Ruidoso, NM 88316(Lincoln County)

- Approximately 3,461 deeded acres - 13,496 leased Forest Service acres - Trophy elk, mule deer, bear, & turkey - Has historically supported up to 300 pairs of cattle annually - Almost 60 acre-feet of water rights for irrigation - 5,836 square foot custom owner's home Includes guest house, hunting lodge, staff housing, shop, barn, hay barn, and outbuildings Reaching in excess of 10,000 feet, the Capitan Mountains have long been a cool refuge rising above the plains of southern New Mexico. With a vertical relief of 6000 feet, the Capitan Mountains create some of the most ecologically diverse habitat in the West, from the Chihuahuan desert lowlands to subalpine forest highlands. Spectacular Ponderosa Springs Ranch, just 40 minutes from Ruidoso, captures the best of this diversity as one of the finest cattle and big game ranches in southern New Mexico. With approximately 3,461 deeded acres and 13,496 leased Forest Service acres, Ponderosa Springs Ranch is one of the largest and best-watered ranches in this part of the state. Elevations on the ranch range from 6000 to 8000 feet, the ideal zone for growing elk of exceptional size. With ample cover in pinon/juniper and ponderosa pine forest on the ranch and proximity to the expansive Lincoln National Forest, elk hunting on the ranch is second to none. Mule deer, turkey and antelope are also hunted on the ranch as well as the predator species of mountain lion, bobcat, coyote and black bear. Upland bird species include grouse, doves and quail. Ponderosa Springs Ranch is bordered by Lincoln National Forest for several miles which opens up private access to many other year-round recreational opportunities, including hiking, backpacking, mountain biking and four-wheeling. The ranch is fully fenced and cross-fenced, and has historically supported up to 300 pairs of cattle annually. In addition to almost 60 acre-feet of water rights for irrigation, numerous springs, ponds, drinkers, wells and miles of pipeline keep the animals well-watered. High country grazing for the ranch's cattle is available year-round for 312 head on the adjacent forest service grazing permit. Improvements on the ranch are well-built and well-maintained, and include a 5,836 square foot custom owner's home, guest house, hunting lodge, staff housing, shop, barn, hay barn, and outbuildings. Proximity to outside recreational opportunities is one of Ponderosa Springs Ranch's finest assets. Only a 40 minute drive away is the resort community of Ruidoso, with its downhill ski area, racetrack and casinos. Only a 20 minute drive from the ranch is Sierra Blanca Regional Airport. History buffs will enjoy visiting the nearby hideouts of Billy the Kid, the site of Smokey the Bear's rescue and the Mescalero Apache Reservation. For a more urban experience, the bustling city of Roswell lies about an hour to the east. With its solid cattle operation, significant acreage, rich history and diversity of game animals, Ponderosa Springs Ranch stands apart as one of the last great New Mexico ranches and presents a rare opportunity for the discerning buyer. We encourage you to contact Harrigan Land Company for more information or a personal visit to this memorable piece of the Land of Enchantment.