Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch | Fay Ranches

YONDEROSA WILDERNESS RANCH

Tres Piedras, New Mexico

$7,300,000 2,296± Acres

INTRODUCTION

Are you looking for a remote hunting property with a large, comfortable cabin, abundant game, and plenty of hunting vouchers? The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch offers a rare opportunity to own a very special ranch in northern New Mexico in a National Park-like setting.

Spanning 2,296± acres, this expansive property, bordering United States Forest Service (USFS) land, provides a private wilderness experience, accessible via 24± miles of USFS roads from paved US Highway 285. The ranch’s elevation ranges from 9,800 to 10,000 feet, contributing to a diverse landscape of aspens, ponderosa pines, spruce, and fir trees, interspersed with approximately 50% open meadows and 50% forested areas. The undulating topography creates varied terrain, supporting a rich environment for wildlife.

This property is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering significant hunting opportunities. In 2026, the ranch received 17 elk vouchers. In the past, the ranch has applied for and received additional vouchers for pronghorn antelope. Mule deer tags in this area have traditionally been available over-the-counter. Needless to say, the ranch is a prime hunting destination. There is fishing for all to enjoy. Multiple springfed ponds and two creeks hold an abundant population of Brook trout that respond aggressively to a well-placed grasshopper fly.

Central to Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is a large, 3,300± square foot log-style cabin. The cabin operates entirely off-grid, powered by a new solar energy system, ensuring self-sufficiency and minimal environmental impact. This residence includes five bedrooms and four bathrooms in total, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious great room, and a kitchen currently finished. A wraparound deck provides extensive views of the surrounding landscape. Heating is provided by both wood and propane. Additionally, a small historic cabin stands on the property, presenting an opportunity for refurbishment.

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch represents a blend of remote tranquility and significant recreational appeal, ideal for those seeking a private retreat or a premier hunting property.

1 Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch | Tres Piedras, New Mexico

QUICK FACTS

• 2,296± acres of deeded land in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico

• Pronghorn and mule deer vouchers available

• Approximately 50% meadows and 50% aspen, ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir forests

• Private well water and permitted septic system

• Multiple spring-fed ponds and streams with a large brook trout population

• The historic cowboy cabin on the property offers potential for refurbishment

• The Continental Divide Trail passes nearby

• Exceptional elk hunting; received 17 elk vouchers - 2026

• 3,300± partially finished log-sided cabin: 3-bed/2-bath, finished

• Remote: 24± miles from pavement via USFS roads

• Unencumbered by covenants or conservation easement

ACREAGE

• 2,296± Acres

• Yonderosa borders thousands of acres of USFS land

The ranch encompasses 2,296± deeded acres of varied terrain, with approximately half consisting of open meadows and the other half covered by forests. Elevations across the property range from 9,800 to 10,000+ feet, supporting a diverse mix of aspen, ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir trees. The undulating topography creates a dynamic landscape, offering both open grazing areas and secluded timbered sections that enhance its recreational and ecological value. Live water, springfed streams, and ponds attract a large variety of wildlife. This balanced composition provides prime habitat and supports a range of land uses.

DISTINCTIVE FEATURES

The ranch's diverse forest, featuring stands of aspen, ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir, as well as live water streams and ponds, provides a home to a variety of wildlife species. A trip around the ranch in the early morning or late afternoon often offers views of elk, mule deer, black bears, and pronghorn antelope.

SCENIC VISTAS

From its elevated position at 9,800 to 10,000 feet, Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch offers expansive views across a rolling landscape. The property’s blend of open meadows and forests provides a dynamic visual experience, with distant mountain profiles visible through the clear New Mexico air. The changing seasons bring varied colors to the aspens and conifers, enhancing the panoramic outlooks.

IMPROVEMENTS

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch features a substantial log-style cabin, designed with five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The finished sections of this residence include three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious great room, and a kitchen. The upstairs portion of the cabin is partially complete and offers a large sleeping loft and two ensuite bedrooms. The wraparound deck provides outdoor living space. The cabin operates entirely off-grid, powered by a recently installed solar system, and utilizes both wood and propane for heating. Additionally, a smaller, historic cowboy cabin is present on the property, offering an opportunity for restoration. A private well supplies water, and a permitted septic system supports the main cabin. Access to the ranch is by 24± miles of USFS roads, connecting to US Highway 285.

RECREATION

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch offers extensive recreational opportunities, primarily focused on biggame hunting. The varied terrain, comprising open meadows and dense forests, supports robust wildlife populations. Beyond hunting, the ranch’s remote setting and high elevation offer an ideal environment for hiking, mountain biking, ATVs, equestrian activities, and photography. The Continental Divide Trail passes the ranch on the USFS side.

FISHING

The ponds and streams on Yonderosa provide habitat for a large population of brook trout, and it is a fun fishery. Inscriptions from the last century on the ranch’s historic cabin walls brag about catching 30 fish in a day. While the Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch does not feature major rivers or lakes on site, the broader Rio Arriba County region offers other fishing opportunities for serious anglers seeking larger trophy fish.

HUNTING | WILDLIFE

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is situated in a region known for its big game populations. The property’s varied habitat of open meadows and dense forests supports healthy numbers of elk, mule deer, and pronghorn. Located in New Mexico Game Management Unit 4, the property consistently receives elk vouchers, with 17 allocated in 2026, providing opportunities for many successful hunts. A variety of hunting styles can be utilized on the ranch due to the varied terrain. There are excellent archery ground blind areas, longrange scoping spots, and traditional walkand-stalk hunting. The addition of fixed, elevated blinds would further enhance the variety of hunting methods. Additionally, vouchers for pronghorn have been available. Mule deer tags have traditionally been available over-the-counter in this GMU. Its varied topography and vegetation provide both forage and cover, contributing to robust wildlife activity within the property boundaries and the adjacent USFS land.

NOTE:

The ranch’s remote location, accessed via 24± miles of USFS roads, contributes to its secluded recreational appeal, ensuring a private outdoor experience. This limited access helps maintain the quality of the wildlife habitat and preserves the tranquil atmosphere for hunting and other activities.

INCOME OPPORTUNITY

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch offers several avenues for generating income. Its consistent allocation of elk, pronghorn, and mule deer vouchers creates a strong basis for leasing hunting access. The ranch currently leases grazing rights to a local rancher. Refurbishing and renting the cowboy cabin through Airbnb or VRBO is another opportunity.

AREA HISTORY

Rio Arriba County, where Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is located, holds a deep historical narrative shaped by indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and American expansion. The area was historically inhabited by various Pueblo peoples, whose ancestral lands and trade routes crisscrossed the region. Spanish explorers and settlers arrived in the 17th century, establishing land grants and a distinct cultural heritage that persists today. By the 19th century, the region had become part of the United States, bringing new waves of settlement, ranching, and resource extraction, particularly of timber. The remote, rugged terrain of northern New Mexico has historically fostered a resilient, self-sufficient lifestyle, with communities maintaining strong ties to the land and its resources. This legacy of independence and resourcefulness defines the character of Tres Piedras and the surrounding high-mountain country.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

The Carson National Forest, encompassing vast tracts of the surrounding landscape, offers extensive trails for hiking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling. Taos, a historic art colony and ski destination, is approximately 2.5 hours east, offering dining, galleries, and Taos Ski Valley. To the south, Española and Santa Fe provide further cultural attractions, including museums, historic architecture, and diverse culinary experiences. The region is also known for its hot springs and opportunities for river rafting on the Rio Grande.

LOCATION

Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is positioned in the high country of Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. Interestingly, the Continental Trail passes by the east side of the ranch on USFS land. This northern New Mexico region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, extensive national forests, and a blend of Hispanic and Native American cultural influences. The property is situated within the Carson National Forest, providing a remote setting while remaining accessible to US Highway 285. Larger towns such as Española and Taos, known for their arts, culture, and services, are within a reasonable drive, offering additional amenities and resources.

GETTING THERE

From US Highway 285, proceed west on USFS Roads 87 & 93. Access to Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is via 24± miles of U.S. Forest Service roads, providing a very secluded approach to the ranch. The last section of the road is very rough, whereas the first half is in very good condition. The buyer of this ranch will be looking for a remote property that isn’t easily accessible to the general public.

AIRPORT SERVICES

Access to Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is facilitated by several airports within reasonable proximity. The Taos Regional Airport (SKX), approximately 65 miles southeast, offers general aviation services and limited commercial flights, with a drive time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes. For broader regional commercial service, the Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) is located approximately 120 miles south, providing connections to major hubs. The closest major international airport is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), situated about 180 miles south.

WATER SOURCES

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch uses a private well as its primary water source to meet the property’s domestic needs.

MINERAL RIGHTS

All mineral rights appurtenant to the property and owned by the seller will convey to the buyer at closing. Mineral rights are not guaranteed. It is suggested that the buyer conduct a mineral search with a title company.

CONSERVATION | STEWARDSHIP

Through thoughtful land stewardship, owners can conserve open space, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and support sustainable agricultural operations. Conservation easements and long-term stewardship help preserve the character and productivity of working lands for future generations.

Each of us at Fay Ranches loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay Ranches has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay Ranches is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape.

SUMMARY

The Yonderosa Wilderness Ranch is an exceptional 2,296± acre hunting and recreational ranch in the high country of Northern New Mexico. Located on the Continental Divide, the ranch has a large off-grid hunting cabin with three bedrooms, two baths, a kitchen, dining, and great room, finished, with two additional bed/bath suites ready to be finished for additional accommodations. For 2026, the ranch received 17 elk tags. Multiple spring-fed ponds and streams hold good numbers of brook trout. In the past, the owners have applied for and received pronghorn antelope tags. Mule deer tags are generally sold over-thecounter in this area. The ranch is very remote and is accessed via a 24±-mile stretch of USFS road off US Highway 285.

$7,300,000 Cash

Conventional Financing 1031 Exchange Land Loans

Please contact Jim Vidamour, ALC, at (719) 890-4590 | jvidamour@ fayranches.com to schedule a showing. This is an exclusive listing. An agent from Fay Ranches, Inc. must be present at all showings, unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties we have listed, please visit our web page at www. fayranches.com.

Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.

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