Acres: 744.44
Description
Executive Summary – Sanctuary Ranch | Big Horn, Wyoming
Nestled against the majestic backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains, Sanctuary Ranch represents a rare and extraordinary opportunity to own a legacy property at the doorstep of over one million acres of pristine public land. This exceptional holding shares approximately 2.5 miles of boundary with the Bighorn National Forest on two sides, offering direct access to unparalleled recreational and wildlife experiences- both on and off the ranch.
Despite its vast seclusion, the ranch is just minutes from the charming and highly sought-after community of Big Horn, Wyoming, and only 20 minutes from the vibrant western town of Sheridan. Positioned in the heart of Wyoming’s polo and equestrian country, the property enjoys close proximity to the world-renowned Flying H Polo Club and Big Horn Equestrian Center.
Sanctuary Ranch is a true blank canvas — a clean slate with no structural improvements aside from a quality private road system and power infrastructure in place. Multiple stunning building sites offer expansive views and total privacy, ideal for creating a custom estate or family retreat. The ranch is unencumbered by conservation easements, providing a rare opportunity for future development or preservation per the new owner's vision.
Abundant water sources—including White, Hanna, Hill, and Jackson Creeks—along with numerous developed and natural springs, support a thriving ecosystem and create an ideal setting for wildlife. The ranch lies within a general elk and deer hunting area and is home to elk, moose, whitetail and mule deer, antelope, black bear, Merriam’s turkey, and upland birds.
With annual property taxes under $1,000, ownership is remarkably straightforward and cost-effective. Sanctuary Ranch is a true Wyoming treasure offering unmatched privacy, stunning natural beauty, and proximity to the best of Big Horn’s recreational and cultural amenities.
Wildlife & Hunting
Sanctuary Ranch offers an exceptional opportunity for the discerning sportsman, outdoor enthusiast, or conservation-minded landowner. Located within a general elk and deer hunt area, the ranch provides access to some of the most sought-after big game hunting in the region—without the need to draw limited tags.
Wildlife on the property is diverse and abundant, including:
- Elk (frequently seen on the property year-round)
- Moose
- Mule and Whitetail Deer
- Antelope
- Black Bear
- Merriam’s Turkey
- Upland Game Birds (including grouse and pheasant)
With direct border access to over 1 million acres of the Bighorn National Forest and additional proximity to hundreds of acres of State of Wyoming and BLM land, the ranch serves as a private gateway to an expansive wilderness corridor—ideal for extended hunts, horseback expeditions, or wildlife photography.
The property’s abundant water resources, including multiple creeks and natural springs. With thoughtful management, these waterways offer strong potential for fish habitat development, such as trout restoration or the creation of still water ponds—enhancing both the recreational value and ecological diversity of the ranch.
Whether your interest lies in hunting, wildlife viewing, habitat enhancement, or simply preserving a thriving natural ecosystem, Sanctuary Ranch offers a unique blend of opportunity, access, and potential in one of the most scenic corners of the American West.
Estate Planning & Land Use Development
Sanctuary Ranch offers an exceptional foundation for those looking to create a lasting legacy in the heart of Wyoming’s most coveted mountain landscape. With no conservation easements in place, the ranch provides full flexibility for future development, whether that means a private family estate, a series of thoughtfully placed cabins, or simply preserving the land for generations to come.
A 2-mile private road, newly constructed to a 30-foot width, winds through the property and provides easy access to the ranch’s most desirable building locations. Along this road, six strategically placed power transformer boxes are positioned near prime homesites, each offering sweeping views of the Bighorn Mountains and the surrounding valley.
Unique natural features enhance the property’s appeal, including private waterfalls along White Creek and Jackson Creek, creating ideal backdrops for serene homesites or gathering areas. A developed spring, once planned to supply water for future cabins, remains in place and could be reactivated to support new residential uses.
Whether your vision includes building an estate home, creating a private retreat, or planning a multi-generational compound, Sanctuary Ranch combines the essential infrastructure, natural beauty, and development freedom to bring that vision to life.
Agricultural Operations
Sanctuary Ranch combines natural beauty with strong agricultural potential, making it well-suited for livestock or low-impact grazing. A newly fenced pasture area is in place, offering secure and usable ground for cattle, horses, or other livestock.
The ranch features multiple brush-filled draws with year-round live water, providing natural cover and reliable hydration. These draws also support strong native grasses and create ideal conditions for seasonal or rotational grazing.
Situated along the eastern slope of the Bighorn Mountains, the ranch lies in a region celebrated for its nutrient-rich native grasses and ideal grazing conditions. The quality of forage found in this area supports excellent weight gain and conditioning for grass-fed livestock.
With abundant water, productive draws, and excellent forage, Sanctuary Ranch provides meaningful agricultural utility in a stunning and natural mountain setting.
About the Area: History of Big Horn, Wyoming
Tucked into the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, the town of Big Horn, Wyoming is one of the most historic and culturally significant communities in the American West. Founded in the early 1880s, Big Horn emerged during a time of westward expansion, when homesteaders, ranchers, and frontiersmen settled the rich grasslands of northern Wyoming. Drawn by abundant water, fertile soil, and access to the mountains, early settlers established cattle operations that quickly turned the area into a ranching stronghold.
Big Horn became a central gathering point for the surrounding ranching community. It boasted a general store, blacksmith, post office, schoolhouse, and hotel—all essential to daily life on the frontier. The town also served as a stage stop and shipping point for cattle and goods moving between the Bighorn Mountains and the railroad in Sheridan. Many of the region’s early families still have descendants living and ranching in the area today, preserving a legacy of hard work, stewardship, and deep respect for the land.
In the 20th century, Big Horn continued to thrive as a quiet but prestigious community. Its beauty and seclusion began to attract notable residents, including writers, artists, conservationists, and philanthropists who sought refuge in the shadow of the mountains.
The area’s rich equestrian tradition took on global significance with the founding of the Flying H Polo Club in the 1980s. Today, the club is internationally recognized and attracts top players from across the globe each summer. Just minutes from the center of town, the Big Horn Equestrian Center has become a vibrant venue for polo matches, community events, and seasonal festivals, drawing both locals and visitors to its iconic setting.
Today, Big Horn retains its unique blend of western authenticity, scenic grandeur, and cultural sophistication. Just 20 minutes from Sheridan, with immediate access to the Bighorn National Forest, it offers a lifestyle deeply rooted in tradition yet welcoming to those seeking the unmatched beauty and heritage of Wyoming’s mountain foothills.
Details
- Agent: Joe Steger
- Property Type: House
- List Price: 14,800,000
- Land and Ranch: Yes
Roger St. Clair
https://www.century21bhj.com/request-more-info-joe-steger