Nestled in the Piedra River valley surrounded by San Juan National Forest land, Rafter T Ranch is a place of stunning natural beauty and exceptional privacy. Occupying 887± acres in southwest Colorado, Rafter T is 17 miles west of picturesque Pagosa Springs and 35 miles east of Durango. Unmatched surface water rights manifest in two lakes, three ponds, irrigation channels as well as portions of Devil Creek and the Piedra River. Views of the stunning Chimney Rock National Monument lie to the southeast, where echoes of bygone civilizations still reverberate over the land.
Exceptionally private, Rafter T Ranch includes frontage on both banks of the Piedra River, which flows unimpeded from its headwaters, through the ranch, and south into New Mexico’s Navajo Reservoir. Native grasses line the rocky riverbanks, hayfields ripple in the breeze, and stands of ponderosa pine, cedar, and willow create shady habitats for a variety of wildlife, including golden and bald eagles, black bears, mountain lions, red foxes, beavers, and river otters. Resident herds of mule deer and elk roam the valley, and herds reach 100 to 200 strong during fall migration. The ranch also supports 20 head of cattle and self-sustaining brome, orchard grass, alfalfa, and clover hay production. There are five barns, three residences, and a fishing cabin for owners, guests, and ranch hands.
In addition to its stunning and secluded setting, purchasing Rafter T Ranch represents a rare opportunity to finalize the vision of enhancing and rehabilitating the Piedra River and its adjoining riparian habitats. Current ownership has completed 80 percent of the river enhancement master plan by virtue of an ongoing partnership with a local river habitat improvement company. As a result of these enhancements, the fishing here is excellent, with brown and rainbow trout actively spawning in Devil Creek and maturing in the connected brood ponds.
Rafter T Ranch will cater to a conservation-minded buyer aligned with the goal of completing the planned enhancements on the ranch’s water features while soaking in the outstanding fishing, boating, hiking, and sunset-viewing possibilities this property has to offer.
