CANYON RANCH
Crawford, Colorado
$11,700,000
663± Acres
Crawford, Colorado
$11,700,000
663± Acres
Traveling across lush farmland approaching the road down to the Canyon Ranch gate, a stunning experience awaits the unsuspecting visitor. Rounding the corner and taking in the first glimpse of what can best be described as an Edenlike setting, lies the 663± acre Canyon Ranch. Smith Fork Creek, a large fishing pond, hayfields, a vineyard, equestrian facilities, main lodge, and multiple cabins are all framed by a private picturesque canyon rising along the ranch boundary.
Smith Fork Creek is the heart of the property, and the ranch enjoys substantial water rights, allowing for many of the ranch’s features. Wildlife is abundant because, like every waterway, Smith Fork Creek provides a corridor for many species, including mule deer, elk, black bear, bobcats, and various smaller mammals and birds. The ranch is protected by a flexible conservation easement, allowing for an additional building site and one subdivision. Trail riders will enjoy access from the ranch to trails in adjacent Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is only 5± miles from the ranch as the crow flies.
Canyon Ranch’s central-western Colorado location lends reasonable driving times to many desirable destinations, such as the Roaring Fork Valley and Aspen, Telluride, Montrose, Gunnison, and Grand Junction. Of course, the Crawford Airport and FBO are only minutes from the ranch and offer a great alternative to driving. There are income-producing opportunities, both agricultural and from a possible guest ranch or retreat. This ranch will surprise you with its beauty and wealth of possibilities.
1 Canyon Ranch | Crawford, Colorado
• Private canyon encompassing 663± acres
• Smith Fork Creek runs throughout the ranch
• Main lodge with 10 bedrooms
• Equestrian barn with private apartment
• Multiple cabins and residences
• Your own private vineyard and orchard
• Borders BLM and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison River
• Significant water rights
• Ultimate family or corporate retreat
• Stocked pond and recreational amenities
• Stone artisan cabin
• 663± deeded acres
The vast majority of the ranch lies in a wide, lush creek bottom teeming with a variety of wildlife and plantlife. The land is mostly cultivated, with hayfields, a fenced orchard, and a vineyard.
The approach to Canyon Ranch reveals a sharp contrast between vertical rock precipices and the gorgeous bottomland of Smith Fork Creek. From the ranch itself, there are dramatic views of the canyon walls. Not far from the ranch, the Gunnison River flows through the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park.
The main lodge can accommodate over twenty guests and has a large finely equipped kitchen, gathering rooms, and the ideal outdoor porch that make it perfect for family get-togethers, a company retreat center, or a guest ranch. The conservation easement allows for those activities. There are several private cabins and other smaller staff residences on the ranch. A first-class drive-through barn with an apartment and multiple tack rooms is the heart of the equestrian and agricultural operation.
Canyon Ranch is a great place for all outdoor pursuits, exploring adjacent BLM lands to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison River and the ranch itself. The ranch has a specialized equestrian facility for horse and livestock enthusiasts.
Hiking, mountain biking, and off-road vehicles on the ranch and BLM land offer hours of adventure for all ages and abilities. World-class flyfishing is only minutes away on the Gunnison River, and there are various hunting opportunities on the ranch and in the immediate area. Fish yards from your doorstep on the ranch pond, which can and has been stocked with trout. Mule deer, elk, black bear, and other animal species are present on the ranch and may be hunted with the proper license.
A conservation easement protects Canyon Ranch. The easement does allow the use of the ranch as a retreat, guest ranch, or wedding venue. The ranch is well suited for all those purposes and offers a great potential revenue stream. Agricultural production components can add to your income as well.
Crawford, Colorado, nestled in the scenic North Fork Valley, boasts a rich history shaped by its agricultural roots and picturesque surroundings. Established in the late 19th century, the town flourished as a hub for ranchers and farmers drawn to its fertile land and temperate climate. Named after Colonel Thomas A. Crawford, a prominent figure in local mining ventures, Crawford saw growth with the arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in 1902, facilitating trade and connecting it to broader markets. Throughout the 20th century, Crawford evolved into a close-knit community known for its orchards, vineyards, and cattle ranches, contributing significantly to Colorado’s agricultural heritage. Today, Crawford remains a tranquil haven whose history harmoniously blends with its artisanal shops and cozy cafes, experiencing the laid-back pace of rural Colorado life while soaking in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and rolling hills.
Near the Canyon Ranch and Crawford, many outdoor activities and local events await visitors throughout the year. The nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park beckons with its dramatic cliffs and challenging trails for hiking and rock climbing enthusiasts. Anglers can explore the Gunnison River, renowned for its excellent trout fishing opportunities. The region hosts festivals celebrating local produce and arts in summer, such as the Cherry Days Festival in nearby Paonia. Wine aficionados can indulge in tastings at the numerous vineyards dotting the North Fork Valley, known for their award-winning wines. The ranch is a little over an hour and a half from the Roaring Fork Valley, where many events are held each year in towns like Aspen, Carbondale, Basalt, and Snowmass.
The Canyon Ranch sits only two and a half hours from Telluride, which hosts several world renowned festivals.
Canyon Ranch enjoys distinct seasons: warm, dry summers (70s-90s°F) with minimal rain; cold, snowy winters below freezing; and mild spring/fall for outdoor activities. These conditions are ideal for agriculture, including thriving fruit orchards and vineyards.
Climate charts courtesy of https://www.city-data.com/city/Crawford-Colorado.html
Canyon Ranch has a strong portfolio of senior water rights, including reservoir storage rights with various decree dates pertaining to several irrigation ditches. Domestic potable water is supplied via a municipal pipeline with additional taps dedicated to the ranch. A buyer should evaluate these rights as part of his due diligence.
The Canyon Ranch is located just west of Crawford, Colorado, and a maximum two-hour drive to several key population centers, such as the Roaring Fork Valley, Montrose, Grand Junction, Telluride, Gunnison, Ouray, and Glenwood Springs.
From Hotchkiss, Colorado, follow Highway 92 through Hotchkiss “Main Street.” Turn left on Cedar Drive (Siddons North Fork Feed is on the left). Go 1.5 miles, and turn right at Scenic Mesa Road. Trave 4.2 miles and veer to the left, following Scenic Mesa Road along the Canyon rim to the Y with Fruitland Mesa Road. Turn right at the Y on Fruitland Mesa Road and go down into the canyon about 0.8 miles. Make a right and turn into the Canyon Ranch gate/driveway.
The Canyon Ranch is protected by a conservation easement that has some flexibility. The easement trustee is the Black Canyon Regional Land Trust. Easement documents are available for serious buyers to view.
Each of us at Fay loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape.
The Canyon Ranch near Crawford, Colorado, is a great choice for a discerning buyer looking for a quality ranch with water, agricultural production, and other income-producing opportunities. The ranch is easily accessible year-round via automobile or private plane. Privacy is also a hallmark of the ranch, and the serenity is heart-healing. Several great improvements include a large main lodge that can sleep over 20 people, a large drive-through equestrian barn, and several other cabins and residences.
The lushness of the the ranch contrasts with the surrounding landscape, providing gorgeous views. Consider this ranch as one of the top family retreat choices in Colorado.
Please contact Ren Martyn at (970) 846-3118 | rmartyn@fayranches.com or Jim Vidamour at (719) 890-4590 | jvidamour@fayranches.com to schedule a showing. This is an exclusive listing. An agent from Fay must be present at all showings, unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties, fly fishing properties, and sporting ranches that we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com.
$11,700,000 Cash
Conventional Financing 1031 Exchange
Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.
| 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
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