14,160 Acres in Custer, MT - $28,330,000

The Windancer

The Windancer is located in one of the most sought-after regions of Montana, the Bull Mountains. A beautiful 2,288-square-foot log home overlooks Buffalo Creek, providing unmatched early morning views of resident elk, mule deer, and antelope herds that call this property home. Productive hay fields are strategically managed for wildlife, surrounding a 10-acre spring-fed reservoir stocked annually with Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Elk populations exceeding 300 head are common on the ranch, and unlike other areas of the Bulls, the elk remain year-round. Numerous elk scoring over 360 have been harvested here, and a set of 410-inch sheds was recently found within the ranch boundaries.

The Windancer Ranch lies in the 590 special permit area. With Landowner Preference, this permit has very high drawing odds year after year. Last year, draw odds were 100% for both resident and non-resident archery applicants. Rifle permit odds were 70% for residents and 100% for non-residents.

Revised Listing: 707± deeded acres have been added to the listing. The additional acreage provides secluded access into the adjacent BLM section, increasing privacy and enhancing long-term value.

Acreage Breakdown

• 10,960 Deeded Acres

• 2,560 BLM Lease Acres

• 640 State Lease Acres

Improvements

The Windancer is well equipped with three housing options. The primary residence is a beautiful log home built in 1977 and remodeled in 1998. A lightly timbered driveway leads to the 2,288-square-foot home, where exceptional craftsmanship is immediately evident. The wraparound deck welcomes you into a main living area with vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen features tile flooring, granite countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. An oversized two-car garage connects through a spacious mudroom with a half bath. A nearby pole barn provides additional dry storage for equipment, vehicles, and ATVs.

The manager’s house sits on the north side of the property overlooking Buffalo Creek. From this vantage point, one can watch calves being born, observe mature bulls entering bedding grounds, or take in Montana sunsets. An elaborate pipe corral system supports branding, preconditioning, and shipping operations. Several outbuildings surround the home, including a barn, shop, and three-sided sheds.

Elk Camp, located in Section 10 on the south side of Buffalo Creek, is a 1,252-square-foot hunting cabin with three bedrooms and two baths. Fully equipped for successful hunts, it serves as the starting point for many outings. Hunters can walk to nearby stands, set up over water holes, or pursue bugling bulls emerging from barley fields. Evenings are spent around the fire pit, grilling on the deck, and listening to elk rut in the hay fields.

General Operation

The current owner has run up to 500 mother cows and believes the ranch could support more in wetter years. Income potential is strong, particularly with current cattle prices at historic highs. Calving traditionally occurs along Buffalo Creek before summer grazing on Antelope Creek, with cattle returning in late October or early November for weaning and sale.

Hay fields and tilled acres planted in barley and oats can produce up to 800 tons of hay in productive years. With proper fertilization and management, the ranch operates as a largely self-sustaining and profitable enterprise.

Water Resources

The Windancer is one of the best-watered ranches in the Bull Mountains. A spring-fed reservoir rarely runs dry, even during drought conditions. Multiple wells and water lines ensure dependable water distribution throughout the ranch, particularly during late summer when demand peaks. Water rights will transfer upon request.

Climate

Montana offers four distinct seasons, with average summer temperatures in the mid-80s and approximately 40 inches of winter snowfall. Annual precipitation averages around 13 inches, supporting both ranching and recreational opportunities.

Mineral Rights

All minerals currently owned by the seller will transfer.