The Property

North Mountain Ranch, held by the Hughes family for some 80 years, is now available to a new owner because of the death of the late Charles P. Hughes. It is truly one of the premiere mountain ranches in the region and was a crown jewel in the historic holdings of the Hughes family. Its combination of investment potential, scenic beauty, cattle grazing, big game hunting, accessibility and proximity to a vast array of recreational opportunities, make it the epitome of what owning a Colorado High Country ranch is all about. It is appropriately priced for today’s real estate market.

Location/Access

The ranch abuts a San Miguel County maintained gravel road south of the Town of Norwood which is served by Colorado highway 145. It is approximately a 1 1/2 hour drive from commercial air service at the Telluride Ski area. A municipal airport is located at Norwood.

Vegetation & Terrain

Located at an elevation ranging from 7,880’ to 9,500’, this high country ranch provides a beautiful combination of grass-covered hills and valleys mixed with lush groves of aspen intermixed with occasional Spruce trees, patches of Gamble Oak, Sage, and scattered Piñon pine. 

Water & Water Rights

North Mountain Ranch is High Mountain grazing pasture. Intermittent streams, spring fed ponds and numerous stock ponds are scattered through out the ranch providing an abundant water supply for livestock and wildlife.

 Wildlife, Grazing & Hunting

Located in game management unit 70, this ranch is home to sizable herds of Rocky Mountain Elk and Mule Deer. Black Bear and many other smaller game and non-game animals also make the ranch their home.

North Mountain has a long history of well-managed use for summer cattle grazing. The cool summers and abundant feed and water supplies have provided excellent summer weight gains for the cattle. In the fall, the ranch can boast of some of the very best big game hunting in the area for those who are inclined to hunt. Several trophy quality Rocky Mountain elk and Mule deer are harvested each year. The hunting can provide a substantial amount of income to the operation.

Improvements

A modest, relatively modern cabin is located on the property. It has been utilized as a summer “cow camp” and turns into a great hunting cabin in the fall. The property is well fenced.

Utilities

Electric service is available along the county road and is utilized by the North Mountain cabin. Cellular phone service from some carriers reaches the ranch. Domestic water service would require drilling a well or developing a spring on the property, waste disposal would be by septic system.  

Zoning/Taxation

North Mountain is in the agricultural zone of San Miguel County Colorado. Uses allowed by right include the current uses of Livestock grazing, ranching and hunting. A potential buyer should thoroughly research the county land use regulations and / or seek competent legal advice concerning current uses as well as any other potential uses of the ranch. Property taxes for the year 2010  were $1274.60.

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Disclaimer:  All information provided by Lone Eagle Land Brokerage, Inc. or its Sales Representatives in connection with this property was acquired from sources deemed reliable and is believed to be accurate and reliable.