport closely or simply enjoy watching.

The current schedule and spectator guide are the right places to check competition dates, tickets, venue access, and parking. Use a live route from the ranch to plan your visit; proximity does not imply any affiliation, access privilege, or business relationship with the property.

04 / Make the land your own

A slower day can be a full day.

The appeal is not limited to horses. Established gardens, mature trees, pasture, and the farmhouse porch support a vision centered on tending the landscape, spending time outdoors, and bringing an older property forward with care.

During a showing, walk the usable areas, understand the terrain, and discuss maintenance and restoration priorities. Ask for current surveys, inspections, and applicable restrictions. For event ideas, read the separate conditional approval carefully: it is not an unrestricted venue authorization, and the approved proposal excludes barn events.

Before you decide

Make it your own research.

  • Inspect structures, fencing, water, drainage, and access before planning an animal use.
  • Confirm zoning, restrictions, permits, and ongoing care needs with the appropriate professionals.
  • Treat historical operations and regional horse shows as context, not an income or use guarantee.

From 1056 Smith Road

Turn the guide
into a day out.

Explore official resources and open routes from the ranch. Travel times depend on the route, traffic, weather, and season; no fixed commute is promised.

Evening on the farmhouse patio

Make it your next chapter

Some places need
to be experienced.

Walk the gardens. Step into the barn. Sit for a moment on the porch. Discover what life at East Bay Ranch could look like for you.

Michelle MackeyListing agent · Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices - TC

Private showings by appointment. Please confirm current price, availability, and showing arrangements with the listing agent.