Windy Ridge – Conservation Homestead – 187 ± Acres in Monroe County’s Driftless Area of Wisconsin

Welcome to Windy Ridge — a 187 ± acre conservation homestead in the scenic Driftless Region of Monroe County, near Ontario, Wisconsin. This remarkable property blends comfortable country living, long-term land stewardship, and unmatched natural beauty into one extraordinary private retreat. The phrase “once in a lifetime opportunity” is an understatement when describing this special, special place.

Set among rolling ridges, restored prairie, and spring-fed creeks that flow into the Kickapoo River, Windy Ridge has been managed with great care and respect for the land. Decades of thoughtful conservation have created a mosaic of 115± acres of mixed hardwoods, pine forest, apples and pears, 47+ acres of prairie, and 10+ acres of deer/wildlife food plots, 8+ acres are comprised of the farmstead and cabin — all supporting abundant wildlife and a healthy ecosystem. Three natural springs feed a clear year-round creek protected by a DNR conservation easement. Rock out croppings located throughout the property will take your breath away while providing memorable family adventures. Walking through the pollinator/rich prairie plantings that bloom from spring into fall will be event no one will want to miss out on.

A charming two-story farmhouse serves as the heart of the property, offering modern comfort and vintage character. The updated farmhouse features: 4+ bedrooms, 1 bath, large kitchen, family/dining room, living room, office, plenty of storage, and more. Internet and cell service is very good if keeping in touch with the outside world is important to you. There is an Amish-built cabin (16’×32’ with loft, and a 8’x32’ front porch) which provides a peaceful guest space or artist’s retreat, while the barn, pole buildings, several sheds, and game-processing building offer ample room for equipment, livestock, or hobbies. Optional furnishings and equipment make this a turnkey opportunity for anyone looking to step into rural living with ease.

Deer Management on Windy Acres has been taken to the highest level! There are over 10 acres of food plots and over 20 deer stands (some box binds) located throughout the property. Quality Deer Management (QDM) has been practiced here for almost 15 years by the owners and many neighbors. In fact, 3.5 year and older bucks are the rule rather than the exception. 4.5 year and older bucks are frequently caught on trail cameras, seen while on the deer stand, while sitting on the front porch of the cabin, and while touring or working on the property. The owners are founding members and active volunteers of the Coulee Country Branch of the Quality Deer Management Association (now named the National Deer Association) since its inception in 2016. The property has been enrolled in the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) since 2015, and the owners were awarded the 2019 Cooperator of the Year Award! Detailed deer observation and harvest data are kept by the owners, an important part of both QDM and DMAP management programs.

More than 35,000 trees have been planted by the owners over the last 23 years. These include: Red and White Oak, White and Red Pine, Norway and White Spruce, Cherry, Hickory, Red and Sugar Maple, Apple, Pear, Chestnuts, and more. Several Maple stands offer syrup production potential.

The property has earned several awards for habitat and forestry excellence, including the Pheasants Forever Habitat Award (2017), Wisconsin Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) Cooperator of the Year (2019), and Monroe County Tree Farmer of the Year (2022).

Conveniently located near Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Elroy-Sparta Trail, and Kickapoo River, Windy Ridge is perfectly situated for those who value privacy, nature, and self-sufficiency. Whether you envision a full-time homestead, conservation-minded residence, or peaceful country retreat, this property offers a rare balance of livability and land legacy.

Contact Midwest Lifestyle Properties today to experience this extraordinary property where home, habitat, and heritage come together.