Rainbow Canyon Ranch
S A R AT O G A / E N C A M P M E N T , W Y O M I N G
Hunting | Ranching | Fly Fishing | Conservation
Rainbow Canyon Ranch
S A R AT O G A / E N C A M P M E N T , W Y O M I N G
Introduction:
Rainbow Canyon Ranch encompasses 480± acres of deeded
and state lease land along both sides of the Encampment
River. The property is spectacularly situated between the
Great Snowy Range and the Sierra Madre Mountains and in
close proximity to the towns of Encampment and Saratoga,
Wyoming.
Rising steeply from the river on one side are large bluffs
and boulders nestled between Needle Peak and Baggott
Rocks, forming the famous canyon. These boulder and
rock formations provide an extraordinary entrance to the
residence with the river on the right and the boulders and
escarpments on the left. The road to the residence follows
the former railway bed of the Saratoga/Encampment
Railroad, which transported copper from the Encampment
mines in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Andrew Coulter, Associate Broker
Cell: 307.349.7510
Brian Hartley, Broker Associate
Cell: 307.690.3155
Toll Free: 866.734.6100
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Introduction (cont’d):
Introduction (cont’d):
The diverse recreational amenities and agricultural assets of Rainbow Canyon Ranch far exceed those of other ranches of
its size. The beautiful Encampment River flows through the ranch and is regarded as one of the finest native “Blue Ribbon”
fisheries in the western United States, providing private fly-fishing as well as other recreational uses.
The main residence, adjoining lodge, and guest residence have been expertly constructed with large logs. The main residence
is 5,400± sqft and the adjoining lodge is 1,900± sqft. The property features a 2-bedroom “Hill Top House” with scenic views.
The ranch improvements also include numerous outbuildings and stables that follow the log construction.
There are no comparable properties within the dramatic and private boundaries of Baggott Rocks. This offering presents a
very special and private property, which for many years has been seen and experienced only by family and close friends of the
current owners. The ranch is a productive oasis primarily consisting of alluvial river bottom with rich soils and lush vegetation.
The gentle topography is nestled between large boulder bluffs to the east and west, with the bulk of the property along
moderately sloping irrigated fields and a sub-irrigated pasture that slopes toward the Encampment River. The Encampment
River’s headwaters originate in the Sierra Madre Mountains to the south in Colorado and carve a beautiful valley as it flows
north and east into the North Platte River. Rainbow Canyon Ranch hosts some of the finest wild trout waters in the Western
United States, in a spectacular geological setting.
Location:
Rainbow Canyon Ranch is 6± miles northeast of Encampment, Wyoming;16± miles southeast of Saratoga, Wyoming; a 3±
hour drive from Fort Collins, Colorado; and a 4± hour drive to Denver International Airport. The ranch is located north
of the Sierra Madre Mountains, which follow the Colorado state line, and is surrounded by some of the country’s most
scenic vistas including the 11,000± foot Snowy Range. The region is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast providing diverse
opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, golfing, rock climbing,
snowmobiling, and cross country skiing. The town of Saratoga is a popular destination for tourists, hunters, birdwatchers,
and anglers. The Old West-style town has shops offering unique items and choice of restaurants. Many visitors also partake
in the natural mineral hot springs and spas, which percolate from the ground by the side of the river. Saratoga is surrounded
by several massive mountain ranges including Elk Mountain, the Snowy Range, and the Sierra Madre. Hundreds of miles
of trails for novice and experienced outdoorsmen meander throughout the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. For the
winter sportsman, the snowmobile trails and ice fishing are popular. Encampment still retains a charm from its frontier
days and is the gateway to the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Medicine Bow National Forest. It is the home of the Grand
Encampment Museum with its collection of memorabilia from when Encampment was a frontier-mining town from the
1890s to 1910s. The Grand Encampment Museum hosts several important events and celebrations, particularly during the
summer months. For more information on Saratoga and the surrounding areas, visit http:// saratoga.chamber.info/
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Agricultural Operation:
The eastern part of Rainbow Canyon Ranch has historically been used for hay production and livestock grazing.
Approximately 200 irrigated acres are used for growing hay with the remainder of the ranch used for livestock grazing.
The current owners raise a herd of over 60 bison, but the property would also be well-suited for cattle, horses, and other
livestock. The ranch’s location, water rights, and protection from the elements enable the pursuit of multiple agricultural
uses.
Approximately 200 acres of irrigated hay fields lie to the east of the river. Together with subirrigated pastures fed by seasonal
and year-round appropriated water the irrigated fields provide quality grass and hay for livestock and wildlife.
Water Rights:
The ranch has substantial water rights and all appurtenant water rights to Rainbow Canyon Ranch will transfer to the buyer
at closing. A water right is the right to use water, both surface and subsurface. In Wyoming, water rights are the rights to
the use of water and not ownership of the water itself. The transfer of water rights is recorded with the State of Wyoming
Engineers Office and the transfer of any right may or may not warrant that right until the adjudication process has been
completed.
Mineral Rights
The seller is not believed to own any mineral rights. All, if any, mineral rights owned by the seller will be conveyed to the
buyer at closing. It is suggested that the buyer conduct a mineral search before purchase.
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Improvements:
Main Residence: Rainbow Canyon Ranch offers a beautiful setting with quality improvements. There are three residences
on Rainbow Canyon Ranch. The main residence is a 5,400± sqft log-constructed dwelling with an upper level wrapped by a
1,000± sqft deck, which provides a beautiful area to enjoy views of the river and the distant mountains. The main residence’s
primary living space is an open-floor plan with a log-beam vaulted ceiling and floor-to-ceiling, native-stone, wood-burning
fireplace.
The kitchen is also an open floor plan with granite counter tops, a dining bar and stone-textured tile floors. The dining room
opens to the living area, making this great room ideal for intimate dining or larger entertaining. There is also a breakfast/sitting
room that is open to the kitchen, integrating the kitchen area as a social space as well as a workspace. The main residence has
central heat and air conditioning along with 4 bedrooms (one of which can be used as an office) and 3 1/2 baths. The finished
lower level has been used as a recreational area with wet bar and stone fireplace.
Lodge: The Lodge is attached by a catwalk to the main residence. The lodge is approximately 1,900± sqft with two bedrooms,
one bath, and a large, complete kitchen. The lodge is equipped with a bar and an open spacious entertaining area that centers
on a fire place built on a small tower of native boulders. The Lodge is perfect for entertaining and also serves as a dwelling
for guests or family members. A fully landscaped and sprinkler-irrigated yard with over an acre of grass gently leads to the
riverbank. The river’s proximity enables residents to enjoy the flowing river sounds.
Hill Top House: Separate and overlooking the ranch is the “Hill Top House.” This air conditioned and heated house is
1,200± sqft with two bedrooms, one bath, a full kitchen, and a comfortable living area. It has a beautiful observation deck with
panoramic views of the river, the pastures, and the mountain ranges.
Outbuildings: Rainbow Canyon Ranch also has a 24’x72’, four bay, multi-car garage/shop constructed with logs. This space
works well as a shop and for storing vehicles and equipment. On the north end of the compound is a two-story, 1,728± sqft
barn/shop. It is currently used as a wood shop and for storage, but it could be remodeled to use as a caretaker’s quarters.
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Live Water:
Fly-fishing on the Rainbow Canyon Ranch is simply excellent.
The beautiful Encampment River flows through the ranch and
is regarded as one of the finest native “Blue Ribbon” fisheries in
the western United States providing private fly-fishing as well
as other recreational uses. The river is a stronghold habitat for
brown, rainbow, and some cutthroat trout and boasts a healthy
population of each species. The river runs into the North Platte
approximately 2.75 miles north of the property, allowing free
migration. The climate, water level, grade, and vegetation along
the ranch’s section of the Encampment River make it highly
productive for wild trout. In 2013, the Wyoming Game and Fish
Department conducted a periodic count on the portion of the river
including Rainbow Canyon Ranch and estimated approximately
1,500 trout in excess of 6 inches. It is not uncommon to catch
rainbow trout in excess of 20 inches and brown trout in excess of
23 inches. These special trout inhabit the private and calm pools,
which are this property’s trademark.
For over 25 years, with a mind towards trout conservation and
population maintenance, the current owners have limited fishing
to catch and release with barbless flies only. The innovative
research on North American trout fishing, “Trout,” by Ray
Bergman, captured vividly the pools at Rainbow Canyon Ranch.
“To make this account more visual I am going to number the
pools, starting with the one furthest upstream from the entrance
to the canyon. We shall call this number one and it was my
favorite. It was large, with a perfect dry-fly run leading into it,
and there one could always take a fish or two, no matter how
unwilling the trout were in other sections of the creek.”
There is a 2± acre spring-fed lake on the property, stocked with
rainbow trout. The lush vegetation along the river serves as an
ideal habitat for a population of deer, pronghorn antelope, and a
variety of other wildlife.
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Recreation:
Golf: 20± minutes away is the Old Baldy Club, a members-only club founded originally in 1964 as a summer retreat. Old
Baldy Club offers members and visitors a unique western experience in an elegant setting. Set in the grand landscape of
Wyoming’s cowboy country, Old Baldy Club began as a place where friends could gather in comfort to test their skills
on the golf course and along a trout stream. Fifty years later, Old Baldy Club still adheres to its original traditions. Old
Baldy also combines a variety of outdoor activities with fine dining and accommodations. The current owners of Rainbow
Canyon Ranch have been members of Old Baldy Club for over 23 years and have used the facilities to entertain and host
family and friends. For more information see: http://oldbaldyclub.com/
Rainbow Canyon Ranch offers
ample opportunities for bird
watching (bald and golden
eagles),
wildlife
viewing
(antelope, mule deer, beaver,
mountain lions), fishing, or
simply walking in the hills and
mountains
surrounding
the
area. Rainbow Canyon Ranch
is ideal for persons who seek to
immerse themselves in a private,
secluded,
and
picturesque
setting located along the banks
of the Encampment River while
also having convenient access to
town and other activities nearby.
Wildlife & Hunting:
The lush vegetation along the river serves as ideal habitat for wildlife. Rainbow
Canyon Ranch has a variety of game including mule deer, pronghorn antelope,
and from time to time elk that descend from higher elevations. Rainbow Canyon
Ranch is in an area that also hosts a variety of waterfowl. The ranch provides private
hunting opportunities with easy access and is close to town amenities
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Wyoming Tax Benefits:
Bloomberg Wealth Management magazine consistently rates Wyoming as the #1 Tax Friendly State in America for both
individuals and corporations. Land ownership in Wyoming can offer significant reductions in federal income taxes through
the strategic use of conservation easements while protecting this valuable resource that we all cherish. Here are the “lucky”
thirteen reasons to purchase and stay in Wyoming for state residents:
No state income tax on personal or corporate
•
Wyoming Close LLC statute
income
•
No tax on out-of-state retirement income
•
No state inheritance tax or estate tax
•
No state gift tax
•
No state excise taxes on gas or food
•
No intangible taxes on financial assets
•
No tax on the sale of real estate
•
No personal property tax on property held for
•
No state capital gains tax
•
Dynasty trusts are permitted to shelter assets from
•
No tax on individual mineral interest
generation to generation
•
Lower property taxes based on the assessed value
•
personal use
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Summary:
Rainbow Canyon Ranch is a wonderful opportunity to own an exceptional property with agricultural and livestock
production capability, ‘blue-ribbon’ fishing, and an unparalleled river setting. With nearly half of the ranch under irrigation,
the property is able to produce an abundance of forage for hay, grazing, and wildlife. The ranch also encompasses a dense
riparian area and lush irrigated hay fields, both of which are highly attractive to wildlife. Rainbow Canyon Ranch has
provided enjoyment for family and friends with a vast array of fishing and other recreational opportunities year-round. The
agricultural amenities for hay, cattle, or bison also answer the desire of many purchasers, who want a “working,” incomeproducing ranch.
Entering the private gates to Rainbow Canyon Ranch with the Encampment River on the right and Baggott Rocks formations
on the left, visitors feel a sense of excitement and knowledge that they are arriving at a place that is special, unique, and
private. Rainbows often appear over the canyon after a light rain shower, serving as a natural guide leading you down the
1± mile private drive to the heart of the ranch.
The current owners believe that the ranch and surrounding terrain has almost magical properties. It’s at Rainbow Canyon
Ranch where memories originate and grow roots. Whether it’s your first trophy trout caught while wading the quiet pools,
a sighting of a bald eagle or great horned owl, relaxing on the expansive deck watching crystalline night skies entirely
devoid of light pollution (with shadows cast only by light from the Milky Way), or simply reading a book in the warmth
of the fire in the lodge, Rainbow Canyon Ranch captures a complete vision of the Great West that many people have only
dreamed about.
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Quick Facts
•
Approximately 480± acres, of which 320± are deeded
•
Wonderful river setting with superb private ‘Blue Ribbon’
fishing on the Encampment River
•
200± irrigated acres
•
Beautiful scenery with native and planned landscaping
•
Excellent hunting
•
Located in a highly coveted area of Wyoming
•
Stunning panoramic views of the area and surrounding
mountains
•
Multiple nearby recreational opportunities
•
2± acre rainbow trout stocked spring-fed pond on property
•
Medical clinic with full service emergency facilities is 15±
minutes away in Saratoga
•
Roofing on residences and outbuildings is composite
granular metal
•
Furnishings are not included in sale
PRICE: $3,950,000
TAXES: $2,054.35 in 2015
CONTACT:
Andrew Coulter, Associate Broker Cell: 307.349.7510
Brian Hartley, Broker Associate Cell: 307.690.3155
Toll Free: 866.734.6100
Notes:
1) This is a co-listing of Live Water Properties LLC and Century 21 High Desert; an agent of Live Water Properties or Century 21 High Desert must be present to conduct a
showing. The owners respectfully request that other agents and/or prospective buyers contact Live Water Properties in advance to schedule a proper showing and do not
attempt to tour or trespass the property on their own. Thank you.
2) Offering subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information provided herein is intended as a
general guideline and has been provided by sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy of which we cannot guarantee.
3) Live Water Properties LLC represents the Seller as a Seller’s Agent.
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State Lease
Maps are for visual aid only ~ accuracy is not guaranteed.
Rainbow Canyon Ranch Aerial Map
Maps are for visual aid only ~ accuracy is not guaranteed.
Rainbow Canyon Ranch Location Map
Maps are for visual aid only ~ accuracy is not guaranteed.
Rainbow Canyon Ranch Terrain Map
Maps are for visual aid only ~ accuracy is not guaranteed.
Rainbow Canyon Ranch Topographical Map