980 Mountain Forest Drive, Union Mills, NC

In the foothills of Western North Carolina, high-utility acreage of this scale and readiness remains a rare commodity. This 116-acre Union Mills estate functions as a turnkey private preserve, defined by a handcrafted log lodge and an infrastructure that would take years to replicate. The grounds transition from wooded ridges to open pasture, supported by four-stall cedar equestrian facilities and a detached garage with a secondary residence. Water is a defining element here, with two stocked ponds and multiple streams integrated into an extensive internal trail network. For the discerning buyer, the inclusion of 20 acres situated outside the homeowners association provides a level of land-use flexibility seldom found in managed mountain communities. This submarket continues to draw interest from those seeking a fortified legacy retreat without sacrificing proximity to regional hubs. The property serves as both a recreational sanctuary and a fully realized equestrian estate, equipped with three standby generators to ensure operational independence. Private viewings may be arranged through Peters & Associates.

About the home

116+ private acres in the foothills of Western North Carolina offering an exceptional combination of recreation, water, improvements and privacy. Located at the end of the community, this expansive Union Mills property features miles of trails, two stocked ponds, multiple streams, pasture, wooded acreage and established hunting areas. Approximately 20 acres lie outside the HOA, providing additional flexibility for recreational use. The property is extensively improved and includes a handcrafted log lodge, detached garage with apartment, large cedar barn with four stalls, tack area, loft, water and full bath, plus a separate cedar storage building. Three standby generators serve the main residence, garage apartment and well. Additional features include established deer stands, outdoor BBQ area and an extensive trail network providing access throughout the acreage. This is far more than a homesite—it's an established mountain estate offering the acreage, infrastructure and natural features that can take years to assemble. Ideal for a private retreat, recreational property, equestrian use, hunting or a legacy family estate. Also listed as Residential — MLS #4389604

Price in context

• 5th highest asking price of 9 active $1.5M+ homes in Union Mills.
• No price changes since it was listed.
• 0 days on the market, listed 2026-09-08.
• County tax assessment $1,189,600; the asking price is 1.51× the assessed value.
• HOA dues $840 (annually).

Location

Neighborhood: Cane Creek Mountain, Rutherford County, ZIP 28167.

Straight-line distances

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport: 54.2 mi
• Wilson Air Center (private aviation, CLT): 55.0 mi
• Uptown Charlotte: 59.1 mi

Features

Exterior

Fence, Fire Pit, Storage

View

Mountain(s), Water

Lot

Pasture, Pond(s), Private, Creek/Stream, Wooded, Views

Community

Gated

County

Rutherford

Comparable homes on the market

• 980 Mountain Forest Drive, Union Mills — $1,799,000, 5 bd, 2,505 sq ft, also in Cane Creek Mountain
• 316-318 Cane Creek Mountain Road, Union Mills — $1,250,000, 5 bd, 2,160 sq ft, 1.0 mi away
• 168 Robinwood Trail, Bostic — $3,990,000, 2.7 mi away
• 745 Mossy Oak Trail, Nebo — $1,050,000, 3 bd, 4,208 sq ft, 4.3 mi away
• 463 Summit Trail, Nebo — $1,845,000, 3 bd, 3,497 sq ft, 4.6 mi away
• 1418 Landis Lane, Nebo — $3,600,000, 3 bd, 4,143 sq ft, 4.6 mi away

See it privately

Nicholas and Miriam Peters show every home personally. Peters & Associates, 4401 Barclay Downs Dr #132, Charlotte, NC 28209. Office 704-264-4572. Request a private showing.