10 Acres of Pure Mountain Life
Forbes Rd : Fort Garland, CO 81133
Costilla County, Colorado
Lot Description
Own over 10 acres of Colorado mountain land in the Sangre De Cristo Ranches. This property sits on a hillside with tall evergreens, pockets of open space, and good road access during accessible seasons. You'll find peace, quiet, and enough room to build, camp, or just get away.
This is a hill-side property with moderate to steep slopes that give way to wide views of the surrounding forest and sky. At the base of the land, Rito Seco Creek runs near the road, adding sound and movement to the landscape. Step outside and you're in the middle of southern Colorado's high country. Hunt, hike, or just enjoy the quiet-this is the kind of land where you can build something real, on your terms.
PREMIUM High-Elevation Location: This property sits in the rare heights of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains with mature, towering evergreens that command higher per-acre values than lower elevation properties. The seasonal winter snow creates a true wilderness sanctuary accessible from late spring through early fall - perfect for serious hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic mountain retreat where crowds can never reach. This is where the trophy elk roam and the serious mountain adventurers stake their claim.
The surrounding area is made for the outdoors. Hunt, hike, ride-whatever you like to do in the mountains, you can do it here during the prime outdoor seasons. With minimal restrictions and the exclusivity that comes with high-altitude terrain, it's the perfect base for anyone who wants the real mountain experience that only the heights can provide.
We are open to owner financing as well - here is what that would look like:
- Total Money Down: $599 ($349 downpayment + $250 closing cost)
- Monthly: $499/Month for 96 months
See Info below.
- Subdivision: Sangre De Cristo Ranches
- State: Co
- County: Costilla
- Zip: 81133
- Size: 10.121 Acres
- Parcel: 70218720
- Legal Description: S.D.C.R. Unit E-3 BLK 292 Lot 6645 Cont. 10.121 Ac
- Approximate Lat/Long Coordinates:
37.2706, -105.2568 N
37.2701, 105.2564 N2
37.2686, -105.2542 Se
37.2687, -105.2586 Sw
- Annual Taxes: Approximately $362.36/Year
- Zoning: Estate Residential
--- For a site built home, you need a 600sqft minimum footprint.
--- Mobile homes are Allowed.
--- You can camp for 14 days (every 3 months)
--- Temporary RV Occupancy permit available for up to 180 days if a well has been permitted or cistern installed and a septic or onsite waste management system has been installed ($250 fee - good for 60 days at a time while building, renewable).
--- Zoning office is open Monday through Thursday and can be contacted at to answer any questions.
Estate Residential
- Hoa/Poa: Yes. Optional - dues are $25/Month. Minimal Covenants/Restrictions
- Improvements: None
- Access: Forbes Rd / Phillips Rd
- Water: Would be by well or holding tank
- Sewer: Would be by septic
- Utilities: Would be by alternative
Information presented in this listing is deemed accurate but is not guaranteed. Buyers are advised to conduct their own due diligence and verify all details independently.
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Location And Setting Overview
- Mountain Paradise in the Sangre De Cristo Range: Your 10.121-Acre sanctuary sits nestled in the forested foothills of the legendary Sangre de Cristo Mountains at approximately 11,200 feet elevation. This pristine hillside property offers the perfect combination of towering evergreens, open meadow clearings, and natural topographic features that create multiple building sites with commanding views across the San Luis Valley. The property's moderate to steep slopes provide natural privacy and wind protection while offering dramatic elevation changes that showcase the stunning mountain landscape stretching endlessly toward the western horizon.
- Strategic Location in Colorado's Hidden Gem: Located just 25 miles northeast of the historic town of San Luis and 18 miles southeast of Fort Garland, your property positions you perfectly to enjoy both solitude and convenience. The Sangre De Cristo Ranches subdivision encompasses thousands of acres of carefully planned mountain living, where large lots and minimal restrictions preserve the authentic Colorado mountain experience. Fort Garland (18 miles northwest) provides essential services including groceries, fuel, and the historic Fort Garland Museum, while maintaining easy highway access via US 160 to the broader San Luis Valley region.
- The San Luis Valley Advantage: Your property commands elevated views across the massive San Luis Valley, an 8,000-Square-Mile high-altitude basin surrounded by towering 14,000-Foot peaks. This is North America's largest alpine valley, stretching 122 miles long and 74 miles wide, creating one of the most spectacular mountain settings imaginable. From your hillside vantage point, you'll enjoy unobstructed views westward toward the Rio Grande River corridor and the distant San Juan Mountains, while the imposing Sangre de Cristo peaks rise dramatically to the east and south, creating a natural amphitheater of mountain grandeur.
- Rito Seco Creek Enhancement: The property benefits from seasonal Rito Seco Creek flowing near the base along the road access, providing both the soothing sounds of running water and potential water source development opportunities. This natural creek drainage adds significant value to the land by supporting diverse wildlife habitat, natural vegetation, and creating cooler microclimates during summer months. The creek's presence also indicates good subsurface water potential for future well development, while providing natural fire protection and supporting the property's diverse ecosystem of native plants and animals.
- High-Country Forest Environment: The elevation and forest setting create an ideal four-season mountain climate with cool summers, snowy winters, and spectacular fall colors. Your evergreen forest includes mature ponderosa pines, Douglas fir, and scattered aspen groves that turn brilliant gold each autumn. The mixed forest provides natural windbreaks, privacy screening, and excellent wildlife habitat while allowing selective clearing for building sites, gardens, or recreational areas. The forest floor supports native grasses and wildflowers that bloom throughout the growing season, creating natural landscaping that requires no maintenance while supporting local wildlife populations.
- Access and Infrastructure: Forbes Road and Phillips Road provide access to your property, with the seasonal winter snow conditions adding to the exclusivity and pristine character that makes these high-elevation properties command premium prices. This rare location in the heights of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offers the mature forest cover and untouched wilderness experience that serious hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seek - where trophy elk roam undisturbed and crowds never reach. During the prime outdoor seasons from late spring through early fall, the road system connects directly to State Highway 159, providing regional access while maintaining the elevated mountain character that makes this location so coveted by those who understand true mountain value. Electric and telephone service lines run along the road corridors, making grid connection possible if desired, though most residents prefer the independence and sustainability of off-grid solar systems that perform exceptionally well at this elevation and solar exposure.
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Recreational Opportunities
- Four-Season Outdoor Paradise: Your property serves as headquarters for unlimited recreational opportunities in one of Colorado's most diverse outdoor playgrounds. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains rising directly to your east contain multiple 14,000-Foot peaks within an hour's drive, while the broad San Luis Valley floor spreads westward offering everything from fishing to ATV riding. Summer brings hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping weather with comfortable temperatures rarely exceeding 80 degrees. Fall transforms the landscape into a photographer's dream with golden aspens and crisp hunting weather.
- World-Class Fishing Within Minutes: The Rio Grande River system, located just 12 miles west of your property, offers some of Colorado's finest trout fishing with public access points, boat launches, and regularly stocked rainbow and brown trout populations. Mountain Home Reservoir (35 miles northwest) provides trophy fishing opportunities in 19,500 acre-feet of pristine mountain water, with fish regularly exceeding 20 inches. Costilla Creek supports native Rio Grande cutthroat trout populations and offers traditional fly fishing in a spectacular mountain setting.
- Hunting Excellence in GMU 83: Your property sits in Game Management Unit 83, renowned throughout Colorado for exceptional elk and deer hunting with success rates consistently above state averages. The massive Trinchera elk herd, one of Colorado's largest with over 15,000 animals, migrates through this area each spring and fall, providing incredible wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities right from your property. The property's elevated position and natural clearings make it ideal for spotting game movement across the valley while providing excellent access to surrounding public hunting lands.
- Great Sand Dunes and Wilderness Access: Just 45 minutes northeast lies Great Sand Dunes National Park, featuring North America's tallest sand dunes rising 750 feet above the valley floor. The pristine 220,000-Acre Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area offers unlimited backcountry adventures with over 50 alpine lakes, 100+ miles of maintained trails, and access to six different 14,000-Foot peaks. The Continental Divide Trail passes through this wilderness, connecting your property to the famous 3,100-Mile trail system.
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Wildlife And Hunting
- Elk Hunting Capital of Colorado: Your property sits in the heart of GMU 83, home to the legendary Trinchera elk herd-one of the largest elk populations in North America with over 15,000 animals. These massive herds create spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, with groups of 200-300 elk commonly observed grazing in valley meadows during dawn and dusk periods. Trophy-class bulls with 350+ inch antlers are taken annually from this unit, while the area's healthy cow-to-bull ratios ensure sustainable hunting for generations to come.
- World-Class Mule Deer and Predator Populations: The diverse habitat surrounding your property supports exceptional mule deer populations, with mature bucks reaching trophy proportions in the area's remote canyons. The dense forest cover supports healthy populations of black bears and mountain lions, adding authenticity to the mountain living experience. The area's abundant prey base supports coyotes, foxes, and bobcats that respond well to predator calling techniques.
- Bird Hunting and Small Game Paradise: The property's diverse habitat zones support exceptional populations of blue grouse, wild turkeys, and mourning doves that provide excellent hunting opportunities throughout multiple seasons. Wild turkeys roam the oak brush and pine forests in large flocks, while dove hunting along water sources offers fast-paced shooting action. Cottontail rabbits thrive in the brush habitats, providing excellent small game hunting opportunities.
- Wildlife Photography and Hunting Lease Potential: The combination of diverse wildlife species, spectacular mountain backdrops, and changing seasonal conditions creates world-class wildlife photography opportunities. The property's size and excellent wildlife habitat create opportunities for generating income through hunting guide services or seasonal hunting leases to out-of-state hunters seeking authentic Colorado mountain hunting experiences.
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Historical Significance
- Where Colorado Began: Your property sits in the heart of Costilla County, proudly known as "Where Colorado Began" because this area witnessed the first permanent European settlement in what would become Colorado. The rich history surrounding your land dates back over 470 years to 1540, when Spanish explorer Coronado led expeditions through the Southwest in search of the legendary Seven Cities of Gold. While Coronado's party likely only skirted the edges of present-day Colorado, Spanish influence took deep root in this region long before American settlement, creating a unique cultural heritage that continues to this day.
- Spanish Colonial Land Grant Legacy: The Sangre de Cristo Land Grant, established in 1843 under Mexican rule, encompassed much of the area surrounding your property and represents one of the largest and most significant land grants in Colorado history. This massive grant, originally covering over 1 million acres, was awarded to Charles Beaubien and Guadalupe Miranda and later sold to William Gilpin, who became Colorado's first territorial governor. The land grant system allowed settlers to establish communities, farm, ranch, and use common lands for grazing and timber harvesting-rights that are still honored today in some areas, connecting your property to centuries of continuous land use tradition.
- Native American Sacred Territory: Long before Spanish or Anglo settlers arrived, the San Luis Valley served as sacred hunting and ceremonial grounds for multiple Native American tribes, most prominently the Ute people who considered these mountains their spiritual home. Archaeological evidence indicates continuous human habitation in the valley for over 10,000 years, with ancient petroglyphs, arrowheads, and primitive tools regularly discovered throughout the region. Blanca Peak, visible from your property, holds special significance as Sisnaajini, one of the four sacred mountains marking the boundaries of traditional Navajo lands, while the Ute people established seasonal camps throughout these foothills, following game migrations and utilizing natural resources with sophisticated land management practices.
- Colorado's Oldest Continuously Inhabited Town: Just 25 miles southwest of your property lies San Luis, established in 1851 and recognized as Colorado's oldest continuously inhabited town. Founded by Hispanic settlers from Taos, New Mexico, under the auspices of the Sangre de Cristo Land Grant, San Luis was laid out in classic Spanish Colonial style with a central plaza and radiating streets that remain intact today. The town's founding predates Colorado statehood by 25 years and represents the successful adaptation of centuries-old settlement patterns to the challenging high-altitude environment, proving that determined families could thrive in this spectacular but demanding landscape.
- Fort Garland Military Heritage: The historic Fort Garland, established in 1858 just 18 miles from your property, served as a crucial U.S. Army outpost protecting settlers and maintaining peace with Native American tribes during Colorado's territorial period. The fort's most famous commander was legendary frontiersman Kit Carson, who served from 1866 to 1867 and worked to establish peaceful coexistence between settlers and the Ute tribes who had hunted these mountains for generations. Today, Fort Garland operates as a museum where visitors can tour original adobe barracks, officers' quarters, and view artifacts from the frontier era, including exhibits honoring the Buffalo Soldiers-African American cavalry troops who served with distinction on the Colorado frontier.
- Mining Boom Heritage: The mountains surrounding your property witnessed Colorado's mining boom era, with prospectors establishing numerous claims throughout the Sangre de Cristo range in search of gold, silver, and copper deposits. While Costilla County never experienced the massive booms of places like Cripple Creek or Leadville, dozens of mines operated in the area, including the Star of the West Mine, John Moore Claims, and Lucky Claims, their colorful names reflecting miners' eternal optimism. Ghost towns and abandoned mining camps dot the high country, with foundations, tailings piles, and equipment remnants serving as fascinating reminders of Colorado's frontier mining heritage that property owners can explore and enjoy.
- Railroad Development Legacy: The arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad in the late 1870S transformed the San Luis Valley from an isolated frontier region into a connected part of Colorado's growing economy. The narrow-gauge tracks crossed La Veta Pass and extended across the valley floor, with Fort Garland serving as an important rail stop connecting Pueblo to Alamosa and the rich mining districts of the San Juan Mountains. While the original narrow-gauge tracks have been upgraded or removed, old railroad grades provide excellent hiking and ATV trails, while restored depot buildings in nearby towns serve as museums and community centers celebrating the iron horse era that opened the valley to development.
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Building And Development Options
- Maximum Building Flexibility with Minimal Restrictions: The Sangre De Cristo Ranches covenants provide exceptional building freedom while maintaining property values through reasonable standards. Your 10.121-Acre parcel allows construction of a primary residence with minimum 600 square feet for a one-story structure or 800 square feet for a two-story home. The covenants specifically allow manufactured homes built in 1976 or newer, making quality manufactured housing an affordable option for establishing your mountain residence quickly.
- Strategic Building Sites and Infrastructure: The property's varied topography creates multiple excellent building sites offering different advantages and views. Level areas near road access provide easy construction sites with minimal grading, while elevated positions offer commanding valley views. The presence of Rito Seco Creek indicates good potential for well development, with average well depths ranging from 150-300 feet. The property's well-drained soils provide excellent conditions for conventional septic system installation.
- Alternative Energy Excellence and Multi-Structure Development: The property's elevation, southern exposure, and minimal tree cover create ideal conditions for solar power systems that provide complete energy independence. The covenants allow appropriate ancillary buildings including garages, workshops, barns, and storage structures, enabling development of complete homestead compounds. Estate Residential zoning allows home-based businesses and agricultural activities, providing opportunities for generating income from your mountain property.
- RV and Camping Provisions: Costilla County allows short-term camping for 14 days every three months without permits, perfect for weekend getaways. Temporary RV occupancy permits allow up to 180 days annually for property owners with approved water and waste management systems, making it possible to live on your land during accessible months while building your seasonal residence.
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Climate And Terrain
- Perfect Four-Season Mountain Climate: At approximately 11,200 feet elevation, your property enjoys an ideal high-altitude climate that maximizes outdoor recreation opportunities while providing comfortable living conditions year-round. Summer temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees during the day, with cool nights dropping into the 40s and 50s that provide perfect sleeping weather without air conditioning. The low humidity and frequent afternoon breezes create comfortable conditions even on the warmest days, while the high elevation means no muggy, oppressive heat that plagues lower elevation areas throughout the summer months.
- Exceptional Winter Conditions: Winter transforms your property into a pristine snow-covered sanctuary with average daytime temperatures in the 30s and nighttime lows typically ranging from single digits to the low 20s. The substantial snowfall at this premium high-elevation location creates the untouched wilderness conditions that make these heights so valuable - ensuring complete solitude and preserving the mature forest ecosystem that supports trophy wildlife populations. This seasonal transformation into a winter wilderness sanctuary is exactly why these elevated properties command higher per-acre values than accessible lower elevation lots, offering true mountain authenticity that serious outdoorsmen understand and appreciate. The abundant sunshine, even during winter months, creates spectacular snow-covered vistas from south-facing slopes, while the elevation and pristine conditions make this the kind of exclusive mountain retreat that becomes more valuable each year.
- Superior Soil Conditions for Building: The property's soil composition consists primarily of well-drained sandy loam with excellent stability for construction projects and superior drainage characteristics that prevent water problems common with clay soils. The moderate slopes of 3-9 percent provide ideal building gradients that require minimal grading while ensuring proper drainage away from structures. The stable geological foundation, part of the ancient Valley Fill formation, provides excellent support for any size structure while eliminating concerns about unstable soils or shifting that can cause foundation problems in other areas.
- Natural Drainage and Flood Protection: The property's elevated hillside position and well-drained soils eliminate flood risks while providing natural drainage that handles heavy precipitation without creating standing water or erosion problems. The seasonal Rito Seco Creek follows natural drainage patterns that have been established over thousands of years, indicating stable water flow that doesn't threaten building sites or access roads. The property's topography naturally channels precipitation toward established drainage areas while keeping potential building sites high and dry throughout all weather conditions.
- Ideal Solar and Wind Resources: The property's elevation, latitude, and minimal atmospheric interference create exceptional solar energy potential with over 300 days of sunshine annually and high-altitude solar intensity that increases photovoltaic efficiency. The natural clearings and varied topography provide multiple options for solar panel placement with optimal southern exposure and minimal shading from surrounding trees. Consistent mountain breezes, especially during afternoon hours, provide supplemental wind energy potential that can complement solar systems during periods of reduced sunlight, creating opportunities for complete energy independence.
- Diverse Microclimates and Growing Conditions: The property's varied elevation and forest cover create multiple microclimates that support different types of vegetation and provide options for gardening and landscaping activities. Protected areas near the creek drainage remain cooler and moister, supporting different plant communities than the drier, more exposed higher elevations. These diverse conditions allow property owners to establish gardens, food plots, or landscaped areas suited to specific growing requirements while taking advantage of the natural variety present on the land.
- Natural Fire Protection and Management: The mixed forest composition and creek drainage provide natural fire breaks and higher moisture content that reduce wildfire risks compared to areas with dense, single-species forest stands. The property's varied topography creates natural fire barriers while the seasonal creek provides water sources for fire suppression if needed. The manageable forest density allows for selective clearing around building sites to create defensible space while maintaining the natural forest character that makes the property so attractive and valuable.
- Weather Patterns and Seasonal Changes: The property experiences the classic high-altitude mountain weather pattern with afternoon thunderstorms during summer months that provide natural irrigation while creating spectacular lightning displays over the surrounding peaks. Fall brings crisp, clear weather with minimal precipitation and comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and hunting seasons. Spring weather can be variable with late-season snow storms followed by rapid melting and the emergence of wildflowers and new growth throughout the forest ecosystem.
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Off-Grid Living Potential
- Complete Energy Independence Through Solar Power: Your property's high elevation and southern exposure create ideal conditions for solar power systems that can provide 100% energy independence while eliminating monthly utility bills forever. At 11,200 feet elevation, solar panels operate at peak efficiency due to the thin atmosphere and intense mountain sunlight, while the area's 300+ annual sunshine days provide consistent power generation throughout the year. Modern lithium battery systems store excess power for nighttime use and cloudy periods, while backup generator systems ensure power availability during extended winter storm periods. The property's multiple building sites offer flexibility in solar panel placement with optimal angles and minimal tree shading.
- Reliable Water Sources and Development: The presence of Rito Seco Creek and the property's location in a known groundwater area provide excellent potential for developing reliable water sources through either well drilling or surface water collection systems. Domestic wells in the area typically produce high-quality water at depths of 150-300 feet, with many property owners successfully developing wells that provide decades of reliable service. Alternative water systems include large-capacity cisterns filled by water delivery services or rainwater harvesting systems that capture seasonal precipitation for storage and use throughout the year.
- Advanced Waste Management Solutions: The property's well-drained soils and varied topography provide excellent conditions for conventional septic systems that handle household wastewater safely and efficiently for decades with minimal maintenance. Alternative waste management options include composting toilet systems that eliminate blackwater entirely, greywater recycling systems that reuse shower and laundry water for irrigation, and advanced treatment systems that exceed environmental standards while providing maximum sustainability. The property's size allows flexibility in system placement and potential future expansion while maintaining proper setbacks from water sources and neighboring properties.
- Self-Sufficient Food Production: The property's diverse microclimates and soil conditions support multiple food production strategies that can significantly reduce dependence on commercial food sources while providing healthier, more nutritious meals for your family. High-altitude gardening techniques produce exceptional cool-season crops including potatoes, carrots, lettuce, and brassicas, while greenhouse systems extend growing seasons and allow production of warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers. The property can support small livestock operations including chickens for eggs, goats for milk, or beef cattle for meat, while wild game hunting provides additional protein sources throughout the year.
- Communications and Internet Independence: Modern satellite internet systems like Starlink provide high-speed broadband connectivity that rivals urban internet service while maintaining complete location independence from traditional infrastructure. Multiple cellular carriers provide voice and data coverage throughout the area, while satellite phone systems offer backup communications during emergencies. Amateur radio systems connect property owners to worldwide communications networks and local emergency services, while modern mesh networking allows property owners to share internet connections and communications with neighboring homesteads.
- Heating and Cooling Natural Solutions: The property's abundant forest resources provide sustainable firewood for heating, while passive solar design techniques can significantly reduce heating requirements during winter months. Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces provide cozy, efficient heating that creates no monthly bills while adding ambiance and reliability that electric systems cannot match. Summer cooling needs are minimal at this elevation, with natural ventilation and earth-sheltered construction techniques maintaining comfortable interior temperatures without expensive air conditioning systems.
- Emergency Preparedness and Self-Reliance: Off-grid living naturally develops emergency preparedness skills and stockpiles that provide security during natural disasters, economic disruptions, or supply chain problems that affect urban areas. Property owners typically maintain emergency food supplies, backup power systems, alternative water sources, and medical supplies that ensure family safety during any emergency situation. The property's isolation and self-sufficiency capabilities provide peace of mind that comes from knowing you can weather any storm while maintaining comfortable living standards independent of outside assistance.
- Modern Conveniences in Remote Settings: Advanced off-grid systems now provide all modern conveniences including hot showers, flush toilets, refrigeration, lighting, and entertainment systems while maintaining complete independence from utility companies. Propane systems provide instant hot water, cooking fuel, and backup power generation, while efficient appliances minimize power consumption without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Internet connectivity enables remote work opportunities, distance learning, and entertainment streaming that keeps families connected to the broader world while enjoying mountain living freedom.
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Investment And Market Analysis
- Explosive Colorado Land Value Growth: Colorado's continued population growth and outdoor recreation economy have driven dramatic increases in rural land values, with mountain properties experiencing the strongest appreciation rates statewide. Recent market analysis shows Costilla County land values increasing by 35-50% annually over the past three years as buyers discover the area's combination of affordability, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Your 10.121-Acre property, purchased at current prices, positions you to benefit from this appreciation trend while enjoying immediate use and development potential that adds value through improvements and infrastructure development.
- Remote Work Revolution Impact: The permanent shift toward remote work capabilities has fundamentally changed rural land demand patterns, with mountain properties becoming primary residences rather than vacation retreats for thousands of professionals nationwide. Technology workers, consultants, and business owners now choose mountain locations based on quality of life rather than proximity to urban employment centers, driving unprecedented demand for properties offering both natural beauty and modern connectivity options. This demographic shift brings higher-income buyers to areas like Costilla County, supporting property values while bringing investment capital and economic development to rural communities.
- Demographic Trends Favoring Mountain Living: Baby Boomer retirement patterns show strong preferences for mountain locations offering clean air, outdoor recreation, and affordable living costs compared to traditional retirement destinations like Arizona and Florida. Additionally, younger families increasingly choose rural mountain properties for raising children in natural environments away from urban problems including crime, pollution, and overcrowded schools. These dual demographic trends create sustained demand for mountain properties from buyers across age groups and income levels, supporting long-term property value growth and market stability.
- Scarcity Value in Desirable Locations: While Colorado contains millions of acres of public land, private property suitable for residential development remains limited, especially in scenic mountain locations with good access and development potential. Your property combines rare elements including privacy, views, water sources, forest cover, and legal access that create irreplaceable value in increasingly competitive markets. As Colorado's population continues growing and development consumes available land in more accessible areas, remote mountain properties like yours become increasingly valuable as sanctuary destinations for families seeking escape from crowded urban environments.
- Infrastructure Development Supporting Values: Ongoing improvements in satellite internet, cellular coverage, and transportation infrastructure continue removing traditional barriers to mountain living while supporting property values through increased accessibility and convenience. The completion of high-speed satellite internet networks means remote properties now offer connectivity equal to urban locations, while improvements in electric vehicle technology and charging infrastructure make mountain living compatible with modern transportation preferences. These infrastructure developments support property values by expanding the potential buyer pool to include technology-dependent professionals and environmentally conscious families.
- Tourism and Recreation Economy Growth: The San Luis Valley's growing reputation as an outdoor recreation destination brings increasing numbers of visitors who often become property buyers after experiencing the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Great Sand Dunes National Park attracts over 500,000 visitors annually, many of whom explore surrounding areas and discover communities like the Sangre De Cristo Ranches. This tourism exposure creates a steady stream of potential buyers who understand the area's appeal and are willing to pay premium prices for properties offering immediate access to world-class outdoor recreation.
- Agricultural and Natural Resource Values: The property's potential for small-scale agriculture, livestock operations, and natural resource utilization provides multiple income streams that support property values while offering tax advantages through agricultural exemptions and conservation programs. Hunting lease income, timber harvesting rights, and agricultural production can generate thousands of dollars annually while maintaining the property's natural character and ecological value. These income opportunities make mountain properties more attractive to investors seeking both appreciation potential and cash flow generation from rural land investments.
- Legacy Wealth Building Opportunities: Mountain property ownership provides families with tangible wealth building that preserves value across generations while offering immediate enjoyment and use benefits that financial investments cannot provide. Unlike stocks or bonds, your property provides housing, recreation, food production, and income generation opportunities that benefit family members for decades while appreciating in value. The ability to pass improved mountain property to children and grandchildren creates generational wealth that maintains family independence and provides security during economic uncertainty or social disruption.
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Community And Services
- Strong Rural Community Values: The Sangre De Cristo Ranches subdivision attracts residents who value independence, self-reliance, and traditional American principles including property rights, individual responsibility, and community cooperation without government interference. Neighbors maintain respectful relationships while preserving privacy and personal freedom, creating a community environment where families can raise children according to their values without outside pressure or interference. The optional homeowners association operates with minimal rules and voluntary participation, ensuring community cooperation without restricting individual property rights or building freedom.
- Essential Services Within Reasonable Distance: Fort Garland (18 miles) provides essential services including groceries, fuel, hardware supplies, and postal services, while maintaining the small-town atmosphere and personal service that urban areas have lost. The historic Fort Garland Museum offers cultural activities and educational opportunities, while local businesses provide employment and services to the growing residential population. San Luis (25 miles) offers additional services including medical care, government offices, and cultural attractions that preserve the area's Hispanic heritage and traditional values.
- Quality Healthcare Access: The San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center in Alamosa (45 miles) provides full-service hospital care including emergency services, surgical capabilities, and specialty medical services that meet most healthcare needs without traveling to larger cities. Local clinics in Fort Garland and San Luis offer routine medical care, urgent care services, and prescription medications, while emergency medical services provide rapid response throughout Costilla County. The area's clean air and active outdoor lifestyle support excellent health outcomes, while the lower stress environment contributes to improved physical and mental wellbeing for residents.
- Educational Opportunities: Local school districts provide quality education with small class sizes and personalized attention that gives students advantages over overcrowded urban schools, while homeschooling families find supportive communities and resources throughout the San Luis Valley. Adams State University in Alamosa offers higher education opportunities including undergraduate and graduate degree programs, continuing education, and cultural activities that enrich the broader community. The area's rich history and natural environment provide exceptional educational opportunities for children to learn through direct experience with nature, agriculture, and traditional skills.
- Emergency Services and Public Safety: Costilla County Sheriff's Department provides professional law enforcement services with deputies familiar with rural areas and responsive to the needs of property owners and residents throughout the county. Volunteer fire departments in Fort Garland and San Luis provide fire protection services and emergency medical response, while modern communication systems ensure rapid coordination during emergencies. The strong community cooperation and mutual aid tradition means neighbors look out for each other's property and safety, providing security through community involvement rather than dependence on government services.
- Religious and Cultural Activities: Local churches represent multiple denominations and provide spiritual communities that support traditional family values and moral education for children, while cultural activities celebrate both Hispanic heritage and American frontier traditions. The historic Stations of the Cross shrine in San Luis attracts thousands of visitors annually and provides spiritual reflection opportunities in spectacular natural settings. Community events, festivals, and celebrations bring residents together while preserving cultural traditions and building relationships across generations and backgrounds.
- Shopping and Commercial Services: While major shopping requires trips to Alamosa (45 miles), local businesses provide essential goods and services while supporting the community economy and maintaining personal relationships between merchants and customers. Regional shopping centers offer major retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options, while online shopping and delivery services bring urban conveniences to rural properties. The combination of local services and internet access provides the best of both worlds-community relationships and commercial convenience.
- Professional Services Network: The growing residential population supports local professionals including contractors, electricians, plumbers, and other skilled trades who understand rural property development and off-grid systems. Real estate professionals, attorneys, accountants, and other business services serve the area's property owners and small businesses, while maintaining personal relationships and providing individualized service. The area's reputation attracts quality professionals seeking lifestyle benefits while serving clients who value expertise and reliability over lowest-cost providers.
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Seasonal Activities And Conclusion
- Spring Mountain Awakening: Spring transforms your property into a wildflower wonderland as melting snow feeds seasonal streams and awakens dormant plant life throughout the mountain landscape. March through May brings ideal weather for planning and beginning construction projects, with moderate temperatures and increasing daylight hours perfect for outdoor work. Wildflower blooms peak in late May and early June, creating spectacular displays of lupine, Indian paintbrush, and mountain asters that paint meadows in brilliant colors. Spring fishing becomes exceptional as snowmelt fills streams and lakes with cold, oxygen-rich water that activates trout feeding behavior, while turkey hunting seasons provide exciting opportunities to pursue gobblers in their prime breeding condition.
- Summer Recreation Paradise: Summer months offer the ultimate outdoor recreation season with comfortable temperatures, long daylight hours, and unlimited opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The property's elevation ensures cool, comfortable nights perfect for sleeping outdoors or keeping homes naturally cool without expensive air conditioning systems. Afternoon thunderstorms provide natural irrigation for gardens and wildflowers while creating spectacular lightning displays over the surrounding peaks, followed by dramatic rainbow displays and crystal-clear air that makes the stars seem close enough to touch. Summer also brings the peak season for construction and property improvement projects, with ideal weather conditions and long working days that maximize progress on building and development activities.
- Autumn Hunting and Harvest Season: Fall transforms the surrounding aspen groves into brilliant golden displays that create some of Colorado's most spectacular scenery, while crisp, clear weather provides perfect conditions for outdoor activities and hunting seasons. September brings the elk rut and archery season, when mature bulls respond aggressively to calling and provide the ultimate hunting challenge in spectacular mountain settings. October and November hunting seasons offer multiple opportunities for elk, deer, and other game species, while the comfortable weather and reduced insect populations make camping and hiking particularly enjoyable. Fall also provides ideal conditions for firewood cutting, property maintenance, and final preparations for winter months.
- Winter Mountain Majesty: Winter transforms your property into an exclusive snow-covered sanctuary where only the hardiest mountain adventurers can reach - creating the ultimate in wilderness privacy and pristine conditions that money cannot buy in more accessible locations. The substantial snow accumulation at this coveted high elevation creates a natural barrier that preserves the untouched character and ensures your mountain retreat remains undisturbed by casual visitors, while serious winter enthusiasts can access the property via snowmobile, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing for truly epic adventures. This seasonal exclusivity is precisely why these higher elevation properties are so prized by those who understand that true mountain value comes from authenticity, not convenience. The solitude and pristine conditions during winter months create the kind of exclusive mountain experience that becomes more valuable each year, while nearby accessible areas offer world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding at Wolf Creek Ski Area when you want the amenities. Winter also provides opportunities for ice fishing at lower elevations, winter photography, and wildlife tracking that reveal why this elevation produces the trophy animals that serious hunters seek.
- Year-Round Wildlife Theater: Every season brings different wildlife viewing opportunities as animals adapt to changing conditions and follow ancient migration patterns that cross your property. Spring brings returning songbirds, active bears emerging from winter dens, and newborn wildlife learning survival skills from their parents. Summer provides peak wildlife viewing as abundant food sources support large populations of deer, elk, and smaller species that remain active throughout daylight hours. Fall brings the excitement of elk bugling, deer rutting behavior, and migration movements as animals prepare for winter. Winter wildlife viewing reveals the hardy species that remain active in snow conditions, while tracks in fresh snow tell stories of nighttime animal activities and territorial movements.
- Investment Security and Personal Freedom: Your 10.121-Acre mountain property represents more than just a real estate investment-it's your family's insurance policy against economic uncertainty, social disruption, and the loss of personal freedom that threatens American families everywhere. While urban property owners remain dependent on government services, utility companies, and complex supply chains that can fail during emergencies, your mountain sanctuary provides the self-reliance and independence that our ancestors took for granted. The property's natural resources, development potential, and strategic location ensure your family's security while providing the foundation for building generational wealth through careful stewardship and improvement.
- Legacy Building for Future Generations: This property offers your family the opportunity to create a legacy that will benefit children and grandchildren for decades to come, providing them with the connection to nature, traditional values, and self-reliance skills that build character and confidence. Unlike urban properties that depreciate through wear and crime, your mountain sanctuary will appreciate in value while providing educational opportunities that schools cannot offer-learning to live with nature, understanding weather patterns, developing practical skills, and experiencing the satisfaction that comes from providing for your family through your own efforts and planning.
- Your Mountain Dream Awaits: The combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, investment potential, and personal freedom available on this 10.121-Acre mountain property creates a unique opportunity to escape the restrictions and problems of modern urban life while building the secure, independent lifestyle that represents the best of American tradition. This high-elevation seasonal retreat property is ideal for families seeking a mountain sanctuary accessible from late spring through early fall, when snow conditions typically limit winter access and make year-round residence impractical. Whether you choose to build a seasonal cabin, hunting lodge, or family retreat compound, this property provides the foundation for creating exactly the mountain getaway you envision in one of Colorado's most spectacular and pristine wilderness regions.
The time to act is now. High-elevation Colorado mountain properties with this combination of size, location, natural features, and seasonal accessibility become more rare and expensive each year as demand continues growing from buyers nationwide seeking the freedom, security, and seasonal mountain lifestyle that only remote wilderness property ownership can provide. Your family deserves this opportunity to build the independent, seasonal mountain retreat that will serve them well for generations to come.
The details provided in this property listing are believed to be reliable but are not warranted. Prospective buyers should perform their own research and verification of all information before making purchase decisions.
Lot Maps & Attachments
Directions to Lot
From San Luis, head southwest toward E Church Pl, then continue onto N Church Pl.
Turn right onto CO-159 N/Main St and continue on CO-159 N for 1.6 miles.
Turn right onto County Rd 19 5 and follow for 1.3 miles.
Turn right onto Rito Seco Rd and continue for 4.4 miles.
Continue onto Juarez Rd for 1.0 mile.
Turn right onto Forbes Rd and follow for 8.2 miles to the property.
