Backus Real Estate

Welcome to Backus, Minnesota—a charming small town nestled in the heart of Cass County. With its picturesque landscapes and friendly community, Backus offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal place for families, retirees, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Backus is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with an abundance of lakes, forests, and trails that invite outdoor adventures year-round. Whether you're fishing on the tranquil waters of nearby lakes or hiking through the lush woods, there’s no shortage of opportunities to connect with nature. The area is also known for its vibrant wildlife, providing a perfect backdrop for birdwatching and photography.

The town boasts a close-knit community that prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere. Local events and festivals foster a sense of belonging, allowing residents to come together and celebrate the rich culture and traditions of the area. With a variety of local shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities, Backus has everything you need for a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.

Education is a priority in Backus, with access to quality schools that nurture the minds of young learners. Families appreciate the safe environment and strong community values that make this town a great place to raise children.

If you're considering a move, Backus offers a unique blend of rural charm and modern conveniences. Experience the tranquility of small-town living while still being within reach of larger cities like Brainerd and Bemidji. Discover your dream home in Backus, where the beauty of nature meets the warmth of community!

Newest Listings in Backus

$544,900

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7141239 MLS

Welcome to your own slice of Up North paradise on beautiful Sylvan Lake in Backus, Minnesota! Set on an impressive 1.73 acres with 158 feet of lake frontage, this property offers privacy, space, incredible water clarity, and the perfect setting for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying everything lake life has to offer. The property features a sandy lake bottom and crystal-clear water, making it ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and soaking up the sunshine. The nicely landscaped grounds are surrounded by mature trees and abundant wildlife, creating a peaceful and private Northwoods atmosphere. Outdoor entertaining is a dream with a massive wrap-around patio/deck area, thoughtfully designed landscaping, and convenient steps leading down to the lake. A brand-new 30' x 36' garage provides plenty of room for vehicles, lake toys, recreational equipment, and storage. Inside, you'll find a warm and inviting Up North cabin feel with an open-concept layout, vaulted ceilings, and a cozy gas fireplace. The kitchen offers ample cabinet space and has been beautifully updated, creating a functional and welcoming gathering space. The main level features two bedrooms and a beautifully remodeled ¾ bathroom with a tile shower, new cabinets, and vanity. The large unfinished basement offers tremendous potential and could easily be finished to create additional living space, bedrooms, a family room, game room, or whatever your lake-home dreams require. The current owners have completed an impressive list of improvements since 2023, including: New patio/deck space, New steps to the lake with landscaping, Brand-new 30' x 36' garage, Updated gutters on the home, Over 500 trees planted, Upgraded driveway with additional gravel, Electrical added to the lakeside steps, Generac generator installed, Gas fireplace added New flooring throughout the main level, New kitchen cabinets, sink, backsplash, microwave, and refrigerator, Additional refrigerator added to the lower level, Remodeled main-level bathroom with tile shower, cabinets, and vanity, New interior doors, New roof, This is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully updated lake property with exceptional shoreline, acreage, privacy, sandy-bottom, swimming, incredible water clarity, and a long list of recent improvements already completed. Come enjoy the best of Minnesota lake living on Sylvan Lake — where the hard work has been done and your Up North memories are ready to begin!

1156 Stoneback Trail NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Edina Realty, Inc..

$1,295,000

4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7137638 MLS

From its soaring lakeside windows and massive stone fireplace to its extraordinary kitchen and specialized workshop spaces, this Sand Lake property is anything but ordinary. Set on 7.9 private acres with 510’ of hard-bottom shoreline, the home combines exceptional craftsmanship, expansive living spaces and a peaceful waterfront setting. Stone steps lead to a covered front porch framed by stone pillars, a wood ceiling and beautiful landscaping. Double glass doors with working colonial shutters open to a spacious foyer followed by an inviting sitting area with an illuminated built-in bookcase. Beyond the sitting area, the great room is filled with natural light from soaring windows that frame views of the grounds and lake. A floor-to-ceiling stone, wood-burning fireplace with a heat blower creates an impressive focal point. The kitchen was designed on a scale made for serious cooking and entertaining. A large Australian granite island includes a prep sink and two smaller dishwashers, while extensive wood cabinetry with glass inserts provides exceptional storage and display space. Double ovens, a bread-warming drawer, oversized side-by-side refrigerator/freezer, wine refrigerator and large granite peninsula complete the kitchen. An adjoining butler’s pantry adds another full-size dishwasher, no-touch sink and abundant cabinetry and shelving. Doors from the kitchen open to an expansive deck overlooking the yard and shoreline, creating a wonderful extension of the home’s entertaining space. The circular dining room is surrounded by views of the beautifully landscaped grounds, lake and lakeside waterfall. The main level also includes a guest bedroom with an en suite that can also serve as a powder room. The owner’s suite is particularly striking, with large architectural windows echoing those of the great room and separate his-and-her bathrooms, including one with a cleansing bidet. An open loft overlooks the great room and captures views through its soaring lakeside windows. Skylights bring additional natural light to two sleeping areas, a walk-through closet and 3/4 bath. The lower level adds even more living space, with a large family room with lake views, two additional bedrooms, each with a walk-in closet and full bath.There is also dedicated office space, extensive storage and a storm cellar with steel walls built into the rock. For anyone who works, creates or pursues a serious hobby from home, the property offers spaces rarely found in a residential setting. A large workshop features professional-grade woodworking equipment with ventilation, running water, in-floor heat and a garage door for bringing materials directly inside. A temperature and humidity controlled room, originally designed for violin making, offers possibilities for collections, photography, wine/cigars or other uses requiring a controlled environment. A separate office with its own bathroom provides additional flexibility for working from home. Even the practical spaces were thoughtfully designed. The attached garage has in-floor heat and a no-step, wheelchair-accessible entrance. Zoned heating and cooling add comfort throughout the home, while a dedicated dog-care room with a wash station and direct outdoor access is equally useful for cleaning up after time spent outdoors or on the water. Outside, the 7.9 acres provide an exceptional sense of space, with extensive landscaping, a lakeside waterfall and a level yard leading to 510 feet of hard-bottom shoreline. Sand Lake provides a peaceful backdrop for the property, with water views, wildlife and a quieter atmosphere away from the activity of a large recreational lake. With its craftsmanship, acreage, remarkable living and working spaces, extensive shoreline and beautiful surroundings, this is a property that stands apart, not simply for where it is, but for everything it offers.

1116 Sand Lake Drive NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Heartland Real Estate.

$399,900

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7138920 MLS

Country Living on 7 Acres — Modern Comfort Near the Northwoods’ Best Lakes. Experience the best of northern Minnesota living on this exceptional 7-acre property, where privacy, quality craftsmanship, and natural beauty come together. Surrounded by mature woods, the property features private walking paths perfect for year-round recreation, yet is conveniently located just minutes from some of the area’s most desirable lakes, including Birch Lake, Ten Mile Lake, Pine Mountain Lake, and legendary Leech Lake. Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, hunting, exploring, or simply relaxing in nature, this property puts it all within easy reach. Built in 2021, the thoughtfully designed home offers modern comfort and quality throughout. A paved circular driveway leads to the impressive heated and insulated 32' x 38' three-car garage, providing plenty of room for vehicles, recreational equipment, storage, or a workshop. The property also features two septic hookups and a 30-amp RV pedestal. Outdoor living is easy with the expansive 8' x 50' covered porch/patio, an ideal space for morning coffee, entertaining guests, or enjoying peaceful evenings surrounded by nature. Inside, the home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with 9-foot ceilings throughout and vaulted ceilings in the living, dining, and kitchen areas for a spacious, open feel. Transom windows bring in abundant natural light while adding distinctive architectural character. Comfort meets efficiency with epoxy flooring and in-floor heat powered by an on-demand boiler, providing cozy warmth throughout the home. The custom kitchen features beautiful knotty alder cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large center island—perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The spacious primary suite provides a relaxing private retreat with a walk-in closet. Maple trim and doors add warmth and timeless character throughout the home, while the large laundry room offers custom cabinetry and excellent storage. Additional updates and features include a new roof in 2025 and fiber internet directly to the home, giving you the connectivity and modern conveniences you want without sacrificing the peace and privacy of country living. If you’ve been looking for acreage, a newer home, exceptional garage space, and easy access to some of northern Minnesota’s most sought-after lakes, this property deserves a closer look. Come experience the privacy, comfort, and Northwoods lifestyle this exceptional property has to offer—schedule your showing today!

363 Pine Acres Trail NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Edina Realty, Inc..

$949,900

5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7119131 MLS

Two exceptional properties in one! This unique Ponto Lake offering features a one-of-a-kind lake home with character throughout, 2.39 acres of expansive, meticulously maintained grounds and landscaping, 190 feet of hard sand-bottom shoreline along the clean, crystal-clear waters of Ponto Lake, a detached 2 car garage along with an impressive heated six-car shop with an additional 1,700 square feet of living quarters. The 1.2-acre lot with lake home parcel and residence were recently appraised at $719,000. The additional property includes approximately 1,700 square feet of living quarters, and is currently rented for $1,750 per month with a tenant that currently maintains the grounds and handles snow removal. The shop and guest cabin alone had a construction cost of approximately $400,000 in 2005. Both properties are being sold together, offering a rare opportunity to enjoy premier lake frontage, beautifully maintained grounds, substantial garage and shop space, and additional rental income in one Ponto Lake estate.

1635 & 1627 E Ponto Lake Road NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.

$299,900

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7075715 MLS

Up North retreat, suited for year-round living or weekend getaways. Nestled on over 3 beautiful wooded acres, complete with a scenic pond, 5 campsites, each with water/sewer/electrical hookups—ideal for hosting family & friends or generating rental income. Finished heated garage with a sauna, storage shed and lots of space to build a larger primary home on tarred road close to some of the area’s best lake country fishing, hunting, ATV trails.

3574 State 87 NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Exit Realty Hometown Advantage.

$620,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7116632 MLS

Pine River Twp. – A doe and fawn wade in the shallow pond just below this striking 3BR/2BA show place perched above 13 private picturesque acres with heavy tree coverage. The home features slab on grade construction with in-floor heat, a security system, an attached heated garage and a bonus game room on the upper level. There is a 300 SF (+) basement utility room also providing storm shelter. The curb appeal is evident with an attractive smart siding exterior. The landscaping is inviting with a manicured lawn and a rock-work wall on the ascending driveway. The attention to detail has not been spared when looking at the quality workmanship involved. Soaring vaulted ceilings add to the charm of this amazing country estate.

1224 28th Avenue SW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Heartland Real Estate.

$149,900

7115361 MLS

Surrounded by mature trees, this 2.75-acre parcel offers a beautiful setting to build, relax, or simply enjoy the outdoors. A gated entrance provides a welcoming sense of privacy as you arrive. The impressive drive-through shed, complete with garage doors on both ends, offers easy access for storing boats, campers, recreational vehicles, or equipment. Whether you’re looking for a future home or a place to enjoy everything the area has to offer, this property provides the space and flexibility to make it your own.

4134 Division Street W, Backus

Listing courtesy of Heartland Real Estate.

$175,000

7115423 MLS

Need just a little more space than your garage can handle? Whether it's for your boat, RV, classic car, snowmobiles, ATVs, or recreational gear, these premium owned storage buildings have you covered! Own your space! With only a select number of buildings available, now is the time to secure yours. This 32x96 steel building features a concrete floor with in-floor heat tubing already installed, 8 daylight windows and service door, a generous 32x26 concrete apron, 14-foot sidewalls with 2x6 framing including vaulted ceilings, a 16x14 insulated overhead steel door with commercial opener, and connected electric service. Conveniently located just off Highway 371 in Backus, MN, you'll enjoy easy access year-round. Planned development amenities include a private community building with key-card access, featuring a bathroom, kitchenette, and gathering area, along with concrete roads throughout the development. Additional building packages and finish options are also available to customize your space to fit your storage needs. Looking for even more room?

4227 Mangy Moose Trail NW #6, Backus

Listing courtesy of Realty ONE Group Choice.

$184,900

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 7110955 MLS

Start making unforgettable memories at this two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin right on the water’s edge of Big Portage Lake. The large platform deck is the perfect place to sip your morning coffee and enjoy summer cookouts overlooking the lake. Inside, you’ll find true "up north" charm with tongue-and-groove ceilings and other beautiful wood accents throughout. After a fun-filled day in the sun, come inside and recharge in the comfort of the ductless mini-split A/C, which also provides heat on those colder days in the early spring or late fall. The cabin will be sold turn-key, with all of the furniture included, as well as many lake toys stored in your shed across the road.

1088 W Big Portage Lake Drive NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.

$359,900

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7102237 MLS

Enjoy the true Up North lifestyle with this 4-bedroom, 2-bath seasonal cabin featuring 100 feet of level frontage on Long Lake Number Two with a beautiful sandy shoreline. Surrounded by towering pines, this peaceful retreat offers excellent fishing, stunning lake views, and endless potential. The spacious living area features a full wall of windows overlooking the lake, creating the perfect place to relax and take in the scenery. Step outside onto the large deck overlooking the water, ideal for morning coffee, entertaining, or enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The full walkout basement is ready to be finished, offering the opportunity to add additional living space while building equity. The property also extends across the road, providing ample room for a garage, storage building, or future expansion.

2401 Birch Park Trail NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Real Broker, LLC.

$369,900

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 7107204 MLS

Turn Key, updated to be 4 season. Lake home on Big Portage lake. Large lot with perfect elevation to lake. New septic, well, roof, etc. Portage lake is part of 3 connected lakes with excellent fishing. OWNER Agent

2568 state 87 NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Princeton Realty.

$82,500

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 7104781 MLS

Big Portage Lake - Right on the price! Right on the water! This 40’x 60’ camper lot sports a 2019 Hampton Camper with state-of-the-art utility controls, stainless steel appliances, TV, center island, 2 BR/1BA w/loft and an outdoor kitchen w/stove top grill, microwave and refrigerator. The unit comes completely furnished with a “brand new” deck- all overlooking the 3 lake Portage Chain. A dock space is included with a common swimming beach area. The property has a 1/24th ownership in a co-op concept and includes an 8’x12’ storage shed.

1101 W Big Portage Lake Drive NW, Backus

Listing courtesy of Heartland Real Estate.

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