EL BARRANCO RANCH ON THE CHAMA RIVER
Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
$5,900,000
440± Acres
INTRODUCTION
El Barranco ranch on the Chama River consists of 440± gorgeous acres, blessed with 1.5± miles of both sides of the Chama River in Northern New Mexico. The El Barranco trio of fly fishing, agriculture, and big game hunting is difficult to match on one property.
The ranch offers excellent fly fishing on the trout-rich Chama River, which winds through a beautiful setting of cottonwoods. Fly fishing is a prominent feature, but the opportunity to hunt elk or mule deer cannot be overlooked. The ranch borders the vast, undeveloped acreage of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, as well as the renowned elk and mule deer habitat that exists on those lands. Elk and mule deer routinely visit El Barranco’s hayfields and river bottom to feed and water. The ranch is eligible for and has received multiple hunting vouchers. It is not unusual at El Barranco in the early fall to hunt elk or mule deer in the morning, fish for large brown and rainbow trout in the middle of the day, and then enjoy another evening hunt.
There is more value than just the first-class recreational aspects of the ranch. Substantial senior water rights lead to great hay production and cattle grazing, which has been the primary focus of the current owners. Farm work can be done hands-on or by retaining existing hay and grazing leases. At a time when live water fishing properties and senior water rights are hard to find, a rare recreational and agricultural opportunity awaits the buyer of this gold medal property. Buyers seeking additional acreage should consider the 270± acre El Barranco East property, located across the highway.
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El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
QUICK FACTS
• 440± acres
• 1.5± miles of both sides of the Chama River
• Senior water rights
• Superior fly fishing
• Exceptional elk and mule deer hunting
• Hay production and cattle grazing
• 1.5± hour drive to Santa Fe, New Mexico
• 1± hour drive to Pagosa Springs, Colorado
• Several possible income opportunities: fishing, hunting, grazing leases, and hay sales
• Agriculture tax rate
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
ACREAGE
El Barranco Ranch consists of approximately 440± versatile acres, whether for irrigated hay production, hunting, or fly fishing on the Chama River. As undeveloped acreage, the new owner has the opportunity to choose a home site that suits his or her tastes to perfection. Because private properties surround the farm, there is no public access to the river for miles, significantly reducing the likelihood of ever encountering a trespasser.
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
SCENIC VISTAS
The entire Chama area, and the ranch itself, enjoy picturesque views of the San Juan Mountains, known for their dramatic profiles and the well-recognized Brazos Cliffs, a stunning geological formation characterized by dramatic, towering stone walls, located just minutes from the ranch. The cottonwood trees along the river turn vibrant oranges and yellows each fall.
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
RECREATION
This 440± acre property affords multiple recreational opportunities. Fourwheeling, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, sporting clays, target shooting, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing are a few of the activities that can be enjoyed on the ranch, other than the main attractions of fishing and hunting.
HUNTING | WILDLIFE
The combination of healthy hayfields, an abundant river, and stands of cottonwood trees for cover makes the ranch irresistible to elk and mule deer. Routinely, groups of elk and mule deer leave the drier terrain of the bordering Jicarilla Apache Nation lands to visit El Barranco for food and water. The immediate area is well-known for the “Mundy Mule Deer Buck” and other trophy animals harvested.
FISHING
El Barranco Farm is renowned for its exceptional fly fishing and accessible elk hunting. Wild populations of brown and rainbow trout will stretch your line and test your skill. For those interested in fishing by boat, the nearby Heron Lake State Park and El Vado Lake State Park offer excellent opportunities.
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
INCOME OPPORTUNITY
Due to the excellent water rights, the ranch produces a bumper crop of hay. After the hay is cut, cattle are turned out, and the ranch earns income from a grazing lease. Income can also be earned through fishing and hunting leases with local fly fishing guides and outfitters. Because of low taxes, lack of residential improvements, senior water rights, extensive two-sided river frontage, and exceptional hunting and fishing, El Barranco Ranch is a superb land-banking candidate.
A wise investor can purchase the property, cover carrying costs with several income sources, and watch it appreciate over time. El Barranco offers enduring investment stability, complemented by the satisfaction that comes from utilizing the property year-round.
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
AREA HISTORY
Chama and Tierra Amarilla, located in northern New Mexico, have rich histories shaped by Native American cultures, Spanish colonization, and later settlement by Anglo-Americans. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Jicarilla Apache and the Ute, who relied on the region’s natural resources for sustenance. In the late 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived, leading to the establishment of missions and settlements. The area became part of Spanish land grants, with the Spanish exerting significant influence on local agriculture and trade. Following the Mexican War of Independence in 1821, the region became part of Mexico. Land grants continued, and settlers began to establish communities, including Tierra Amarilla, founded in the 1830s. After the U.S.-Mexican War (1846-1848), the area was ceded to the United States. Chama was officially established as a railroad town in the late 19th century, serving as a key stop along the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. The area saw growth through agriculture, logging, and tourism, particularly with the development of recreational activities around the nearby rivers and mountains. Chama became known for its scenic landscapes and historical significance. Today, Chama is famous for its scenic railroad and outdoor recreational opportunities, while Tierra Amarilla retains its historical roots and serves as a cultural center for the surrounding communities.
Cumbres & Toltec Train
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
Based in Chama and open to the public, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Historic Landmark. At 64± miles in length, it is the longest, the highest, and most authentic steam railroad in North America, traveling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountain West. Owned by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, the train crosses state borders 11 times, zigzagging along canyon walls, burrowing through two tunnels, and steaming over the 137± foot Cascade Trestle.
El Barranco Ranch is about an hour’s drive from Pagosa Hot Springs, a natural geothermal wonder renowned for its healing mineral waters. The springs are surrounded by the picturesque San Juan Mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Thirty minutes south is the famed Ghost Ranch, located in Abiquiú, New Mexico. This is a stunning retreat renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich artistic history. Once the home of painter Georgia O’Keeffe, the ranch features dramatic red rock formations, vibrant mesas, and expansive vistas that have inspired countless artists. The Ghost Ranch offers a unique blend of art, history, and outdoor adventure, making it a captivating destination for all.
Ghost Ranch - photo courtesy of PD Tillman
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
LOCATION
El Barranco Ranch sits in the scenic northern reaches of New Mexico’s Rocky Mountains near the Colorado border, where the Chama River cuts through striking mesas, timbered slopes, and open valley floors. Positioned in Tierra Amarilla, the property benefits from the area’s quiet rural character and strong connection to the outdoors. It lies roughly 100 miles northeast of Santa Fe and about 70 miles west of Taos, offering both privacy and practical access to wellknown mountain towns. The setting along the Chama River enhances its appeal, providing a gateway to fishing, wildlife, and the broader landscape of northern New Mexico.
El Barranco Ranch lies between Tierra Amarilla and Chama, with direct access off US Highway 84. The ranch gate is easy to find and located on the west side of the highway.
AIRPORT SERVICES
The region is served by several major airports, including Santa Fe Municipal Airport, located roughly 100 miles to the south, Albuquerque International Sunport, approximately 150 miles away, and Durango–La Plata County Airport, located about 120 miles to the northwest. Each provides a range of domestic connections, with Albuquerque offering the broadest service. For private aviation, a full-service FBO is available in Pagosa Springs, just 50 miles from the property. Chama is easily accessed via U.S. Highway 84, providing a straightforward route to nearby communities and services.
WATER RIGHTS
The ranch enjoys substantial senior water rights, enabling the irrigation of its hayfields.
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.
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
CONSERVATION | STEWARDSHIP
Each of us at Fay 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 has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay 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.
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El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
SUMMARY
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River is one of those special properties that has an array of attributes seldom found in one property: 440± acres, agricultural tax rate, multiple income streams, 1.5± miles of two-sided river frontage, outstanding flyfishing, elk and mule deer hunting, and senior water rights for the irrigated hay fields. For investors seeking even more, the 270± acre Upper El Baranco is also available and includes water rights, excellent elk and mule deer hunting, and a well-equipped shop building with power and water. Whether your interest is to create your own farm with a residence, land bank a property with low carrying costs and a variety of income streams, or just own a great recreational and agricultural property, El Barranco is wellsuited for any of those dreams. Located an hour and a half from Santa Fe and one hour to Pagosa Springs, there are no mountain passes to cross, and the property is accessible year-round via US Highway 84 between Tierra Amarilla and Chama, New Mexico.
El Barranco Ranch on the Chama River | Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
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.
$5,900,000 Cash
Conventional Financing 1031 Exchange Agricultural Loan
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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