Horsefly Ranch in Montrose, Colorado for Sale
Nestled at the base of Wildcat Canyon, just 7.4 miles south of Montrose, Colorado, Horsefly Ranch spans an impressive 280± acres, offering a rare blend of irrigated farmland, natural landscapes, and direct public land access. This historic ranch features 81.4± irrigated acres, utilizing senior water rights from the Al Brush Ditch, which has been in continuous use since at least 1891. Fed by Horsefly Creek, the property also boasts 4,300 feet of direct creek frontage, an on-property irrigation pond, and a large pond on the southern portion of the property, fed by Al Brush irrigation water.
Property Highlights
- Total Acreage: 280± acres of diverse terrain, including irrigated fields, rolling piñon-juniper draws, and mature cottonwood trees.
- Irrigated Land: 81.4± flood-irrigated acres, benefiting from historic water rights from the Al Brush Ditch and Horsefly Creek.
- Water Features: 4,300 feet of creek frontage, two ponds (including a large, southern pond fed by irrigation water), and an additional irrigation pond for water storage.
- Ranching Infrastructure: Cattle corrals and a high-fenced stack yard, providing essential facilities for livestock operations.
- Public Land Access: Borders 2,320 acres of public land, offering direct access to hunting, horseback riding, and recreation.
- Scenic Views: Strong southern-facing views provide stunning panoramas of the Montrose Valley.
- Primary Residence: 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, 1,392 sq. ft., built in 1970—offering comfortable living with room for updates or expansion.
- Additional Structures: Multiple outbuildings provide storage, workshop space, and agricultural infrastructure.
- Prime Location: Only 10 minutes from Montrose, with easy access to Telluride’s world-class skiing and year-round outdoor recreation.
Agriculture & Water Rights
Horsefly Ranch is a productive agricultural property with rich, irrigated soil ideal for hay production, livestock grazing, or crop cultivation. The Al Brush Ditch water rights ensure a consistent and reliable irrigation source, while Horsefly Creek frontage offers an additional natural water resource. The ranch also includes a large, high-fenced stack yard for hay and feed storage, supporting efficient ranch operations.
The property’s large pond on the southern portion of the ranch, fed by Al Brush irrigation water, serves as an excellent year-round water source for livestock and wildlife, further enhancing the ranch’s versatility.
Outdoor & Recreational Paradise
One of Horsefly Ranch’s greatest assets is its direct adjacency to 2,320 acres of public land, providing unparalleled access to hunting, hiking, horseback riding, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for a private retreat, a working ranch, or a sportsman’s paradise, Horsefly Ranch delivers.
Unmatched Western Colorado Lifestyle
Real estate is all about “location, location, location”, and Horsefly Ranch has it all—a private and serene setting with unmatched accessibility. Just minutes from Montrose’s conveniences, yet worlds away in terms of privacy and natural beauty, this ranch offers the perfect balance of agriculture, recreation, and investment potential.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a historic Western Colorado ranch with irrigated land, strong water rights, and direct public land access. Call today for more information or to schedule a private tour!
