Where the skies are blue, the grass is green and the river carries its timeless rhythm through the valley, Diamond K Bar Farm & Ranch stands as a legacy holding unlike any other. Encompassing approximately 587± contiguous deeded acres with over 2.25 miles of private Animas River frontage, this remarkable ranch combines premier water rights, exceptional beauty, and first-class infrastructure—offering rare versatility for agriculture, recreation, and future vision.
At the heart of the property lies one of its most valuable assets: 818.8 acre-feet of adjudicated Animas River water rights, among the largest single ownerships in the surrounding area. Dating to the 1890s and fully adjudicated in 1943, these rights have been in continuous beneficial use for generations and support approximately 300± irrigated acres of highly productive farmland. Four center pivots—three 80-acre pivots and one 40...
At the heart of the property lies one of its most valuable assets: 818.8 acre-feet of adjudicated Animas River water rights, among the largest single ownerships in the surrounding area. Dating to the 1890s and fully adjudicated in 1943, these rights have been in continuous beneficial use for generations and support approximately 300± irrigated acres of highly productive farmland. Four center pivots—three 80-acre pivots and one 40-acre pivot—along with additional flood-irrigated pastures, sustain outstanding alfalfa production and long-standing agricultural success.
Land, Water & Setting:
The ranch is set within a private valley, bordered on three sides by the winding Animas River and on the fourth by towering, sheer bluffs that rise dramatically from the valley floor. These bluffs create natural privacy and an extraordinary visual backdrop, while effectively eliminating public access. Mature cottonwoods, riparian corridors, and open skies define the landscape, supporting abundant wildlife including elk, mule deer, and turkey. Private land hunting opportunities and proximity to extensive public lands further enhance the recreational appeal.
The Animas River itself is a crown jewel—deep, clear, and productive. Rainbow and brown trout thrive along this stretch, with no public access on either bank throughout the entire river frontage, ensuring truly private fishing and enjoyment.
Agricultural & Ranch Improvements:
Diamond K Bar is fully equipped as a high-functioning working ranch with infrastructure to match its scale:
* 40’ x 100’ trophy barn, currently housing large equipment and easily adaptable for horses or livestock
* Two 32’ x 96’ x 24’ hay storage buildings designed for large square bales
* First-class pipe pens, corrals, and feeding lot capable of handling and shipping up to 300 head of cattle
* Arena and excellent livestock handling facilities
* Well-equipped mechanical workshop for on-ranch maintenance and operations
In addition, 20,000± square feet of state-of-the-art greenhouses were installed in 2022 at a cost exceeding $1.3 million. These facilities feature digitally automated climate, lighting, and irrigation systems, offering tremendous upside for expanded farming, horticulture, or specialty crop ventures.
Residential Improvements:
Multiple residences provide flexibility for ownership, guests, or ranch staff:
* A 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch manager’s home (approximately 1,900 sq. ft.)
* A comfortable river-front owner’s residence with upgraded interiors and expansive redwood decks
* A third well-maintained residence for additional staff or extended family
Location & Accessibility:
Despite its privacy, the ranch enjoys exceptional access and convenience. A charming private bridge serves as the sole point of ingress, creating a dramatic and memorable arrival. The property is ideally situated along Highway 550, placing shopping, dining, medical facilities, regional air service, and world-class skiing all within easy reach.
Development & Legacy Potential:
Importantly, the ranch is unencumbered by conservation easements, offering rare flexibility for the future. Whether envisioned as:
* A single-family luxury legacy estate
* A world-class resort or retreat
* A private, exclusive riverfront community
* Or continued operation as an elite agricultural and cattle ranch
Diamond K Bar Farm & Ranch offers the water, land, infrastructure, privacy, and proximity required to support any of these paths.
This is not simply a ranch - It is a generational asset—where water rights, river frontage, productivity, and beauty converge.?Diamond K Bar Farm & Ranch. Your legacy begins here.
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