Elk Mountain Ranch - SOLD

At the southern end of Park County, Colorado lies the Thirtynine Mile Volcanic Field surrounding the town of Guffey. The South Platte River and its tributaries have etched this area of remnant volcanoes. As a result, dramatic landforms such as the Eleven-Mile River Canyon have been created. Driving into Guffey from any direction is like stepping back 90 years in time. Several 19th-century structures are still occupied while others, though vacant, appear as if they are occupied. If a place exists that may be considered "Genuine Colorado," Guffey reflects both the spirit and appearance. Elk Mountain Ranch depicts the history and traditions of this country.

Location
Located 30 minutes northwest of Canon City, Colorado and 5 miles North of Guffey off State Highway 9 in Park County. The property is 120 miles to Denver, 70 miles to Colorado Springs, 34 miles to Cripple Creek, and 64 miles to Pueblo. Specific directions are available from listing Broker.

Terrain & Surrounding National Forest
Elk Mountain Ranch features a southern exposure with approximately 276 acres on three parcels of the old Many Hills Ranch. Approximately 75% of the land lies in meadow irrigated from the artesian wells with the remainder interspersed with Aspen, Ponderosa Pine, and Bristle Cone Pine Trees. Elevation changes from 9,400-10,000 feet. The property lies at the old, historic town of El Hombre with two homestead cabins and an old underground house with sod roof as a reminder of the past. This area is known for its mild climate, with summer temperatures averaging 76 degrees, winter 37 degrees, and snowfall of 59 inches. The ranch is located near the base of the 39 Mile Mountain Range and within one mile of the Pike National Forest, which provide spectacular views in all directions on the property. The look and feel of the area sets you back in time to the days of the old west.

Improvements
For privacy, a solar electric gate is situated at the entrance of the property, as well as between this and neighboring parcels. Improvements on the property include a Barn Master Barn built in July 2000, which is currently setup for equestrian use. The building is 36x60 feet with a complete solar electric system for lighting and power. Presently, the barn is setup with six 12x12 stalls, a double foaling stall, tack room, and wash rack room, both equipped with wastewater drains. Stalls are dirt floored with extra-heavy duty mats and most have indoor/outdoor access. There is also a workshop, 12x24 concrete patio with windscreen, 48x6 foot roof overhang-porch attached to the barn, and graveled paddock area.

There are several prime residential building sites on the property. The land has undergone a county approved loco eradication program the past two years to increase grazable pasture, and the property is perimeter fenced with cross fencing for grazing pasture. Power and telephone are located along Hwy 9 and approximately 3 miles by roadway to the property. This area, with its rural heritage, is largely supplied by solar powered systems and cell phone service.

Water & Water Rights
Adjudicated water rights on Berthrong Spring No. 12 and storage water rights on Berthrong Reservoir B-7 and B-8. There are two small year around streams, 2 artesian wells, and six small ponds on the ranch. Two of the ponds on the property have been stocked with trout for a peaceful fishing experience. The water features could be increased or improved adding to the scenic beauty of the property.

Recreation, Hunting, Fishing, and Wildlife
Park County is graced with dozens of headwater lakes and streams and literally hundreds of historic structures built by miners and settlers. Within its borders are two national wilderness areas, two state parks, nine state wildlife areas and more territory above 9,000 feet altitude than any other county in the state of Colorado. In recent years the area has gained notoriety as a high-altitude proving ground for mountaineers and fly-fishing. Eleven-mile and Spinney Mountain State Parks near Lake George provide facilities (seasonal) for fly fishing and lure fishing, boating, sailing, camping, and hunting. The area is home to Elk, Deer, Antelope, and Bear. It is not uncommon to see elk herds migrate through the property accessing the water while seeking the shelter of the property's terrain.

Also, near Lake George, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument contains petrified trees that world's largest repository of fossil insects. Other recreational opportunities include hiking and backpacking, mountain biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, snow and cross-country skiing. The renowned Breckenridge Ski Area is approximately an hour from the property offering exceptional world class skiing and resort amenities as well as Ski the Summit resorts of Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain.

Conservation Easement Potential
The ranch has excellent potential for a Conservation Easement with its critical wintering and calving grounds for the 39 Mile Mt. Elk herd. A buyer could offset some of the investment price through the tax benefits of placing a conservation easement on all or a portion of the ranch. A thorough review of the buyer's short and long term goals and financial position would determine if this method of land preservation would be a benefit to the buyer.

Price Information
$595,000 for the real estate, water rights and mineral rights owned by Seller. Some personal property may be available to purchase separately. Cash or terms acceptable to Seller. Sellers reserve right to complete a qualified IRS code 1031 exchange.