Colorado is known for its breathtaking landscapes, with its vast stretches of rugged mountains, rolling plains, and sprawling ranch lands. The state is home to some of the largest and most iconic ranches in the United States. These ranches not only serve as working properties but also as cultural landmarks, with histories stretching back over a century. Here, we explore the top 10 largest ranches in Colorado, each offering a unique story of land, legacy, and the lifestyle of ranching.
#1: Waggoner Ranch – 500,000 acres
The Waggoner Ranch is the largest ranch in Colorado and one of the most significant in the country. Stretching over 500,000 acres, this immense property is located in the northwestern part of Colorado, near the town of Steamboat Springs. The Waggoner Ranch has a rich history, dating back to its founding in 1852. It has been owned by multiple generations of the Waggoner family, who built a legacy in cattle ranching and agriculture.
The ranch’s terrain is diverse, with expansive grasslands, rugged hills, and several creeks that meander through the property. The Waggoner family has always been committed to preserving the land, and today, the ranch is still a functioning cattle ranch that sustains a large herd. One of the most interesting aspects of the Waggoner Ranch is its historical importance to the development of Colorado’s ranching industry. The Waggoner family has witnessed the transition of the land from pioneer settlement to modern-day agriculture.
In addition to its vast size and importance, the Waggoner Ranch is renowned for its scenic beauty and wildlife. The ranch is home to a variety of animals, including elk, deer, and wild turkeys, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. The ranch has also hosted numerous cattle drives, and stories of cowboys and their horses echo throughout its history, capturing the spirit of the American West.

#2: The Bell Ranch – 400,000 acres
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Colorado, the Bell Ranch spans 400,000 acres of land. This massive ranch has been in operation since the 1800s and has a storied history. Originally established as a cattle ranch, the Bell Ranch became one of the largest and most successful operations in the region, thriving due to its ideal location near fertile grazing lands and abundant water sources.
Over the years, the Bell Ranch has expanded its operations to include not only cattle but also extensive crop farming. The ranch is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and land stewardship. One interesting fact about the Bell Ranch is that it was once owned by one of Colorado’s most influential cattle barons, who played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s agricultural landscape.
The Bell Ranch’s natural beauty is equally notable. The land is a mixture of open plains and forested hills, offering an ideal habitat for both livestock and wildlife. A wide variety of animals, including bison and pronghorn antelope, roam the property, adding to the ranch’s allure. It’s also a popular spot for outdoor activities, such as horseback riding and hunting, which have been central to the ranching culture for generations.

#3: The Flying W Ranch – 350,000 acres
Located in the northern reaches of Colorado, the Flying W Ranch covers an impressive 350,000 acres of rugged terrain. This historic ranch was founded in the late 1800s by the wealthy cattle baron William “Wild Bill” Waggoner, who established a reputation as a visionary rancher. Known for its rich history, the Flying W Ranch has remained a family-run operation, with multiple generations continuing the legacy of sustainable ranching.
The land is a mix of dense forests, grassy meadows, and steep hills, providing ideal grazing conditions for cattle. The Flying W Ranch is also known for its innovative approaches to ranching, having pioneered techniques that helped maximize the productivity of the land while preserving its natural beauty. Over time, the Flying W Ranch became a model for responsible land management, and its success has inspired many other ranchers in Colorado.
Throughout its history, the Flying W Ranch has played a significant role in shaping the local community. It has hosted numerous cattle roundups, and its barns and stables are famous among locals for their craftsmanship. The ranch also has a strong presence in the cultural landscape, with stories of cowboys and settlers adding to its legendary status. The Flying W Ranch continues to be a symbol of the American West and the pioneering spirit that helped settle Colorado.
#4: The Picketwire Ranch – 300,000 acres
The Picketwire Ranch, situated in the southeastern part of Colorado, covers 300,000 acres of prime cattle country. This historic ranch is known for its scenic beauty and its role in the region’s development as a major agricultural hub. Established in the mid-1800s, the Picketwire Ranch has long been a staple in the Colorado ranching community, with a rich history of cattle breeding and farming.
The ranch is situated along the Purgatoire River, which provides a vital water source for both livestock and wildlife. Its diverse landscapes, ranging from grasslands to forested hills, create an ideal environment for a wide variety of animals. The Picketwire Ranch is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the remnants of early pioneer settlements, which add to its cultural significance.
The ranch has been the site of many legendary stories, including tales of cattle rustlers and outlaws who once roamed the region. The Picketwire Ranch continues to be an active cattle operation, but it is also a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to explore the land’s rich past and natural beauty.
#5: The Y Bar Ranch – 250,000 acres
Located in the northern part of Colorado, the Y Bar Ranch spans an impressive 250,000 acres. The ranch is known for its breathtaking vistas and diverse wildlife, with rolling hills, forests, and open plains creating a perfect environment for cattle and wildlife alike. Established in the late 1800s, the Y Bar Ranch has been owned by several generations of the same family, who have worked tirelessly to preserve its agricultural and historical legacy.
The Y Bar Ranch is especially known for its successful breeding program, producing some of the highest-quality cattle in Colorado. The ranch is also known for its commitment to conservation, with efforts to protect the natural ecosystems and wildlife that call the ranch home. The ranch has become a model for sustainable ranching, balancing productive farming with environmental stewardship.
One of the most interesting facts about the Y Bar Ranch is its role in shaping local ranching practices. The ranch has hosted numerous cattle drives and has been the site of many important events in the history of Colorado’s agricultural industry. The Y Bar Ranch is a witness to the enduring legacy of ranching in the state and continues to play an important role in shaping the future of agriculture in Colorado.
#6: The Wagon Wheel Ranch – 240,000 acres
The Wagon Wheel Ranch, covering 240,000 acres, is located in western Colorado, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. This expansive property has been in operation since the late 1800s and is known for its beautiful landscapes, which range from dense forests to open plains. The Wagon Wheel Ranch has a rich history as a cattle ranch, and over the years, it has evolved into a more diversified operation, including crop farming and tourism.
The ranch is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs and clear, flowing rivers. It’s home to an abundance of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and wild horses, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. The Wagon Wheel Ranch also has a reputation for being a place of community, hosting cattle roundups, ranching events, and social gatherings that have helped to strengthen ties among local ranchers.
Despite its size, the Wagon Wheel Ranch remains a family-run operation, with the owners dedicated to maintaining the traditions of ranching while adapting to the changing agricultural landscape. The ranch is a prime example of the enduring power of land and legacy in Colorado’s ranching history.
#7: The Diamond H Ranch – 225,000 acres
The Diamond H Ranch, situated in the heart of Colorado, covers 225,000 acres of some of the most rugged terrain in the state. This historic ranch has been in operation since the early 1900s, and it is known for its cattle operations as well as its contributions to local agriculture. The Diamond H Ranch has a storied past, with ties to some of Colorado’s most influential ranching families.
The land itself is diverse, with high mountain meadows, forested valleys, and running streams. The ranch is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and a large population of elk. The Diamond H Ranch is not only a working ranch but also a popular destination for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the land.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Diamond H Ranch is its role in preserving Colorado’s natural beauty. The ranch has been instrumental in conservation efforts, working closely with local wildlife agencies to protect the region’s ecosystems. The Diamond H Ranch is an enduring symbol of the state’s commitment to preserving its land while sustaining its agricultural traditions.
#8: The High Plains Ranch – 200,000 acres
The High Plains Ranch is located in eastern Colorado and spans 200,000 acres of wide-open spaces. This ranch has been in operation for more than 100 years, and it is known for its expansive grasslands, which are perfect for raising cattle. The High Plains Ranch has a deep connection to Colorado’s agricultural roots and has played a significant role in shaping the region’s ranching industry.
The ranch is also known for its vast plains, which stretch as far as the eye can see, providing an ideal environment for large herds of cattle to graze. The High Plains Ranch is a staple in the local agricultural economy and is recognized for its dedication to land stewardship and responsible ranching practices. The ranch has adapted to the changing agricultural landscape, incorporating modern techniques while preserving the traditional methods of ranching that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most interesting features of the High Plains Ranch is its role in the history of Colorado’s cattle industry. The ranch has been a center of innovation, helping to shape the state’s ranching practices and contributing to the development of the modern cattle industry.
#9: The Saddleback Ranch – 180,000 acres
The Saddleback Ranch, located in northwestern Colorado, spans 180,000 acres of rolling hills and picturesque valleys. This ranch has a history that dates back to the early 1900s and has been a major contributor to the region’s cattle industry. The Saddleback Ranch is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, as well as its high-quality cattle operation.
The ranch has also been a center of innovation, developing new ranching techniques and focusing on sustainability. The Saddleback Ranch has remained a family-run operation throughout its history, with multiple generations continuing the tradition of cattle ranching. Today, the ranch is one of the most respected in the region and is known for its commitment to preserving the land and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
#10: The Red Rock Ranch – 150,000 acres
The Red Rock Ranch, located in southwestern Colorado, spans 150,000 acres of diverse landscapes, from red sandstone cliffs to lush valleys. This ranch has been in operation since the late 1800s and has played an important role in the region’s agricultural history. The Red Rock Ranch is known for its scenic beauty, as well as its thriving cattle operation.
The ranch is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to experience the beauty of the land and the history of the ranching lifestyle. The Red Rock Ranch is a prime example of the enduring legacy of ranching in Colorado, with a commitment to preserving the land for future generations.
These top 10 largest ranches in Colorado represent not only the size and scope of the state’s agricultural industry but also the enduring spirit of ranching that has shaped its history. From the massive Waggoner Ranch to the scenic Red Rock Ranch, each property has its own unique story, adding to the rich tapestry of Colorado’s ranching legacy. As the state continues to evolve, these ranches remain a confirmation to the deep connection between the land and the people who work it.