Wilderness 40 is a rare 40-acre holding centered around a striking private pond fed by the live waters of Second Creek, creating a constant water source that enhances the property's beauty while supporting exceptional wildlife habitat year-round. Rolling ground layered with native grasses, oak brush, scattered aspens, and thick serviceberry surrounds the water, producing vibrant seasonal contrast and natural cover.
Wilderness 40 holds excellent potential for a custom cabin overlooking the pond and surrounding draws, or just a private retreat immersed in panoramic alpine views. With nearly a quarter mile of frontage along Second Creek Road, the ranch offers convenient, reliable access within a mountain setting. The terrain gently rises and falls around the pond, forming brush-filled draws, open pockets of grass, and thicker bedding cover that naturally funnel wildlife through the property. The pond sits tucked into the landscape, ringed by willows, aspens, cottonwoods, and shrubs that create ideal edge habitat and travel corridors.
The west boundary directly adjoins more than 700 acres of public BLM ground, effectively expanding the feel and function of this property far beyond its deeded acreage. This direct public interface allows wildlife to move freely between large tracts of undisturbed ground and the dependable water and cover found on this property. In addition, Wilderness Ranch members enjoy access to the additional 460 +/- acre private reserve for hunting, hiking, fishing, and exploring beyond your own boundaries.
Located in GMU 4, the ranch lies in a region well known for consistent big game activity, with over-the-counter elk tags available for the 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons. Elk, deer, moose, bear, and blue grouse frequent the property and surrounding lands. The presence of live water, dense cover, and immediate access to BLM creates an ideal combination for wildlife use throughout the seasons.
In addition to the private reserve access provided through Wilderness Ranch, nearby Routt National Forest offers alpine lakes, trout streams, extensive trail systems, and expansive backcountry to explore. Winter transforms the area into a destination for snowmobiling and cold-weather recreation, making this a true four-season property.
Wilderness 40 remains within practical reach of regional services. Craig is approximately one hour to the southwest and provides groceries, fuel, hardware, dining, and medical services. Baggs sits just over 30 minutes to the northwest for fuel and convenience needs. Commercial air travel is available at Yampa Valley Regional Airport, roughly an hour and a half to the southeast. Continuing past Hayden, Steamboat Springs offers skiing, rafting, shopping, and dining for year-round recreation and entertainment.