RECREATION

At 13± square miles, the Thieves’ Den Ranch is a multi-use, multi-recreational property in which the sum is greater than its individual parts. The amenities begin with opportunities to fish the private waters of Bates Creek, the nearby Miracle Mile of the North Platte River, and large reservoirs such as Alcova and Pathfinder Reservoirs. Backcountry opportunities include big game, upland bird, and predator hunting, hiking the rugged, boulder-filled canyon in the upper reaches of Bates Creek, and the many varied recreational pursuits found nearby Casper. 18 Thieves’ Den

F ishing

With nearly two miles of Bates Creek on deeded land and an additional 0.5± miles of Bates Creek accessible on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and State land, the ranch is its own private fishery. A true western brook trout stream, the upper stretch is littered with massive boulders, oxbows, undercut banks, and deep holes. The stream allows a person to get lost in time and wonder where the day went. Fish from six inches to ten inches are common in the stream. The creek holds both rainbow and brook trout. With the planned irrigation improvements and the addition of a diversion dam to be installed in Bates Creek, the water above the Gabion Dam should improve the fish habitat substantially.

In addition to the onsite fishing opportunities, the ranch is located approximately 18 miles from the North Platte River and its Blue Ribbon waters. Four public access points to the river within that 18mile envelope offer boat ramp facilities and stream access. The North Platte offers brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Approximately 55 miles from the ranch lies the famed Miracle Mile section of the North Platte River, known for its many fish and large brown trout.

Alcova Reservoir also lies east of the ranch, where one can catch walleye, rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown trout, and kokanee salmon.

h unting & W ildli F e

The ranch is truly one’s own private hunting sanctuary. Elk, antelope, mule deer, whitetail deer, turkey, and mountain lion can all be found on the ranch. Bates Creek is the main artery of the ecosystem on the ranch, providing habitat and water for many of the wildlife species. The steep canyons covered with juniper trees, rocky outcrops, and large, open basins are prime habitat for most big game animals. Much of the land is only accessible by horseback or on foot, which is one reason the animals are so plentiful.

Hunt areas:

• Antelope – Unit 32. (2 Landowner Permits)

• Deer – Unit 66 General tag

• Elk – Unit 19

• Mountain Lion – Unit 27

22 Thieves’ Den Ranch | Casper, Wyoming

The greater Casper area has capitalized on its recreational potential and offers unique opportunities for athletes and family outdoor fans. Casper Mountain is the backdrop for all of Casper, and the city has developed and supported Hogadon Basin Ski Area, a local destination for snow sports. Hogadon hosts the Casper Mountain Racers, which instruct and coach children in competitive snow sports. Casper also has a Nordic Ski Team and a Biathlon Club.

Mountain biking is a favorite summer activity on the mountain. The Fat Fish Racing organization hosts mountain bike rides and races to grow the local mountain biking community. The Mountain Trial Bike (MTB) Project has user guides for nine mountain biking trails.

The Casper Recreation Center is a hub of activity, from pickleball to softball, volleyball, and basketball leagues within the city. Family and competitive swimming and water sports, as are hockey, ice skating, and many other sporting pursuits, are available.