Ranches

Withers Ranch is located deep in the Davis Mountains in far west Texas. Situated in northern Jeff Davis County and eleven miles from the highway on primitive roads, it is accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. The ranch offers an escape for those interested in swimming, hiking, birding and enjoying beautiful mountain country. The ranch has been in our family since 1972 and is dedicated to the protection and preservation of nature. Through a conservation easement, it is part of a 100,000 acre bioreserve under the stewardship of the Nature Conservancy that stretches from the slopes of Mt. Livermore to the mouth of Madera Canyon, downstream from the ranch. Come enjoy the magic of Madera Canyon, the music of the stream, western sunsets and storms, and create your own memories there.

“The new wild is where people and nature thrive together.” These eloquent words perfectly express the Chandler family’s philosophy of the ranch. The vision of making their home a place for guests to enjoy natural beauty and, at the same time, taking care of that beauty was always behind the creation of the guest ranch business. Independence Creek runs clear and steady through the West Texas desert, directly in front of Chandler Ranch headquarters and into the limestone cliffs that form the Pecos River. Escape to the clear cool waters that converge on Chandler Ranch and enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and exploring.

Nestled under the rimrock just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Middle Creek Ranch invites visitors to an authentic Rocky Mountain experience. A family-owned, working ranch spanning 10,000 acres, Middle Creek beckons you to rest, play, and take in the extraordinary mountain air. Enjoy unbelievable views while horseback riding, fly-fishing or cross-country skiing, or let our expert guides design a custom adventure for you. Guided ATV rides, sporting clays, a shooting and archery range, as well as the kid favorite paintball field are some of the activities you can choose from. When you’re ready to relax, the hot tub on our sun deck is ready. Savor one-of-a-kind meals from a private chef, and say goodnight in cabins that are as rustic as the Colorado countryside.

From trekking through an abandoned mining town to scouting for diverse wildlife, Ladder has an activity for everyone. Create your own journey and discover the depths of Ladder’s natural environment. Wandering creek canyons and endless mountain ranges await or take an unparalleled walk through history. Inhabited by humans dating back to prehistoric times, Ladder features ancient cultural heritage sites. Visit abandoned adobe ruins, pit houses, charcoal kilns and other encampments surrounded by beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. Or if you're an active adventurer, explore the ranch hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, or on a bison roundup.

A secluded 10,000-acre jewel tucked into California’s famed Santa Ynez Valley, Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort melds the spirit of the Old West with the seductive charms of today’s most relaxing resorts. Drive 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara and you’ll find Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort’s 50 miles of riding trails, 100-acre spring-fed lake, two 18-hole championship golf courses, tennis courts, pool, spa, western-themed accommodations, fine dining, and endless ways to unplug and unwind. Just minutes away from the Ranch are more than 75 renowned vineyards and wineries and the charming Danish village of Solvang. Whether it’s a romantic weekend getaway for two, a family reunion, or a corporate retreat, come discover the magic of Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort. This is far more than just a dude ranch. With a temperate climate year-round and ever-changing seasonal activities, any time of year is the perfect time to visit us.

This Costa Rican family-run cattle ranch is located in the mountains between Miravalles Volcano, Tenorio Volcano, and its extensive National Park. Hacienda Montezuma is entirely off-the-grid, and the water is sourced fresh from the mountain springs. The lake provides a tranquil spot for lazy afternoons, picnics and fishing. For those feeling more active, they can arrange fly fishing in the volcanic rivers, bird watching, trekking, rafting, a visit to the local town, and riding expeditions through pastures & the jungle. The 3700 acre Hacienda is dedicated to raising and breeding Brangus and Brahman cattle, with more than 1300 head. Visitors can join the “sabaneros”, or cowboys, while they herd and work the cattle.

Elephant Mountain Ranch is part of the Texas Hill Country River Region. With crystal clear rock bottom river beds like the Frio River in Concan and Leakey, TX this Nueces River ranch offers a secluded, private experience. The ranch is named for a baby elephant that escaped from and was returned to a circus traveling through nearby Montell in the early 20th century. Lipan Apache once roamed the Nueces Canyon, Franciscan monks and the U.S. military set up outposts and Charles Lindbergh made an unplanned stop nearby at the turn of the 20th century.

With snowcapped alpine tundra, 19 fishable lakes and over 550,000 stunning acres of picturesque lands, Vermejo is the jewel of northern New Mexico. Its diverse landscape is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elk, bison, black bears and mountain lions. Whether riding horseback through open fields, exploring turn-of-the-century charcoal kilns, or fly fishing for Rio Grande cutthroat trout, Vermejo has something for everyone.

The historic Yturria Ranch is located on approximately 14,000 acres of pristine South Texas ranch country in Willacy County and Kenedy County, approximately 29 miles north of the Valley International Airport in Harlingen and 6 miles north of Raymondville. The Yturria Ranch was founded in 1858 by Francisco Yturria, a South Texas pioneer, merchant, banker, railroad developer, and rancher. The Yturria Ranch has been under continuous family management for more than 160 years.

The Costilla Lodge is Vermejo’s hidden gem, located 45 minutes from the main lodge at 10,000 feet of elevation. While guests staying at Costilla Lodge have access to all of the fabulous inclusions and activities as those staying at the Main Lodge, the most sought after summer and winter adventures begin just outside the Costilla doorstep… With snowcapped alpine tundra, 19 fishable lakes and over 550,000 stunning acres of picturesque lands, Vermejo is the jewel of northern New Mexico. Its diverse landscape is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elk, bison, black bears and mountain lions. Whether riding horseback through open fields, exploring turn-of-the-century charcoal kilns, or fly fishing for Rio Grande cutthroat trout, Vermejo has something for everyone.

Located in the picturesque Cienega Mountains with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet, Cibolo Creek Ranch, named for the buffalo that once roamed the region, is one of the oldest ranches in Texas. Cienega Fort was constructed between 1855 and 1857 by the ranch's founder, Milton Faver, at the spring-fed source of Cienega Creek. The Cienega forts were the original headquarters to Faver's growing cattle enterprise., chosen for their location at the spring-fed source of Cibolo Creek. Efforts to restore the ranch's historic structures and native habitat began in the late 1980s. Under the auspices of the Texas Historical Commission, everything from the fort structures, landscaping to interior decor were renovated. Every aspect of the environment reflects features of Spanish and Mexican culture. Most of the modern conveniences are tastefully hidden from view so guests can truly feel that they’ve slipped back in time, but without forfeiting modern comforts. Through ongoing habitat restoration efforts, much of the 30,000 acre landscape has been returned to its pre-pioneer condition.

In a 2005 Big Sky Journal article, the author describes the setting of Green Valley Ranch best: “After a short drive off Montana Highway 2, the winding access road opens onto the homestead, where a caretaker’s cabin, guesthouse and main lodge encircle a small pond. In this sheltered meadow, it’s easy to see why the Green family settled here in the early 1900’s. The valley lies in the curve of the Flathead Range with Desert Mountain standing sentinel at 6,000 feet, cradling the collection of buildings protectively. From the hilltop above the lodge a person could look southwest and see right into Glacier National Park.” Green Valley Ranch was originally homesteaded by the George Green family when Glacier Park was newly created. The land was sold in 1947 and operated for fifty years as a dude ranch known as Desert Mountain Lodge. In 1999, the ranch was purchased and restored by the current owners – grandchildren of the original homesteading family. Today, five generations of the Green family ride and ski the logging trails, thin and replant the forest, and are securing the abundance and beauty of the area for future generations. Green Valley Ranch is their family’s treasure and legacy they now share with a select few.

Located in the picturesque Cienega Mountains with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet, Cibolo Creek Ranch, named for the buffalo that once roamed the region, is one of the oldest ranches in Texas. The ranch is composed of rolling hills and rugged mountain peaks, with roads and trails throughout. Through ongoing habitat restoration efforts, much of the 30,000 acre landscape has been returned to its pre-pioneer condition.

It all began with a move from LA to Austin. Bobby and Gail went from the fast-paced high traffic, “cement” jungle life to a calming, serene, and nature-filled life. They had the extraordinary opportunity to buy 178 acres of raw land. Paired with a dream to create a wonderful place that provides a unique opportunity to nurture in nature, they began to build what you see today. They had the idea that more folks like them wanted to "nurture in nature", to recharge their physical and emotional batteries in a relaxed, beautiful, and caring environment. The Dubois are passionate about the land and the animals, being active, preparing and enjoying good food, and deeply wish to share that experience with others.

Dead Cat Ranch has been a family owned and operated ranch for over 35 years. Like so many landowners, the Spencer/Betts family has recently opened their ranch to guest stays and are excited to share the history of such a special place. Josh and Stacy have created a fun and relaxed environment with plenty of adventure for both families and large groups. Between the miles of ATV trails, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, shooting sports, and sitting around the campfire under the stars, this is an experience that will have you booking your next stay before you leave.

Cumberland has been a significant fixture of Virginia’s history since the 17th century. In recent years, this landmark site has had new life breathed into it as a result of its acquisition by Criss Cross Properties, LLC. Criss Cross Properties was founded by John B. Poindexter, an entrepreneur and restorationist whose ancestry is deep-rooted in the New Kent area. “Criss Cross,” which signified Christ’s cross in that era, was the name of his family’s first home in Colonial Virginia in the late 1600s. Although Mr. Poindexter resides in Texas, he considers New Kent his second home because of his rich family heritage in the area. Inspired by his love for history and a strong desire to preserve it, he began a property acquisition and restoration program in 2013. As part of the program, Mr. Poindexter acquired 3,423 acres of rural property clustered around the authentic Criss Cross home. That acreage encompassed part of the original family settlement, including the grounds of Cumberland. Disrepair and land degradation plagued most of the individual properties when they were purchased. Today, thanks to the guidance of local craftsmen and talented advisors, the estate has been revitalized to an impressive semblance of its original condition — with modern conveniences. Likewise, the surrounding lands are once again thriving as farms and managed forests that maintain the character of the colonial era.

As one of the most remote locations in Scotland, the journey to Alladale is an experience in itself. Driving from Edinburgh, you have the opportunity to see much of Scotland's beauty - rolling hills, pristine rivers, centuries old castles, and if you're lucky, weather that changes by the hour and only enhances the majestic landscape. Once you arrive, you are greeted by an enthusiastic team, led by Stuart and Mandy, eager to ensure your time on the Reserve doesn't disappoint. Alladale’s chef Natasha Buttigieg produces consciously prepared local and organic fare. Their state of the art aquaponic gardens and exterior raised beds produce the vegetables, salads, herbs, and berries. Alladale's ethically culled wild venison is available together with local game if so desired. Regional suppliers offer fresh & wild caught seafood and local trout. Bespoke menus are available upon request. The rugged beauty of Alladale Wilderness Reserve allows for guests to experience the Highlands in its wildest form. Being out there sometimes feels like staying at the edge of the world. This makes spending a few days exploring the Reserve an unforgettable experience. Alladale offers a great range of indoor and outdoor activities for you to enjoy onsite. Ryan is your local guide and expertly navigates his way around the terrain, through the rivers and restored peat bogs, to take you hiking to an ancient forest. Along the way, visit and feed the Highland cows, learn about how they are helping conservation efforts, and stop to visit the Scottish wildcat rewilding program. A trip to the Cairn River is a class in Atlantic Salmon spawning, and its importance to the overall ecosystem. They also offer a variety of interesting day trips to local historic gems. Or go dolphin watching before having a nice local lunch. And what about a visit to a lovely whisky distillery? Alladale is a fantastic base from where to explore a unique part of the Highlands and northern Scotland. You might have been drawn to the lore of the Highlands, but Alladale will capture your heart with its passion, and you'll leave planning your return.

First human use of the Tom Miner Basin was by local Native American tribes as summer hunting grounds. The Absaroka (Crow) lived in a large territory bordered by the Beartooth Plateau on the south, the Yellowstone Plateau on the southwest and the Gallatin Mountain Range and Yellowstone River on the west and north. Tom Miner Basin is located on the western edge of that region, in the Gallatin Range. In addition to the Crow, the Sheepeater Indians most likely hunted in the Basin as well. Two hiking trails still used at B Bar– one traveling into Yellowstone and the other over Buffalo Horn Pass into the Gallatin River drainage – were likely used by Native Americans as they traversed the area. Tipi rings are still visible on the land, and some arrowheads and chips have been found in various ranch locales. Although not known with certainty, a member of the Lewis & Clark Expedition named John Colter may have been the first person of European descent to visit Tom Miner Basin in the early 1800s. Colter’s stories include trapping in a location that could well have been this Basin. He spent months alone in the wilderness, and is widely considered to be the first “mountain man." In the mid-1860s when Emigrant Gulch was settled as a lively gold mining camp, hunters frequented the Basin as well. It was around this time that Thomas J. Miner began trapping here, and it is for him that the area was named. The first homesteaders arrived in the Basin in the 1890s, following the settlement of Paradise Valley immediately after the Civil War and upon completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad a decade earlier. The first documented resident in the Basin was a man named Burkins, who homesteaded around 1900 where the main B Bar Ranch buildings are now located. In 1906 he sold his holdings to Charlie and Adelaide Scott, who owned the B Bar brand. There were at least six other homesteads settled about this time, as the Northern Pacific sold land in the Basin to ranchers for grazing. Names given to areas of the ranch – the Reed Place, Styers Pasture, Davis Cabin, and Anderson Place – remind us of the families who struggled to make a living in the upper reaches of the Basin. In the late 1930s, Bill Ward (a businessman from New York) came to Montana and consolidated various homesteads into a larger B Bar. During Ward’s tenure, the ranch was managed and operated by Don Hindman, a rancher and furniture maker from Cody, Wyoming. Hindman built our shop, Skully Barn, and much of the Molesworth-style furniture in the lodge. By the mid-1960s the Wards were forced to sell the ranch with the passing of Bill Ward. They sold to the Dunevant Corporation, an agricultural commodities brokerage firm in Tennessee. Very quickly they found that conditions here for raising cattle were very different than what they were accustomed to. When the ranch was again put on the market three long-time ranching families in the Basin purchased it to protect the property from subdivision or other development. Two of the ranchers took acreage for their share, leaving the third as sole owners of the reduced-size B Bar. It was from these owners that the B Bar, as it is today, was purchased by the current owners in May of 1978. With the purchase of eight cows and one bull in 1989, the ranch began its endeavor to operate organically. Today, the ranch honors the historical significance of the area through ecological preservation and stewardship of the land.