Rich Johnson

$950,000

251.5 Acres

Garden Valley, California, 95633

Round Spur Ranch is a breathtaking 251.5 acre retreat located in El Dorado County and the heart of California's Gold Country. Just minutes from the historic gold discovery sites along the American River, the property consists of 2 legal parcels, and is a short 30 minute drive to the cities of Auburn to the north and Placerville to the south along Highway 49, and for the off-road enthusiast, the world-famous Rubicon Trail to the east.Land This exceptional property provides excellent opportunity for on- or off-grid living. The property is comprised of two adjacent parcels totaling 251.5 acres. Parcel 1 is 157.8 acres and  Parcel 2 is 93.7 acres. Both parcels are zoned RL-40 (40-acre- Rural Lands), allowing the property to be subdivided into multiple 40-acre minimum parcels*.The land includes mild to moderately sloped ridgetops, and  moderately steep canyons forested with a rich variety of trees, shrubs and grasses. Some of the tree species include Black Oak, Madrone,  Live Oak, Douglas Fir, Ponderosa Pine, Sugar Pine, and Incense Cedar. Multiple year-round  and seasonal creeks runs through both parcels ,and a seasonal pond is located on Parcel 2. A 5 +/-  acre ridgetop orchard is planted in English Walnut on Parcel 2 and suitable for other crops as well (see Map).The property has multiple access points: Bear Creek Road along the western boundary provides 1 non-gated and 2 gated driveways, Dewer Road (gated) at the south end of the property, and Round Spur (Forest Road 12N81B, gated) at the eastern boundary. The internal roads provide access throughout the property with most roads leading to El Dorado National Forest out the eastern gate.. There are several excellent ridgetop building sites on the property that could be developed for a variety of uses, including: homes, outbuildings, cabins, recreational retreat facilities, storage for off-road and recreational vehicles, equipment and more.  This seemingly untouched land includes rich habitat for a variety of wildlife and supplies a wide range of opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast.*Subject to El Dorado County and other local zoning and development standards and guidelines.See the Recreation section for more.Improvements The property includes a 50′ vintage 1 bedroom-1 bath mobile home, a 35′ mobile office trailer converted to a 1 bedroom- 1/2 bath cabin, a 16′ camp trailer, a 10’X10′ storage shed, and a garage consisting of two 40′ storage containers with roof. Water to both parcels is provided by a private 220′ well that was capable of producing over 100 gallons of water per minute when it was installed.  Water is connected by underground service at the 50′ mobile home, the 35′ office trailer, and irrigation lines are run into the orchard. Power is provided at a 200A service drop at the primary ridgetop, with underground service to the well, and overhead service to the trailer compound. Primary legal access is via a gated driveway off Bear Creek Road with multiple access roads (historically used for logging) meander throughout the property.Recreation The mountain communities of El Dorado County provide year-around delight and adventure. Lake Tahoe is within a short drive east on US-50 or I-80 with world-class amenities at Heavenly Mountain Resort, Palisades Tahoe, Northstar California Resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, and more featuring some of the west’s best powder skiing, is just over an hour away.  The world-famous Rubicon Trail is nearby along with hundreds of miles of trails for your off-road adventures. The mighty American River and its branches and tributaries are only minutes away providing tremendous flyfishing opportunities along with white-water rafting and kayaking. There are a multitude of mountain lakes with a short drive including Stumpy Meadows Reservoir,  Ice House Reservoir, Union Valley Reservoir, Jenkinson Lake and many more. The Sierra Nevadas provide endless outdoor recreation activities including white-water rafting, gold prospecting, hiking, biking, camping, hunting, fishing, boating, wine tasting, dining, golfing, winter snow sports, summer water sports and everything in between are found in every direction. A sportsperson’s paradise with endless recreational opportunities. See the Resource Links for much more information.Agriculture The property is heavily forested with potential timber harvest income with new tree growth since last logged over 30 years ago. The ridgetop orchard is planted in English Walnut and may be suitable for additional crops in the 3e soil classification (see Soils Report).Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources Water and mineral rights convey with the property.Region & Climate This private and secluded Garden Valley property is your gateway to El Dorado County adventures. Year-round sports, recreation, hunting and fishing are at your footsteps with numerous lakes, rivers, streams, campgrounds and public lands throughout the region. Sitting at just over 2,000 feet in elevation, the area provides excellent climate and weather for visitors and year-round residents. The quaint mountain towns nearby provide ample amenities including restaurants,. shopping, farmers’ markets, and artisan crafts.History Garden Valley, California lies between Georgetown and Coloma in El Dorado County, at the junction of Irish and Empire Creeks, and had a post office by 1852. It is said that the name was given because it was more profitable to grow vegetables there than to mine. However, it was a busy mining area by 1852.Tucked in the heart of El Dorado County, Garden Valley is a peaceful and picturesque Californian community that offers an idyllic retreat from the bustling city life, while being comfortably nestled between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe. It boasts a winning combination of serene surroundings of the countryside, the tranquil ambiance of a small-town, and scenic vistas of the landscape, characterized by undulating hills, extensive forests, and crystal-clear creeks.The outdoor opportunities in and around Garden Valley are nearly limitless. The picturesque Coloma-Lotus Valley is rich in history, with class 3 rated South Fork of the American River offering unrivaled sports such as white-water rafting and kayaking. The landscape has numerous parks, extensive hiking and horseback riding trails, not to mention a variety of wineries and restaurants within a few minute’s drive.Location Garden Valley also enjoys an enviable location near the historic city of Placerville, known for its outdoor activities set against the backdrop of farms, vineyards, and orchards. The strategic positioning gives you the most of two worlds: just an hour away from vast metropolitan delights in Sacramento and recreational possibilities in South Lake Tahoe. The city is around half a day’s drive from San Francisco or Reno and a few minutes to Georgetown. The close proximity to Hwys 193, 49, and 50 also makes commuting and traveling significantly convenient.

$499,000

40.02 Acres

Cool, California, 95614

Cool Spring Estate is a 40.02 acre property located in El Dorado County and in the heart of California's Gold Country. Within a 30 minute drive to the cities of Auburn to the north and Placerville to the south along Highway 49, the landscape is rich in California history including historic gold discovery sites along the American River and the Georgetown Divide. Land This unique property provides excellent opportunity for your country home and equestrian lifestyle. The property is zoned RE-10 (10-acre- Residential Estate), allowing the property to be subdivided into multiple 10-acre minimum parcels*. A majority of the property is accessed by Lou Allen Lane and lies south of HWY 193; and a small 3.5+/- acre portion falls north of HWY 193 adjacent to Circle Drive.The land includes a mild to moderately sloped hill top, and gently sloped pasture areas with a rich variety of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses. Some of the tree species include Black Oak, Live Oak, Blue Pine, and Sugar Pine. Several springs and seasonal creeks occur on the property as well as a portion of the Georgetown Ditch. The former home site includes a garden with grape vines and several fruit and nut trees.The property is accessed directly from Georgetown Road/ HWY 193 via Lou Allen Lane. There are several excellent building sites on the property that could be developed for a variety of uses, including: homes, barns, paddocks, outbuildings, storage for off-road and recreational vehicles, equipment and more. This land includes rich habitat for a variety of wildlife and supplies a wide range of opportunities for the outdoor and equestrian enthusiast.*Subject to El Dorado County and other local zoning and development standards and guidelines.Improvements The property includes a former homesite with a well and septic installed on the central hillside, and a former accessory dwelling site with separate septic installed. A natural spring with springbox is located at the southeast property corner and is in use by land owner for supplemental water supply. Irrigation Water is also available from the Georgetown Public Utility District via a water ditch occuring on the property. Power is available on the property by an existing electric distribution line located on the property and currently servicing neighboring homes. Lou Allen Lane runs the length of the property and is a well-maintained 20-foot wide gravel road providing access to the estate and neighboring properties. A private gravel driveway leads from Lou Allen Lane to the former homesite on the hill. The property is partially fenced along Georgetown Road and the eastern property line.Recreation The foothill and mountain communities of El Dorado County and nearby Placer County, provide year-around delight and adventure. The Auburn State Recreation Area is minutes away providing access to over 100 miles of hiking and equestrian trials including the Western States Trail, as well as Class IV and V whitewater rafting and kayaking along the North and Middle Forks of the American River. The South Fork of the American River and its branches and tributaries are also a short drive away providing tremendous flyfishing opportunities along with white-water rafting and kayaking. The world-famous Rubicon Trail is nearby along with hundreds of miles of trails for your off-road adventures. There are a multitude of mountain and foothill lakes within a short drive including Stumpy Meadows Reservoir, Ice House Reservoir, Union Valley Reservoir, Lake Clementine, Folsom Lake, and many more. The Sierra Nevada and Foothills provide endless outdoor recreation activities including white-water rafting, gold prospecting, hiking, biking, camping, hunting, fishing, boating, wine tasting, dining, golfing, winter snow sports, summer water sports and everything in between are found in every direction. A sportsperson’s paradise with endless recreational opportunities. See the Resource Links for much more information.Agriculture The property is primarily suitable for grazing of livestock with areas for potential limited cultivation (see Soils Report). 1 Miners Inch (11.22 gpm) of Irrigation water is available via the Georgetown Public Utilities District ditch that runs within the property boundary.Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources Water and mineral rights convey with the property.Region & Climate This easily accessed property is your gateway to Gold Country and Sierra Nevada adventures. Year-round sports, recreation, hunting and fishing are at your footsteps with numerous lakes, rivers, streams, campgrounds and public lands throughout the region. Sitting at just over 1,600 feet in elevation, the area provides excellent climate and weather for visitors and year-round residents. The quaint mountain and foothill towns nearby provide ample amenities including restaurants, breweries, shopping, farmers’ markets, and artisan crafts.History Cool is a small town in El Dorado County. It has only one flashing red light at the intersection of Hwy 49 and Hwy 193. If you go straight on Hwy 49 you will come to Placerville, California (aka: Hangtown), but if you turn left at this intersection onto Hwy 193, you will be heading toward the town of Georgetown, CA, another historic town 14 miles down the road. Cool is approximately five miles from the confluence of the North and Middle Forks of the American River.The Hwy 49 bridge that crosses at the confluence, marks the El Dorado and Placer county borders. The town of Cool is approximately 15 miles from Coloma, California where gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill; that discovery marked the beginning of the California “Gold Rush.” Lastly, there is a trail through Cool that is unobstructed and goes clear to the Tahoe area (approximately 100 miles) known as the Western States Trail. This trail is used for annual long distance endurance races for runners and horse riders. The first post office was established in 1885. Penobscot Public House, established in 1850, was a way station and stage coach stop during the days of the Gold Rush. The famous Penobscot Ranch still exists today.Location Cool enjoys an enviable location near the historic city of Auburn, known for its outdoor activities set against the backdrop of farms, vineyards, and orchards. The strategic positioning gives you the most of two worlds: just an hour away from vast metropolitan delights in Sacramento and recreational possibilities in Lake Tahoe. The town is less than a half a day’s drive from San Francisco or Reno and a few minutes to Georgetown, Greenwood, and Garden Valley. The close proximity to HWY 193, HWY 49, and I-80 also makes commuting and traveling significantly convenient.

$495,000

1.03 Acres

Mccloud, California, 96057

Enjoy the serenity of Siskiyou County from this modern cabin sitting on just over 1 acre at the foot of Mt Shasta. Built in 2021, the 1,008 sq ft home features an open floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, stainless steel appliances, wood-burning stove, vaulted ceilings, and blued pine trim and panelling throughout. A wrap-around porch provides outdoor living space to soak up the sunshine and fresh mountain air.Land The home sits on just over 1 acre that is cleared and mostly flat with many tall pines trees with plenty of room for outdoor living, garden, and RV parking.Improvements New 1008 sq ft home with 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, laundry room, and spacious kitchen and living room areas. Power is connected and water is provided by a well on the property. Home comes equipped with a Fire Suppression System.Recreation Recreation opportunities are abundant within a short drive including snow skiing at Mt Shasta Ski Park, fishing on the nearby McCloud and Pitt Rivers, and boating and fishing on Shasta Lake Lake McCloud, and Lake Siskiyou. The Shasta-Trinity National Forest and nearby private lands provide tremendous big game hunting opportunities including Zone X1 trophy Blacktail Deer, Rocky Mountain Elk, and Black Bear.Region & Climate McCloud, California, nestled in the shadow of Mount Shasta, enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Summer temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit, perfect for outdoor pursuits, while winter brings ample snowfall, averaging around 50 inches annually, transforming the area into a snowy wonderland. The nearby McCloud River, with its stunning waterfalls—Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls—offers excellent fishing for trout, hiking along scenic trails, and kayaking for adventure seekers. In warmer months, locals and visitors flock to Lake McCloud for boating, swimming, and picnicking. When snow blankets the region, Mount Shasta becomes a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, drawing enthusiasts to its slopes. This blend of climate and geography makes McCloud a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts.History McCloud, California, began as a bustling lumber town in the late 19th century, shaped by the McCloud River Lumber Company, which was established in 1896 by founders George W. Scott and William Van Arsdale. Originally named after Alexander Roderick McLeod, a Hudson’s Bay Company trapper who explored the area in 1829, the town’s spelling shifted to “McCloud” by the 1860s, possibly to honor pioneer Ross McCloud. The lumber company dominated the region, owning the town and its infrastructure—housing, utilities, and even the McCloud Hotel—earning it the nickname “Mother McCloud” for its nurturing role. The railroad, built to transport timber, fueled economic growth until the industry declined, with the mill closing permanently in 2002 after changing hands several times, including to U.S. Plywood in 1963 and P&M Cedar Products in 1980. Privatized in 1963, McCloud transitioned from a company town to a community preserving its historic charm, now a National Register Historic District, while embracing tourism drawn by its natural beauty and Mount Shasta backdrop.Location The property is located just outside the historic town of McCloud, less than 30 minutes from Interstate 5 and 1 hour from city of Redding. The towns of Mt Shasta, Dunsmuir, Fall River Mills, and Burney are a short drive away.

$199,000

20 Acres

Greenwood, California, 95635

The Black Ridge Estate is a 20- Acre vacant property located in Greenwood, California. With RE-10 zoning allowing a potential lot split, the property features multiple potential hilltop build sites, an abundance of wildlife, hardwood and softwood tree species, and a seasonal creek. Land The private and secluded 20-acre property is accessed by Black Ridge Road, a well-maintained private road, and is ½ mile off of Greenwood Road. Electric service is available from PG&E from a residential distribution line adjacent to the property boundary along Black Ridge Road. Georgetown Public Utility District water is available via a nearby connection. The moderately sloped terrain offers tremendous habitat for wild animals as well as plenty of forage for livestock. The property has an abundance of oak, pine, and douglas fir trees as well as a variety of native shrubs.Recreation El Dorado County is a paradise for all who enjoy the great outdoors. The nearby North, Middle, and South Forks of the American River provide excellent recreation opportunities on the water including fly fishing the clear cold waters and white water rafting adventures along the river canyons, More fishing and boating adventures are available at nearby Folsom Lake, and Stumpy Meadows Reservoir.  Within a short drive, El Dorado National Forest provides an expansive array of recreation activities in the Sierra Nevada High Country all the way to the Lake Tahoe basin.Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources Water and mineral rights convey.Region & Climate The Sierra Nevada Foothills are renowned for the mild climate with cool winters transitioning to blue skies and warm temperatures through the spring, summer, and fall.History El Dorado County is California’s Gold Country. Early pioneers and miners flocked to the area in pursuit of riches after the discovery of  gold at Coloma. Evidence of historic mining activities can be found throughout the County.Location Greenwood is located on the Georgetown Divide in El Dorado County between the Middle and South Forks of the American River. The communities of Georgetown, Cool, Garden Valley, Lotus, and Coloma are only a short drive away. Placerville, the county seat, to the south is a 30 minute drive and Auburn to the north is 20 minutes away in Placer County along the historic Highway 49.  California’s capital, Sacramento, is approximately 45 minutes away via Interstate 80 or US 50.

$1,499,000

110.83 Acres

Somerset, California, 95684

Embrace California's western heritage on the historic Albright Ranch, a 110-acre working cattle ranch located in Somerset, El Dorado County. This property features a 1940's vintage ranch house, large barn, workshop, greenhouse, guest house, pear orchard, multiple water wells, 2-acre bass pond, and is fully fenced and crossfenced. The gently rolling terrain has mature oaks, pines, and open grasslands suitable for a wide variety of wildlife.Land The Albright Ranch is a 110-acre cattle ranch located in Somerset, California. Once a portion of the historic Meyer Ranch nearby, the ranch is situated between the North and Middle Forks of the Consumnes River. The ranch is a short 20 minute drive to Placerville to the north and Jackson to the South.  Sitting at an elevation of approximately 2,400 feet, the gently rolling hills of the ranch provide mature native oaks, conifers, and open grasslands suitable for a wide variety of livestock and wildlife.  Water is abundant on the ranch with multiple natural springs, a year-round pond, and several productive water wells.  Located in the Fairplay AVA wine growing region and surrounded by neighboring vineyards, the ranch’s favorable soils may have the potential for planting a vineyard, expanded fruit orchard, or other crops. The Ranch is under an active Williamson Act conservation contract.Improvements The Albright Ranch features a 1940’s vintage ranch house with 2,439 sq ft, 4-plus bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a large outdoor deck.  The detached 1,300 sq ft garage and workshop provides plenty of room for tools, equipment, and toys. Within the ranch house complex, a large 1,800 sq ft barn includes a tackroom, hay storage, office, and blacksmith shop. Attached to the barn is 6 enclosed and covered horse stalls. A corral provides an area to contain and sort livestock, and includes a squeeze chute. Nearby is a 450 sq ft greenhouse to exercise your green thumb. The Ranch also includes a 1,800 sq foot manufactured home suitable for a rental, guest house, or onsite housing for a hired hand.  There are multiple water wells that provide domestic water to the ranch and to the livestock. The 1-acre orchard is planted in mature Asian Pears. The natural springs on the ranch feed an approximate 2-acre year-round bass pond behind an earthen dam. Several other smaller seasonal ponds with dams are located throughout the property.  The Ranch is fully fenced along the perimeter and crossfenced creating multiple pastures.Recreation The interior of the Ranch is accessible via a network of roads and trails that brings visitors through open grasslands, oak woodlands, and mixed conifer forest. Perfect for between-the-ears trail rides on horseback or on ATVs.  For the hunter, the varied terrain and vegetation offers excellent habitat for for wildlife including wild turkey and blacktail deer. The 2-acre spring-fed pond is the perfect opportunity to get a line wet and reel in a bass.  Within just a short drive,  the lands of the El Dorado National Forest, with thousands of acres to explore, hundreds of miles of trails,  cold mountain streams, and high-country alpine lakes, is a outdoorsman’s paradise.Agriculture The Albright Ranch is primarily used currently for cattle grazing on its open grasslands and woodlands.  Situated in the Fairplay AVA, the upper portion of the ranch along Grizzly Flat Road was once planted in wine grapes and currently features a small 1-acre Asian Pear orchard and several large walnut trees near the ranch house. With it rich soils and plentiful water, the Ranch can support a variety of agricultural uses and is  subject to an active  Williamson Act conservation contract.Region & Climate Somerset, California, is located in the Sierra Foothills and experiences a climate defined by its elevation, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. This seasonal variety supports a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and water sports to wine tasting and camping.Outdoor activities:Hiking and trailsThe Sly Park Recreation Area is a key destination near Somerset, offering an 8.5-mile loop trail around Jenkinson Lake suitable for hiking, walking, and mountain biking. The area also features a popular waterfall.The Eldorado National Forest borders the area and provides numerous trails for more extensive hiking.For an easy, scenic hike, an unnamed trail leads to a waterfall on Mormon Emigrant Trail and offers swimming opportunities in the cold water during warm weather.Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, slightly further afield, offers trails with views of the American RiverWater recreationJenkinson Lake, within Sly Park Recreation Area, is a hub for water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating, with boat rentals available.The South Fork American River offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, particularly during the late spring and summer months.CampingThe region has several campgrounds, including locations near Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park Recreation Area and KOA sites that cater to both tent campers and RVs.Wine tasting and vineyard toursAs part of the Fair Play American Viticultural Area (AVA), Somerset is surrounded by vineyards that offer outdoor tasting experiences. Wineries often have scenic grounds and patios where guests can relax and enjoy the scenery.Saluti Cellars offers unique “EquWine Experiences,” combining horseback riding through the vineyards with wine tasting.Climate and seasonal featuresSummer: The summer months are warm and dry, with average high temperatures reaching into the low 90s °F (around 33 °C) in July. The higher elevation means evenings are much cooler, which is beneficial for both camping and grape growing.Autumn: The weather in the fall is mild, and the changing foliage creates a scenic landscape for outdoor activities. Wine harvest festivals are a popular attraction during this time.Winter: Winters are cool and wet, with December being one of the coldest and wettest months. Rain and cooler temperatures mean fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.Spring: Spring brings mild temperatures and vibrant wildflowers, creating ideal conditions for hiking and exploring.History The town of Somerset, California, was founded in the mid-19th century during the Gold Rush as a trading post. In the modern era, it has become known as a peaceful wine-growing region in the Sierra Nevada foothills.Early history and Gold Rush eraEstablishment: Somerset was settled in 1856 by former residents of Somerset, Ohio, who named the new community after their hometown.Trading post: In its early years, Somerset served as a small but important trading stop for miners and others traveling to nearby mining towns like Grizzly Flat, Fair Play, and Indian Diggings.The Somerset Hotel: Around 1864, the Somerset Hotel was a prominent local landmark and featured in an important story in El Dorado County’s history. It was a site connected to the infamous Bullion Bend stagecoach robbery, which took place nearby.Pony Express trail: Some historical accounts suggest the area was traversed by the Pony Express. The nearby community of Meyers was a registered Pony Express station.Location The Albright Ranch is located in Somerset, El Dorado County, California. It sits just 20 minutes south of Placerville and 40 minutes north of Jackson off of Grizzly Flat Road. Sacramento and the Sacramento International Airport are approximately 1 hour away to the west. Lake Tahoe is a 1 hour 20 minute drive to the east.