PROPERTY OVERVIEW
Highland Foothills Ranch is set proudly in the Eastern foothills of the Highland Mountains of southwestern Montana, with commanding views of the expansive Jefferson River Valley and inspiring Tobacco Root, Bridger, Snowcrest, and Gravelly Mountains, Highland Foothills Ranch is the impossible-to-find blend of scenic beauty, privacy, functionality, and recreational opportunities. The ranch’s 317+/- acres blend grass pastures, irrigated hay ground, old-growth coniferous and beautiful willows, and aspen trees lining the banks of Dry Creek, which flows for over a half mile through the property year-round. The riparian corridor is rich with wildlife and defines the ranch’s character.
A 41-acre solar-powered, gravity-fed pivot irrigated alfalfa/grass hay field currently provides over 100 tons of hay annually and is joined by 32 acres of flood/k-line irrigated pasture. The ranch currently supports a 50-60 year-round cow-calf operation.
Completed in 2024, the 3900sq ft luxury home features a first-floor primary suite, stone fireplace, chef’s kitchen, wraparound deck, and walk-out basement with guest quarters. A log guest cabin adds flexible space for visitors or rentals. A large barn, original homesteader’s cabin, multiple corrals, and fenced pastures support various livestock use.
Located at the end of a private gravel road, the ranch is secluded but nicely situated near Butte and Bozeman, with all the modern amenities of a mountain town. The world-class fly-fishing waters of the Madison, Jefferson, Beaverhead, Ruby, and Big Hole Rivers are nearby, with all the ingredients for excellent deer and elk hunting on the ranch. Limited regional development helps preserve the remote, wild atmosphere here.
Highland Foothills Ranch is a hard-to-find opportunity to blend a working ag operation and recreation lifestyle on a single piece of property. Exceptional views and well-considered improvements make the work here enjoyable and productive at the same time.
> 317± deeded acres
> 0.65± miles of year round spring fed Dry Creek
> Timbered hillsides, grass meadows and pasture, hay ground and riparian areas
> Custom 3 bed, 3 bath; 3900 sq ft home with cathedral windows and ceilings-positioned perfectly to capture outstanding mountain and valley views completed in 2024
> Large barn with stalls, tack room, hay loft with enclosed and open lean tos. Shop, sheds and charming chicken coop
> Guest cabin with 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and modern utilities, yet supplements by solar power and wood heat
Whitehall, MT | 317± Acres | Offered @ $4.5M
HIGHLAND FOOTHILLS RANCH
COMBINES PRODUCTIVE AGRICULTURAL LAND, ABUNDANT WILDLIFE, AND SWEEPING MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY VIEWS WITH SOLID INFRASTRUCTURE— AN EXCEPTIONAL MONTANA PROPERTY SUITED FOR YEARROUND USE AND LASTING VALUE.
JIM TOTH
MAIN HOME
Completed in 2024, this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home at Highland Foothills Ranch blends modern design with the durability and comfort essential for mountain living. The upper level features a spacious primary suite with an en-suite bath and expansive views that stretch across the valley.
Cathedral ceilings and large windows fill the open-concept kitchen and living area with natural light, creating an airy space with plenty of room to relax, gather, and take in the surrounding landscape. A stone wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and character, while stainless steel appliances and high-quality finishes offer both style and function. A dedicated office, mudroom, and laundry room add smart functionality to the home’s layout.
The main home features a wrap-around deck that takes full advantage of its elevated setting, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and timbered hillsides. It’s a peaceful space to relax, entertain, or simply take in the beauty of the landscape.
The finished walk-out basement offers two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a spacious living area with a cozy wood stove. Large windows bring in natural light, creating a warm and inviting space ideal for relaxing, entertaining, or accommodating guests.
GUEST CABIN
Set just beyond the main home, the three-bedroom, one-bathroom log cabin offers a welcoming and well-equipped space for guests. With its classic log construction and wood-burning fireplace, the cabin provides a warm and authentic Montana feel. It is powered by either solar or traditional electricity and includes a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and comfortable living area— making it ideal for extended stays. Whether hosting family, friends, or visitors, the cabin offers both charm and convenience in a private, scenic setting.
The cabin’s covered porch is a peaceful vantage point, perfectly positioned to take in the natural beauty that surrounds it. Set amid a stand of mature aspens and overlooking a gentle, year-round creek, the porch offers a front-row seat to the sights and sounds of Montana’s high country. The soft rustle of leaves and the quiet flow of water create a calming backdrop, while expansive views stretch across the Tobacco Root, Ruby, and Highland Mountains. Whether enjoying a quiet morning coffee or unwinding at the end of the day, this space invites you to slow down and connect with the land.
OUTBUILDINGS
At the heart of the ranch’s infrastructure is a thoughtfully constructed multi-purpose barn, built in 2015 to support agricultural operations and the care and housing of animals.The main center section of the barn measures 48’ x 75’ (±3,600 square feet) with a full loft above, adding another ±3,600 square feet of usable space—ideal for storing hay, equipment, or future build-out.
Flanking the main structure are two 16’ x 75’ (±1,200 square feet each) lean-tos. The west-side lean-to is fully enclosed, providing secure storage for equipment, vehicles, or feed, while the east-side lean-to remains open, offering direct access to horse stalls and allowing for efficient livestock movement and shelter.
The barn includes dedicated horse stalls, a tack room, and ample space for equipment storage or workshop use, making it a versatile centerpiece for daily ranch operations. A separate 12’ x 24’ (±288 square feet) heated shop—well-maintained and easily accessible—adds further utility for tools, repairs, and essential supplies.
Additional improvements enhance the property’s year-round functionality. A 9’ x 20’ (±180 square feet) wood-framed greenhouse features raised cedar beds and automatic windows, creating the perfect environment for cultivating vegetables and flowers across seasons. A standalone chicken coop contributes to the ranch’s self-sufficiency and rural charm, ideal for small-scale poultry production or hobby farming.
Together, these improvements reflect the ranch’s practical design and operational readiness, supporting a wide range of agricultural, equestrian, and recreational pursuits in a private, scenic Montana setting.
HUNTING
Highland Foothills Ranch is a mountain property with agricultural utility and strong wildlife presence. Located in general Montana’s Hunting District 340, the ranch regularly draws elk and mule deer to its productive fields and timbered cover. The ranch corners a section of state land and sits just two miles from the Deerlodge-Beaverhead National Forest, providing additional wildlife habitat in the area. Each fall, the Highland Mountains see consistent elk and deer activity, making this a practical location for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
The property also includes a private short-range black powder shooting range—ideal for practice and preparation.
FISHING
Located near the Jefferson River, Highland Foothills Ranch also offers quick access to some of southwest Montana’s best fishing. The Jefferson is known for its brown and rainbow trout, with options for both wade and float fishing just minutes from Whitehall. For something more relaxed, the Whitehall Community Pond—only a few miles from town—is regularly stocked and great for anglers of all ages. Kountz Bridge, about six miles southwest, provides convenient river access with a boat launch. And for a more scenic outing, Delmoe Lake sits just 15 miles away, tucked in the hills and perfect for a peaceful day on the water. Whether you’re a serious angler or just enjoy casting a line now and then, the area offers a variety of fishing experiences close to home.
Brown trout caught on the Jefferson River
RANCH OPERATIONS
Highland Foothills Ranch offers a well-balanced agricultural setup with infrastructure and acreage suited for both hay production and livestock operations. A solar-powered, gravity-fed center pivot efficiently irrigates approximately 41± acres of productive ground, currently yielding an estimated 100 tons of grass hay annually providing reliable on-site feed for a variety of animals. Hay production could be increased significantly with replanting the alfalfa and implementing a fertilization program.
The ranch is currently home to a diversified livestock operation that includes approximately 42 head of yak and 30 head of cattle. In addition to traditional livestock such as cattle and sheep, the current owners also raise yaks, donkeys, goats, chickens, and hogs—demonstrating the property’s versatility and capacity for mixed-use agricultural purposes. With reliable water sources, ample shelter, and well-maintained infrastructure in place, the ranch is well-positioned for continued livestock operations, hobby farming, or expanded agricultural production.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Highland Foothills Ranch is perfectly positioned just outside Whitehall, Montana, where sweeping landscapes, rich heritage, and outdoor adventure come together. A short drive from the property, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park offers guided tours through Montana’s largest limestone cave system, filled with dramatic underground formations. In Whitehall, the Jefferson Valley Museum and the Western Legacy Center provide a window into the region’s past and the enduring spirit of the American West.
Not far from the ranch, the Ringing Rocks create bell-like tones when struck—a strange and fascinating natural feature. The surrounding Tobacco Root Mountains are a haven for hikers, campers, and wildlife watchers, offering endless opportunities to explore Montana’s backcountry.
The ranch also enjoys close access to two of the state’s most storied communities. About an hour away, Butte provides everything from grocery stores and restaurants to medical facilities and a regional airport. Once a booming copper town, Butte is now known for its historic Uptown district, the World Museum of Mining, and year-round cultural events. Just 45 minutes from the property, Virginia City is a remarkably preserved gold rush town with original buildings, wooden boardwalks, and seasonal attractions like stagecoach rides and performances at the historic Opera House. Together, these nearby destinations add convenience, character, and a strong sense of place to life at Highland Foothills Ranch.
WINTER RECREATION
Highland Foothills Ranch offers convenient access to several of Montana’s top winter recreation destinations, making it an excellent home base for a variety of cold-weather pursuits:
Discovery Ski Area – Just over an hour from the ranch, Discovery features 61 runs across 614 acres of skiable terrain. Known for its uncrowded slopes and diverse mix of beginner to expert trails, it’s a local favorite for relaxed yet rewarding downhill skiing.
Big Sky Resort – Roughly 90 minutes away, Big Sky is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, with over 5,800 acres of terrain and a 4,350-foot vertical drop. It offers everything from groomed cruisers to extreme terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Homestake Lodge – Located near the Continental Divide, Homestake offers more than 35 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, ideal for those seeking a quieter, more scenic winter experience.
Snowmobiling – The surrounding region offers extensive snowmobiling opportunities, with access to groomed trails and backcountry terrain in the nearby Highland and Tobacco Root mountain ranges.
Whether you’re drawn to alpine slopes, Nordic trails, or open mountain terrain for snowmobiling, the ranch’s central location puts a wide range of winter adventure within easy reach.
NEARBY CITIES & TOWNS
STAR, MT
WHITEHALL, MT
TWIN BRIDGES, MT BOZEMAN, MT
AIRPORTS
BERT MOONEY AIRPORT BUTTE, MT
BOZEMAN YELLOWSTONE INTL. AIRPORT BOZEMAN, MT
SILVER
CLIMATE
AVERAGE ELEVATION
AVERAGE RAIN PER YEAR
AVERAGE SNOW PER YEAR
AVERAGE SUMMER HIGH
AVERAGE WINTER LOW
AVERAGE SUNNY DAYS PER YEAR
AVERAGE DAYS OF PRECIPITATION PER YEAR
5,906 FT 12 IN 36 IN JUL, 85° JAN, 14° 183 85
WHITEHALL, MT
$4,500,000
317± ACRES
SUMMARY
Tucked away in Montana’s Highland Mountains and commanding views of the Jefferson River Valley, Highland Foothills Ranch is a rare blend of scenic solitude, natural beauty and turn key functionality. Spanning approximately 317 acres, this mountain ranch offers commanding views across ten separate mountain ranges, including the Tobacco Roots, Bridgers, Gravelly, and Snowcrest. With a 2024 built main home and secluded location at the end of a private gravel road, Highland Foothills Ranch is the kind of place that feels far away—yet is still close enough for year-round access and practical operation.
• 317± deeded acres in the Ruby Valley near Whitehall, MT
• Custom 3 BR/3 BA main home (built 2024) with finished walk-out basement
• 41± acres of irrigated hay ground with solar-powered gravity-fed pivot
• Barn with stalls, tack room, and loft; plus shop, sheds, and lean-tos
CONDITIONS OF SALE
• All purchase offers must be in writing and specify an earnest money amount equal to no less than 5.00% of the Buyer’s offering price. Earnest monies shall be deposited in escrow within 5 business days of acceptance of the offer by both parties.
• All Buyers must provide the contact information of the Buyer’s banker or financial institution that can assist the Sellers and their agents in validating the Buyer’s financial ability to execute the transaction. All Purchasers must demonstrate to the Seller’s satisfaction unquestioned financial capability to purchase the property.
• The Sellers will provide and pay for a standard owner’s title insurance policy. Any endorsements requested by the Buyer or any lender will be at the Buyer’s expense. Title to the real property will be conveyed by warranty deed.
• All of the Ranch’s water rights will be transferred to the Buyer and all of the mineral rights which the Seller actually owns will be conveyed to the Buyer at Closing.
TERMS
The Seller reserves the right to effect a tax-deferred exchange for other real property in accordance with provisions in Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code. The Buyer will not be required to incur any additional expenses nor to step into the chain of title on any property which the Seller may acquire.
This entire Offering is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by the Seller. Information regarding land classifications, acreages, carrying capacities, crop yields, potential profits, etc., is intended only as generic guidelines and have been obtained from sources deemed reliable; however, accuracy is not warranted or guaranteed by the Seller or Western Ranch Brokers. Prospective Buyers should verify all information to their sole and complete satisfaction.
OUR TEAM
JIM TOTH
Broker (Licensed in MT) (406) 539-2550
jim@westernranchbrokers.com
20 years of experience as a ranch broker, Jim Toth knows that land is worth more than just its physical assets. With a career built in the agriculture business, private ranch management, and as one of the busiest outfitters in Western Montana, Jim knows the view from the saddle as well as the view from the office and how important they are to each other. But he just might not take off his boots in the conference room.
Jim also understands the value and importance of tillable acreage, how cattle stocking rate affects rangelands, the ins-and-outs of water rights, habitat management, and a lot more. Along with a desire to get to know a prospective seller or buyer, Jim’s ability to gauge a property’s values and understand the desires of a buyer is a large part of his success–the rest of his successes are the result of his approachable and personable demeanor.
Always willing to share a favorite fishing hole or be the one to buy the first round, Jim finds that nearly all of his clients come to him first through business but then remain as friends. In 1991, he opened the Grizzly Hackle fly shop in Missoula, a brand that became synonymous with fly fishing in Southwest Montana. When his fishing clients started turning to him for help buying Montana ranches of their own, ranch brokering became a logical next step in his career. In 2002, he sold the fly shop and dedicated all of his time to ranch brokerage, eventually founding Western Ranch Brokers.
Jim and his wife Cassandra split their time between Bozeman and the Bitterroot Valley in Montana. When not fishing or in the mountains, they enjoy traveling the West to visit their adult children.
LET OUR EXPERIENCE LEAD THE WAY
The team at Western Ranch Brokers brings a level of expertise and hands-on ranch experience you won’t find anywhere else. We are here to ensure you have a reliable, trustworthy, hardworking advisor when buying or selling a ranch. Our handshake is backed by a team of tireless professionals committed to your interests.
RELATIONSHIPS IN REAL ESTATE
MONTANA
Montana law requires real estate licensees who are acting as agents of sellers or buyers of real property to advise the potential sellers or buyers with whom they work of the nature of their agency relationship.
SELLERS AGENTS
A seller’s agent, under a listing agreement with the seller, acts solely on behalf of the seller. A seller can authorize a seller’s agent to work with subagents, buyer’s agents and/or transaction coordinators. A subagent of the seller is one who has agreed to work with the listing agent, and who, like the listing agent, acts solely on behalf of the seller. Seller’s agents and their subagents will disclose to the seller known information about the buyer which may be used to the benefit of the seller. Individual services may be waived by the seller through execution of a limited service agreement.
BUYERS AGENTS
A buyer’s agent, under a buyer’s agency agreement with the buyer, acts solely on behalf of the buyer. A subagent of the buyer is one who has agreed to work with the buyer’s agent with who, like the buyer’s agent, acts solely on behalf of the buyer. Buyer’s agents and their subagents will disclose to the buyer known information about the seller which may be used to benefit the buyer. Individual services may be waived by the buyer through execution of a limited service agreement.
DUAL AGENTS
A real estate licensee can be the agent of both the seller and the buyer in a transaction, but only with the knowledge and informed consent, in writing, of both the seller and the buyer. In such a dual agency situation, the licensee will not be able to disclose all known information to either the seller or the buyer. As a dual agent, the licensee will not be able to provide the full range of fiduciary duties to the seller or buyer. The obligations of a dual agent are subject to any specific provisions set forth in any agreement between the dual agent, the seller and the buyer.