9704 Howards Lick Road

High atop Branch Mountain, this four-bedroom, two-bath mountain retreat sits on 7+ acres with the kind of panoramic view that is difficult to fully understand until you are standing in front of it. From its perch at the peak of the mountain, the landscape falls away into an open meadow and then rises again in layer after layer of Appalachian ridgelines stretching seemingly forever toward the horizon. From this remarkable vantage point, the mountains provide a constantly changing backdropfrom spectacular sunrises and morning light sweeping across the ridges to unforgettable sunsets at the end of the day. The property fronts directly on a paved, state-maintained road, offering easy year-round access while remaining exempt from HOA dues. Lost River State Park is just minutes away, with miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, a swimming pool and thousands of acres to explore. With its chalet-inspired rooflines, upper-level balconies and distinctive new copper-toned standing-seam metal roof, the home feels completely at home in its dramatic mountaintop setting. New Pella windows throughout frame the peaceful views from nearly every vantage point. The open kitchen, dining and main living areas are the heart of the home, overlooking the meadowfrequently visited by deer and other wildlifeand the mountains beyond. Hardwood floors and a highly efficient wood-burning stove with soapstone surround and wood mantel bring warmth to the main living space, while a separate den/media room offers a cozy second place to gather. Three bedrooms are upstairs, including an exceptionally spacious primary bedroom with a private balcony facing the panoramic mountain views. A second bedroom has a balcony of its own, while the fourth bedroom is conveniently located on the main level and works equally well as a guest room or home office. A generous mudroom/foyer connects directly to the oversized attached 1.5-car garage with laundry. Outside, the home offers multiple ways to experience its extraordinary setting throughout the day. Start the morning with sunrise views from the deck, settle in for dinner or sunset on the absolutely massive screened porch, or soak in the oversized hot tub on the concrete patio as the mountains fade into a star-filled sky. The screened porch easily accommodates multiple seating areas and a large dining table, with oversized openings that bring the mountain views and landscape right into the space. Natural stone hardscaping leads to established garden areas and a firepit, while distinctive rain-chain gutters add even more character. Lovingly maintained and extensively improved, the home is ready for comfortable year-round mountain living with a new two-zone central HVAC/heat-pump system, highly efficient wood-burning stove and backup generator with transfer switch. Together with the new standing-seam metal roof and Pella windows, the home's most important systems and features have been thoughtfully addressed. Being at the top of the mountain doesn't mean sacrificing connectivity. Native cellular service, fiber-optic internet and Starlink availability make working remotely, streaming and staying connected easy. Short-term rentals are permitted, offering flexibility as a full-time residence, weekend retreat or investment property. Beyond the property, enjoy easy access to hiking, fishing and year-round recreation throughout Mathias and Lost River, along with nearby markets, restaurants and boutique shops in those communities and in Moorefield. Once you experience life at the top of Branch Mountain, you may find very little reason to leave. Explore every detail through the Interactive Virtual Tour and Video Walkthrough linked with this listing.