Gates Ranch

Lying in the heart of the great expanse of the Derby Mesa ranches in northwestern Eagle County is the 740-acre Gates Ranch. Its sweeping expanses can be seen from miles away along the Colorado River Road. Its pastures serve as home to more than 200 head of cattle and its woodlands and 3-acre lake shelter a wide variety of wildlife.

The ranch, originally homesteaded by James P. Gates in 1893, is one of the last reminders of a way-of-life that is an integral part of Eagle County’s history. The current owners, now the fifth generation of Gates to call this land “home”, want to preserve this heritage. While the land could someday be considered prime real estate for development, the Gates family has decided to ensure that the property will always be ranchland, protected as such with a conservation easement. The easement will protect the conservation values of the land, yet enable the Gates to continue their family’s ranching tradition and encourage their good stewardship of the land, which is truly a family treasure.

The Gates Ranch conservation project would not have been possible without EVLT’s major funding partner, Eagle County Open Space, and numerous private donors.

Things to do here:

Historical/agriculture heritage, wildlife, scenic vistas

Species you may see:

Elk

Bobcat

Black Bear

Bald Eagle

Fox

Mountain Lion

Mule Deer

Photo Gallery

Conservation Easement Signed:
2007

Sustaining Council Level Underwriter:
Lola Higbie

Lands Protected:
740 acres

Conservation Values:
Scenic open space, ranching heritage, wildlife habitat, and waterways and riparian areas

Public Access:
Not Permitted – Private

Owner:
Kip and Leslie Gates

Click here to get an interactive look at our conserved land portfolio.