Steamboat Springs Ranches, Land and Hunting Properties

In the world of real estate investment, especially in ski areas, it is rare to have as much land available for private ownership and enjoyment so close to a major resort as there is in Steamboat Springs. Owning a Steamboat Springs ranch, land parcel or hunting property grants the owner a unique lifestyle many desire but only few possess. Imagine having the ability to raise livestock, ski cross-country, snowmobile, snowshoe, ride horseback, mountain bike, hike, four wheel, fish and hunt all within the privacy of your own family sanctuary – which also just happens to be only a few minutes away from a world class ski resort!

Nestled in a setting of unsurpassed beauty, Steamboat Springs ranches, land and hunting properties range in size from 10 to 35-acre ranchettes to several thousand-acre estates, all within a short drive of town. Some are nestled alongside the Routt National Forest, Flat Top Mountains / Wilderness Area, Mt Zirkel Wilderness Area, or even Bureau of Land Management property, giving the owner additional access to thousands of acres of public recreation and majestic mountain vistas. It’s not surprising, then, why these properties remain among the most sought-after real estate in the Yampa Valley.

Ownership of a Steamboat Springs ranch can bring the owner back in history, as it is a direct reflection of the area’s rich ranching heritage. While Steamboat Springs may be more internationally renowned for being “Ski Town USA,” the city’s character is defined as much by its being a ranching center as it is by its being a resort town. In fact, it is this mix of cattle ranching roots and international vacation destination status that makes Steamboat Springs stand out from the crowd. Here, where Stetsons are as ubiquitous as ski caps and the terrain is as diverse as it is beautiful, your options for enjoying the outdoors are virtually endless.

Cattle were first introduced into the Yampa Valley in 1871, and sheep arrived in the 1890’s. The approximately 500 ranches that now dot the Routt County landscape take advantage of the rich high country soils for hay, alfalfa, wheat, oat and barley production. Although the high altitude creates a short growing season, it produces high quality hay that is shipped to equestrian facilities throughout the country. To learn more about Routt County ranching, visit the Routt County Extension website.

If you’re a horse lover, there is no better location for an equestrian estate than the Yampa Valley. A variety of options are available, from a couple of acres in the country to a sprawling residence complete with a barn, outdoor and indoor riding arenas, a workshop, a tack room, a wash stall, corrals and even caretaker quarters. Finding a trail to ride or even someone to ride with is not difficult as a number of subdivisions have trail systems already in place for owners. If your riding skills are finely tuned, you can even sit high in your saddle and enter the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo every Friday and Saturday evening during the summer at the Romick Arena…or for a safer location, sit in the grand stands.

If you’re a hunter, Steamboat Springs is a hunter’s paradise. With an estimated 275,000 resident elk population, Northwest Colorado boasts the largest herd in Colorado, and possibly the nation. In addition to elk, a Steamboat Springs hunting property owner may find a number of other native animals residing on their property, such as mule and whitetail deer, antelope, bear, pheasant, grouse, mountain lion, bobcat and coyote. For additional information on big game hunting in Northwest Colorado, visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife website. With trophy game and an abundant, diverse and healthy population, there is no better place to own hunting property than Steamboat Springs.

Vast, naturally spectacular and affordable land is still available in Steamboat Springs. For those who purchase Steamboat Springs ranches, land and hunting properties, the rewards are immeasurable. These purchases can either be facilitated by traditional means, or possibly by 1031 exchanges, trades or conservation easements. An experienced buyer’s broker to guide you through the process is essential. Find out more about your Steamboat Springs home options with help from Steamboat Springs’ exclusive buyer’s agent Doug Labor today.