Big Stick Ranch

Executive Summary

Nestled against the south shoulders of the La Plata Mountains, Big Stick Ranch embodies the essence of Colorado mountain country — sweeping alpine views, solitude, and endless adventure. From its high plateaus and old-growth aspen forests to open meadows framed by towering peaks, the land feels timeless. It’s the kind of place that invites you to build your vision from the ground up — a blank canvas where a home, barn, and trail network could rise from pure mountain air. The north boundary touches the San Juan National Forest, offering immediate access to wild country that seems to stretch forever. Elk and deer wander through daily, the sunsets over Baldy Peak (10,850’), Silver Mountain (12,388’) and Hesperus Mountain (13,232’) are theatrical, and yet Durango’s historic main street is just 15 minutes away.

For the analytical buyer, Big Stick Ranch totals approximately 605± deeded acres — a large holding within 13 miles of downtown Durango and north of Highway 160. With nearly one mile of boundary with the San Juan National Forest and another mile with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, it offers extraordinary adjacency for hunting, horseback riding, and recreation. The property’s terrain spans from 8,400 to 9,260 feet in elevation with healthy aspen, Douglas fir, spruce, serviceberry, and Gambel oak. Located in Game Management Unit 74, the ranch supports excellent wildlife populations, leases seasonally to an outfitter, and is unencumbered by improvements or conservation easements — providing full flexibility for a legacy estate or recreational retreat.

Property Highlights

• 605± deeded acres within 15 minutes (13 miles) of downtown Durango

• Borders approximately 1 mile of San Juan National Forest and 1 mile of BLM land

• Adjacent to 6,450-acre Perins Peak State Wildlife Area (SWA)

• Elevations range from 8,400’ to 9,260’ with sweeping mountain views

• Vegetation includes Gambel oak, serviceberry, chokecherry, aspen, Douglas fir, and spruce

• Mix of open meadows, wooded slopes, and old-growth aspen transitioning to new growth

• Access via County Road 124 and recorded easement across Indian Shadow Ranch

• Water features include a natural spring and wildlife water tanks

• Currently leased to a licensed hunting outfitter (year-to-year basis)

• No conservation easement, no structural improvements

• Located in Game Management Unit 74, known for strong elk and deer populations

• 25-minute drive to Durango–La Plata County Airport (9,201’ paved runway)

Ideal Uses

The Big Stick Ranch is an opportunity to create something lasting — a true mountain retreat that reflects the owner’s vision. Whether you imagine horses grazing in the meadows, an architect-designed mountain home overlooking Hesperus Peak, or a private hunting base that doubles as a family legacy property, this ranch offers the scale, access, and setting to bring it to life.

• Build a custom home or legacy estate near Durango

• Develop equestrian or livestock facilities

• Establish a private hunting and recreation base

• Preserve as open space or long-term land investment

• Ideal combination of proximity, privacy, and natural beauty

On-Ranch Recreation and Hunting

For those who live for the outdoors, Big Stick Ranch delivers a genuine backcountry experience right out the gate. Miles of game trails wind through the aspens and across open meadows, connecting directly into over 165,000 acres of National Forest. Whether on horseback, ATV, or foot, the terrain rewards exploration in every season — and when fall arrives, it transforms into a hunter’s paradise.

• Located in GMU 74 — known for elk, deer, bear, and turkey hunting

• Existing Year-to-year hunting lease with a professional outfitter

• Species observed: elk, mule deer, black bear, dusky (blue) grouse, turkey, rabbit, and squirrel

• Nearly 1 mile of direct access to San Juan National Forest (165,000+ acres)

• BLM land and Perins Peak SWA adjacency for extended recreation and hunting access

• Natural spring and wildlife water tanks support habitat year-round

• Terrain suited for horseback riding, hiking, and off-road exploration

Nearby Recreation and Local Life

While Big Stick Ranch feels worlds away, it’s only minutes from one of Colorado’s most dynamic small towns. Durango blends Western character with art, history, and outdoor culture — offering everything from fine dining and live music to world-class skiing, rafting, and trail riding. The nearby La Plata Mountains, Mesa Verde, and San Juan National Forest make this region a magnet for adventure and authenticity.

• 13 miles (15 minutes) to downtown Durango’s shops, restaurants, and galleries

• 25 minutes to Durango–La Plata County Airport (commercial and private service)

• 45 minutes to Purgatory Resort for skiing and summer mountain activities

• Nearby attractions: Mesa Verde National Park, Chimney Rock National Monument, Canyon of the Ancients, Hovenweep

• Endless trail systems for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking

• Fishing and rafting on the Animas River

• Easy access via U.S. Highway 160 and County Road 124

Price

$5,750,000