Rist Canyon Ranch

Rist Canyon Ranch is a rare combination of beauty, productivity, and proximity. Whether you're managing hay production, riding trails through National Forest, or simply unwinding beside the pond, this property offers a lifestyle rooted in nature and functionality—without sacrificing convenience. Ranches of this size, quality, and location seldom come to market. Land Just 20 minutes west of downtown Fort Collins, Rist Canyon Ranch offers an exceptional blend of ranch functionality on 563 acres of prime mountain ground. A charming 1,834 sq. ft., 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, the property also includes a large shop, and well-equipped horse facilities. Towering stands of healthy forest—featuring Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, spruce, and aspen—surround the open meadows, creating a stunning setting that borders National Forest on two sides. With abundant water, wildlife, and improvements already in place, this property provides all the essentials of a working ranch, combined with the tranquility of a private mountain retreat.

At the heart of the property are expansive irrigated hay meadows, nourished by a network of seven adjudicated springs and a year-round stream. Surrounding the meadows is one of the most impressive forest stands on the Front Range—a vibrant mosaic of old-growth and new-growth timber with a thriving understory of wildflowers, native grasses, and forbs. Wildlife is abundant, including elk, mule deer, moose, bear, and turkey, offering outstanding hunting opportunities. A large spring-fed pond, stocked with trout.

The comfortable main home features a wood-burning stove and an inviting deck where you can relax and take in panoramic views of the property and its prolific wildlife. Additional ranch improvements include a large shop, horse runs, and indoor pens—well suited for livestock, toys or equestrian operations.

Located just 20 minutes from the ranch, Fort Collins is consistently ranked among the top places to live in the U.S. Known for its vibrant downtown, strong sense of community, and access to outdoor recreation, the city offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. With its proximity to town yet peaceful seclusion, the ranch could serve as a comfortable year-round residence or a perfect family retreat to escape and enjoy the outdoors. Ranches of this size, quality, and location seldom come to market.