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Private Rocky Mountain Playground

San Luis, CO 81133

Costilla County, Colorado

5.19 Acres
$7,900 USD
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Farm Description

Your 5.19-Acre Colorado Mountain Adventure Sanctuary

Where Elk Trail Through Your Backyard and Freedom Has an Address

This is your moment. The moment when everything changes. When you stop dreaming about mountain living and start living it. When you finally say "Yes" to the life you've always imagined but never thought possible.

This isn't just undeveloped land. This is your freedom manifest in 5.19 pristine acres of Colorado wilderness where the Sangre de Cristo Mountains frame your sunsets, elk migrate through your backyard, and the night sky is so clear you'll swear you could lasso a star.

Welcome to your Colorado legacy at 37.30486, -105.45011.

Property Snapshot: Your Gateway to Mountain Freedom

Your Mountain Kingdom Awaits

- Size: 5.19 acres of pristine Colorado wilderness at 8,000+ feet elevation

- Location: Costilla County, Colorado (Apn: 70334660)

- Zoning: Estate Residential - Maximum building flexibility

- Access: County-maintained rural road (Modoc Ave)

- Annual Taxes: Just $128.56/Year - Less than your monthly coffee budget

- Flood Zone: Safe - Not in Fema flood zone

- Hoa: None - Your land, your rules, your freedom

- Historic Significance: Heart of ancient Ute hunting grounds and Spanish exploration routes

Location Benefits: The Smart Choice for Colorado Living

You've discovered the secret. While everyone else pays premium prices in Denver and Colorado Springs, you'll enjoy mountain tranquility in Costilla County with world-class recreation just minutes away. This is strategic Colorado living at its finest.

Your Strategic Position:

- 12 minutes to Fort Garland - Historic frontier town with gas, groceries, and the legendary Fort Garland Museum where Kit Carson commanded

- 35 minutes to Alamosa - Full-service regional hub with Walmart, medical facilities, Adams State University, and complete commercial services

- 45 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park - North America's tallest sand dunes rising 750 feet, offering sandboarding, hiking, and incredible stargazing

- 1 hour to Wolf Creek Ski Area - Colorado's snow capital receiving 430+ inches annually

- 2 hours to Colorado Springs - Major metropolitan area with international airport and Pike's Peak

- Historic Spanish Colonial routes - Your property sits along ancient trade paths connecting Santa Fe to Colorado

The San Luis Valley Advantage: At 8,000+ feet elevation, you're living in the world's largest alpine valley - 8,000 square miles of raw, untamed beauty surrounded by fourteen 14,000-Foot peaks. This massive valley offers 300+ days of sunshine annually and the perfect climate for year-round outdoor recreation.

Property Features: Nature's Masterpiece, Your Canvas

This isn't just undeveloped land - this is your blank canvas waiting for your vision to come alive on 5.19 acres of prime Colorado real estate in one of the state's most pristine recreational corridors.

Your Natural Sanctuary:

- Perfect elevation: 8,000+ feet above sea level - above the smog, perfect mountain climate

- Gentle rolling terrain: Ideal for building with multiple site options for different orientations and views

- 360-Degree mountain views: Sangre de Cristo Range dominates your eastern horizon with multiple 14ers visible

- High desert vegetation: Native pinyon pines, juniper, and wild grasses create natural beauty and wildlife habitat

- Strategic building orientation: Southern exposure maximizes solar gain while minimizing winter wind exposure

- Natural privacy: Feel like you own the entire valley with minimal neighbors and maximum space

Premium Building Conditions:

- Excellent drainage: No flooding concerns due to elevated position and desert climate

- Stable geological foundation: Ancient Valley Fill formation provides excellent support for any structure

- Multiple building sites: Choose your perfect spot for optimal mountain vistas and sun exposure

- Superior wind resources: 10-12 mph average speeds perfect for alternative energy and wind power systems

- Dark skies for stargazing: Bortle Scale 2-3 - among the darkest skies in the continental United States

Rocky Mountains Paradise: Where Adventure Lives

You're not just buying land - you're buying access to the greatest outdoor playground on Earth. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains rising from your backyard offer world-class recreation year-round.

Your 14er Climbing Adventures:

Living at 8,000+ feet elevation puts you in the heart of Colorado's most accessible 14er territory. The Sangre de Cristo Range rising from your backyard contains ten peaks over 14,000 feet, offering everything from gentle hiking to technical rock climbing challenges.

- Mt. Blanca (14,345 feet) - Just 45 minutes from your property, this massive peak dominates your eastern skyline and serves as Colorado's fourth-highest summit. Multiple route options include the standard Class 2 hike via Lake Como Road, perfect for beginners, and the challenging technical routes up the northwest face for experienced climbers. The summit offers 360-Degree views across three states and serves as a prominent landmark visible from over 100 miles away.

- Culebra Peak (14,047 feet) - Colorado's southernmost 14er presents a unique opportunity as one of the few privately-owned fourteeners in the state. Access requires permission from the Cielo Vista Ranch, making this an exclusive climbing experience with pristine wilderness conditions and minimal crowds. The peak offers spectacular views of the San Luis Valley and represents a true adventure for dedicated mountaineers seeking solitude.

- Kit Carson Peak (14,165 feet) - This technical scrambling paradise features knife-edge ridges, dramatic exposure, and some of Colorado's most challenging Class 3-4 rock climbing. The standard route requires technical skills and comfort with exposure, making it a rite of passage for serious Colorado climbers. Connected to Challenger Point via a spectacular ridge traverse, this peak system offers multi-day climbing adventures.

- Crestone Peak (14,294 feet) - Regularly featured in mountaineering magazines as one of Colorado's most difficult standard routes, this peak demands rock climbing skills and route-finding ability. The Red Couloir route involves loose rock, technical moves, and serious commitment, earning it a reputation as a true mountaineering challenge. Only experienced climbers should attempt this peak, making a successful summit a genuine mountaineering achievement.

- Challenger Point (14,081 feet) - Often climbed in combination with Kit Carson Peak, this summit offers non-technical climbing with spectacular ridge walks and 360-Degree mountain vistas. The approach through Willow Lake provides alpine scenery and excellent acclimatization for higher peaks.

- Humboldt Peak (14,064 feet) - Perfect for 14er beginners, this peak features a well-maintained trail, moderate difficulty, and rewarding summit views of the entire Sangre range. The standard route gains about 3,500 feet over 6 miles, making it an excellent training peak for more challenging objectives.

Winter Sports Paradise:

Your location provides unparalleled access to Colorado's finest winter recreation, from world-class ski areas to unlimited backcountry adventures right from your doorstep.

- Wolf Creek Ski Area (2 hours) - Legendary among powder hounds as Colorado's snow capital, receiving an average of 430+ inches of natural snowfall annually. The area features 1,600 acres of skiable terrain spread across 77 trails, with vertical drop of 1,604 feet and a season typically running from November through April. The combination of high elevation (base at 10,300 feet) and southern Colorado's storm patterns creates some of the deepest, driest powder conditions in North America.

- Backcountry skiing paradise - Your property sits at the base of countless unnamed bowls, couloirs, and gladed slopes perfect for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. The Sangre de Cristo Range offers everything from gentle tree skiing for intermediates to steep chutes exceeding 45 degrees for experts. Popular areas include the numerous bowls above timberline accessed via established skin tracks, with runs extending over 3,000 vertical feet back toward the valley floor.

- Cross-country skiing networks - The San Luis Valley features hundreds of miles of groomed and ungroomed cross-country skiing trails. The Rio Grande National Forest maintains several Nordic trail systems, including routes connecting to backcountry huts for multi-day adventures. The flat valley floor provides perfect terrain for classic and skate skiing, while the surrounding foothills offer more challenging terrain for backcountry Nordic touring.

- Snowmobiling empire - Over 2,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails cross public lands throughout the region, connecting to trail systems extending across multiple national forests. Popular areas include the Continental Divide Trail system, high-altitude bowl riding above treeline, and scenic tours through aspen groves and alpine meadows. Many trails connect to warming huts and mountain lodges for extended winter adventures.

- Ice climbing opportunities - Frozen waterfalls throughout the Sangre de Cristo Range create world-class ice climbing from December through March. Routes range from beginner-friendly WI2 flows to technical Wi5+ multi-pitch climbs, with many areas accessible via snowshoe or ski approach from your property.

Hunting and Fishing Excellence:

Your property location in Game Management Unit 83 places you in the heart of one of Colorado's premier hunting regions, with the massive Trinchera elk herd and outstanding public land access creating exceptional opportunities.

- Unit 83 elk hunting supremacy - Home to the legendary Trinchera elk herd numbering over 15,000 animals, this unit consistently produces trophy bulls scoring 300+ inches. The bull-to-cow ratio of approximately 70 bulls per 100 cows ensures excellent breeding and trophy potential. Archery season runs September 1-30, with multiple rifle seasons from October through November, providing options for every hunting preference.

- Daily elk encounters - During spring and fall migrations, herds exceeding 100 animals regularly move through private properties in the area. These migrations follow ancient routes between summer ranges above 10,000 feet and winter ranges in the valley, creating predictable wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities. Peak activity occurs during the September rut when bulls bugle echoes across the valley at dawn and dusk.

- Trophy mule deer paradise - The Costilla deer herd maintains a population near 3,000 animals with an exceptional buck-to-doe ratio of approximately 40 bucks per 100 does. This management strategy produces mature bucks with impressive antler development, including numerous 180+ inch specimens. The diverse habitat from desert scrub to alpine tundra supports healthy deer populations year-round.

- Public land hunting access - Over 5,000 acres of dedicated Greenbelt lands provide public hunting access without the crowds found in more popular units. The Sangre de Cristo Ranches area features 400 miles of roads providing access to vast hunting territories. State Wildlife Areas and National Forest lands offer unlimited hunting opportunities for residents and visitors with proper licenses.

- Black bear hunting - Excellent populations in oak brush and aspen areas, with both spring and fall seasons available. Bears concentrate in berry patches during late summer, creating predictable hunting opportunities.

- Mountain lion hunting - Unlimited tags available with proper harvest regulations, providing year-round hunting for these elusive predators in suitable habitat throughout the high country.

- Pronghorn antelope - Limited draw units nearby offer opportunities for these speed demons of the prairie, with trophy animals exceeding 80 inches possible in select areas.

Water Adventures:

The Rio Grande headwaters region surrounding your property offers some of Colorado's finest fishing and water recreation opportunities.

- Rio Grande River (20 miles west) - This legendary waterway begins in the San Juan Mountains and flows 1,896 miles to the Gulf of Mexico, making it North America's fourth-longest river system. The upper reaches near your property offer Gold Medal Waters designation with wild rainbow and brown trout, along with native Rio Grande cutthroat trout in pristine habitat. World-class fly fishing includes dry fly action during summer evenings and streamer fishing for trophy browns exceeding 20 inches.

- Mountain Home Reservoir (30 minutes) - This 19,500 acre-foot impoundment provides excellent fishing for rainbow trout regularly stocked by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The reservoir typically produces trout in the 14-20 inch range, with occasional trophy specimens exceeding 24 inches. Boat launches, camping facilities, and fish cleaning stations make this a complete fishing destination. Ice fishing during winter months can be exceptional for persistent anglers.

- Costilla Creek (15 minutes) - Native Rio Grande cutthroat trout habitat offering catch-and-release fishing for Colorado's state fish. These beautiful native trout represent a conservation success story, with populations restored through careful management and habitat protection. Traditional fly fishing techniques work best in the clear, cold water flowing from high alpine cirques.

- Sanchez Reservoir (45 minutes) - Covering 19,500 acre-feet, this water body offers diverse fishing opportunities including northern pike, yellow perch, rainbow trout, and catfish. The reservoir supports excellent ice fishing during winter months and provides boat launching facilities for water sports during summer.

- Platoro Reservoir (1.5 hours) - Located at 10,000+ feet elevation in pristine National Forest setting, this high mountain lake offers backcountry fishing for brook and rainbow trout. The stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear water create an unforgettable fishing experience accessible via maintained forest roads.

- Seasonal creek fishing - Numerous tributaries flowing from the Sangre de Cristo Range provide seasonal fishing opportunities for native and stocked trout. Many of these waters remain unnamed and lightly fished, offering solitude and pristine fishing conditions for adventurous anglers willing to hike into remote locations.

Incredible Wildlife: Your Daily Entertainment

Living here means front-row seats to nature's greatest show. Your property sits in one of Colorado's richest wildlife corridors, where ancient migration routes cross the San Luis Valley, creating a year-round wildlife spectacle that rivals any nature documentary.

Large Game Spectacles:

- Rocky Mountain Elk - The crown jewel of your wildlife viewing experience, with the massive Trinchera elk herd numbering over 15,000 animals creating daily entertainment throughout the year. During peak migration periods in spring and fall, herds exceeding 200 animals move through the valley in impressive processions that can last for hours. The September rutting season transforms your property into a natural amphitheater where bulls weighing up to 800 pounds engage in spectacular bugling contests that echo across the mountains for miles. Mature bulls sporting antlers spanning 4-5 feet create unforgettable photo opportunities as they gather harems of cows and defend their territory against challengers.

- Mule deer abundance - Year-round residents providing constant wildlife viewing opportunities as they browse native vegetation throughout your property. Trophy bucks with impressive 4x4 and 5x5 antler configurations become increasingly visible during the November rut when they abandon their normally secretive behavior. Does with spotted fawns during late spring and early summer create heartwarming family scenes, while winter herds concentrated on south-facing slopes offer excellent viewing during Colorado's snowy months.

- Black bears - These intelligent omnivores make occasional appearances on your property, particularly during late summer when they're preparing for winter hibernation. Adult bears can weigh 200-400 pounds and display remarkable problem-solving abilities, making proper food storage essential but wildlife viewing rewarding. Spring emergence in April and May often brings mothers with cubs, creating incredible wildlife photography opportunities for those who maintain respectful distances.

- Mountain lions - The apex predators of the region, these elusive cats leave tracks and signs throughout your property while rarely showing themselves to humans. Adult lions can measure 8 feet from nose to tail and possess incredible hunting abilities, primarily preying on deer and elk. Fresh tracks in snow or mud indicate their regular presence, and fortunate observers might catch glimpses of these magnificent predators moving silently through aspen groves at dawn or dusk.

- Bighorn sheep - These magnificent climbers occasionally appear on distant peaks visible from your property, their curved horns and sure-footed cliff navigation creating spectacular viewing through binoculars or spotting scopes. Rams can weigh up to 300 pounds, and their horn-clashing battles during rutting season produce sounds that carry for miles across alpine basins.

- Wild horses - Free-roaming mustang herds descended from Spanish Colonial horses live throughout the San Luis Valley, offering glimpses into the Old West heritage of the region. These hardy animals have adapted to high-altitude desert conditions over centuries, and spotting a herd galloping across the valley floor creates unforgettable memories of Colorado's wild heritage.

Incredible Bird Life:

Your property's elevation and habitat diversity attract over 200 bird species throughout the year, creating world-class birdwatching opportunities.

- Golden eagles - These magnificent raptors soar daily overhead on wingspans reaching 7.5 feet, utilizing thermal currents to hunt for prairie dogs, rabbits, and even young deer or elk. Mated pairs often nest on cliff faces within viewing distance of your property, and watching them teach their young to hunt creates incredible wildlife viewing experiences. Their incredible eyesight allows them to spot prey from over 2 miles away, and their diving speeds can exceed 200 mph.

- Sandhill cranes - One of nature's most spectacular migrations occurs twice yearly as tens of thousands of these ancient birds funnel through the San Luis Valley. Their distinctive bugling calls can be heard from miles away as massive V-formations stretch across the sky. Peak migration periods in March and October bring gatherings exceeding 20,000 birds, creating a deafening chorus and unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

- Mountain bluebirds - These brilliant azure residents flash through the pinyon pines like living jewels, their electric blue coloration contrasting dramatically against the high desert landscape. Males display vibrant blue plumage during breeding season while females show more subdued blue-gray coloring. They nest in tree cavities and hunt insects from exposed perches, making them easily observable and photographable.

- Great horned owls - The apex nocturnal predators of your property, these powerful hunters announce their presence with haunting five-note calls that echo across the valley throughout the night. Standing nearly 2 feet tall with distinctive ear tufts, they hunt everything from mice to rabbits and even skunks. Their silent flight capabilities and exceptional night vision make them perfectly adapted to high-altitude hunting.

- Bald eagles - Winter visitors along the Rio Grande corridor, these national symbols congregate near open water areas where they fish for trout and hunt waterfowl. Adults display the characteristic white head and tail feathers, while juveniles show mottled brown plumage for their first four years.

- Peregrine falcons - The world's fastest birds nest in nearby cliff faces and hunt other birds in spectacular high-speed aerial displays. Their hunting dives can exceed 240 mph, making them nature's ultimate speed demons.

- White-tailed ptarmigan - Colorado's state bird inhabits the alpine tundra above treeline, changing plumage seasonally from mottled brown in summer to pure white in winter for perfect camouflage.

- Wild turkeys - Reintroduced Merriam's subspecies provide excellent wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities, with gobblers strutting during spring mating displays and family flocks visible throughout the year.

Historic Treasures: Standing Where Legends Walked

Your property sits in the heart of the American West's most storied landscape, where every direction holds centuries of fascinating history. Spanish conquistadors, Native American tribes, legendary frontiersmen, and pioneering settlers all left their mark on this dramatic terrain, creating layers of human drama spanning over a millennium.

Ancient Heritage:

- Ute Indian Territory - For over 1,000 years, this region served as sacred hunting grounds where the Ute, Jicarilla Apache, and Comanche tribes established seasonal camps, trading routes, and spiritual sites that remain culturally significant today. Archaeological evidence reveals continuous human habitation for over 10,000 years, with arrowheads, pottery shards, and petroglyphs found throughout the valley. The Utes called this area "the valley of the blue water" and considered the hot springs sacred healing places where tribal members would gather for ceremonies and healing rituals.

- Spanish Exploration heritage - Don Diego de Vargas reached this region in 1694 during his reconquest expeditions, making it one of the first European-explored areas in Colorado, predating most other territorial exploration by decades. Spanish expeditions established the Old Spanish Trail through this area, creating the primary trade route connecting Santa Fe to California for over 200 years. Pack trains carrying silver, wool, and manufactured goods followed ancient Indian paths through your area, establishing trading posts and rest stops that became the foundation for later settlements.

- Old Spanish Trail legacy - This historic trade route connecting Santa Fe to California passed directly through your area, with wagon ruts still visible in places and trading posts established along the Rio Grande. The trail operated from 1829 to 1848, carrying millions of dollars in trade goods and establishing Colorado's first international commerce. Merchants, explorers, and adventurers following this route included famous names like Kit Carson, John C. Fremont, and countless unnamed pioneers seeking fortune in the California gold fields.

Fort Garland Heritage (12 minutes):

Your proximity to Fort Garland connects you directly to some of the most dramatic chapters in Colorado territorial history and the epic saga of westward expansion.

- Kit Carson's final command - The legendary frontiersman served as commanding officer from 1866-1867, making this his last military assignment before retirement. Carson, already famous for his roles as explorer, trapper, and Civil War hero, used Fort Garland as headquarters for negotiating the final peace treaties with regional Native American tribes. His presence brought national attention to the area and attracted other famous frontier figures who visited the fort during his tenure.

- Frontier military heritage - Built in 1858 to protect settlers during the dangerous territorial period when conflicts between Native Americans and incoming settlers threatened to erupt into full-scale warfare. The fort served as the last line of defense for pioneers entering the San Luis Valley and provided crucial protection for trade routes and early settlements. Original adobe buildings constructed by military engineers using local materials still stand today, representing some of Colorado's finest preserved frontier military architecture.

- Buffalo Soldiers legacy - The famous African American cavalry units of the 9th Cavalry were stationed here from 1876-1879, representing some of the most elite fighting units in the frontier army. These soldiers earned the respect of Native American opponents who called them "Buffalo Soldiers" in recognition of their fighting prowess and courage. Their service at Fort Garland included protecting railroad construction crews, pursuing horse thieves, and maintaining peace during the volatile period of western expansion.

- Civil War connections - Colorado volunteers trained at Fort Garland before marching south to fight Confederate forces in the crucial Battle of Glorieta Pass, New Mexico, which ended Confederate hopes of capturing Colorado's gold fields and expanding their territory westward. The fort served as a recruiting station and training facility for volunteers who helped secure the Southwest for the Union cause.

- National recognition - Recently named a finalist for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, acknowledging its exceptional preservation of frontier military history and innovative educational programs that bring the Old West to life for thousands of annual visitors.

Living History Access:

Your property provides immediate access to a remarkable concentration of historical sites and cultural attractions.

- San Luis heritage (30 minutes) - Colorado's oldest continuously occupied town, founded in 1851 by Hispanic settlers from Taos, New Mexico, who brought traditional building techniques, agricultural methods, and cultural practices still visible today. The original Spanish Colonial plaza design remains intact, with the historic Catholic church serving as the spiritual center of the community for over 170 years. Traditional acequia irrigation systems dating to the 1850S still provide water for local agriculture, representing 400-Year-Old water management techniques brought from Spain via Mexico.

- Great Sand Dunes National Park history - Originally established as a national monument in 1932 by President Herbert Hoover after a grassroots conservation campaign led by local citizens concerned about mining threats to the unique landscape. The designation represented one of the early victories of the American conservation movement and demonstrates how local activism can preserve natural treasures for future generations.

- Ancient petroglyphs and artifacts - Native American rock art, sacred sites, and archaeological remains scattered throughout the valley provide tangible connections to thousands of years of human history. Many sites remain protected and undisturbed, offering opportunities for respectful observation and appreciation of Colorado's indigenous heritage.

- Historic mining legacy - The 1858 Colorado Gold Rush brought thousands of prospectors into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, establishing mining camps with colorful names like Russell, Grayback, and Orient. Ghost town remnants, abandoned mine shafts, and mining equipment scattered throughout the mountains tell stories of boom-and-bust cycles that shaped Colorado's early development.

- Railroad history - The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad reached the San Luis Valley in the 1870S, transforming isolated frontier settlements into connected communities and enabling large-scale agricultural development that continues today.

Land Use Possibilities: Your Vision, Unlimited

Estate Residential zoning gives you maximum flexibility to create exactly what you want - from simple weekend retreat to elaborate mountain compound. Costilla County's progressive land use policies combined with minimal HOA restrictions create unprecedented freedom for property owners seeking authentic mountain living.

Residential Dreams:

- Custom mountain home paradise - Build your dream residence with minimum 600 square feet for one-story homes or 800 square feet for two-story designs, but no maximum size restrictions means you can create anything from a cozy cabin to a grand mountain estate. Architectural styles range from traditional log construction to modern sustainable designs, with southern exposure opportunities for passive solar heating and spectacular mountain views from every window.

- Tiny home pioneer territory - At 600+ square feet, your dwelling qualifies as a legal "tiny house" under county regulations, making this perfect for minimalist living enthusiasts seeking to reduce their environmental footprint while maximizing their connection to nature. The high desert climate and abundant sunshine make tiny homes particularly practical with solar power systems and composting toilets.

- Manufactured mobile home welcome - Both single and double-wide manufactured homes are explicitly allowed under Estate Residential zoning, provided they meet the 1976 or newer requirement. This creates an affordable path to mountain living while you plan and save for a custom home, or a permanent housing solution that maximizes your investment in land rather than structures.

- Off-grid sanctuary potential - Design the ultimate self-sufficient mountain retreat using solar power systems (with 320+ days of annual sunshine), wind turbines (taking advantage of consistent 10-12 mph average winds), well water, and septic systems to create complete independence from traditional utilities. Colorado's progressive off-grid regulations and the San Luis Valley's excellent renewable energy resources make this an ideal location for sustainable living.

- RV living paradise - Short-term camping up to 14 days every 3 months requires no permits and provides immediate enjoyment of your property while planning development. Long-term RV permits available for 60-day periods, renewable three times annually, allow for extended stays while building or during seasonal use. RV occupancy permits can be obtained during home construction, providing temporary housing during the building process.

Recreational Paradise:

Transform your property into the ultimate outdoor recreation base camp with uses that maximize Colorado's incredible natural resources.

- Hunting lodge headquarters - Create the perfect base camp for Rocky Mountain hunting adventures in prime Unit 83 territory. Design facilities for processing game, storing hunting equipment, housing hunting parties, and planning expeditions into the vast surrounding public lands. The property's strategic location provides access to elk, deer, bear, and mountain lion hunting without the crowded conditions found in more popular hunting areas.

- Family compound for generations - Estate Residential zoning allows two homes on your property: a main residence plus a guest house or mother-in-law suite, perfect for multi-generational mountain living where grandparents, parents, and children can share the mountain lifestyle while maintaining privacy and independence. This arrangement allows cost-sharing for land ownership while creating a family legacy property.

- Event venue with mountain magic - The spectacular mountain backdrop, dark starry skies, and natural amphitheater terrain make your property ideal for weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions, and other special events. Estate Residential zoning allows commercial events with proper permits, creating potential income streams from your mountain paradise.

- Photography and artist studio - Incredible natural lighting conditions, 360-Degree mountain backdrops, and diverse seasonal scenery provide perfect conditions for professional photography studios, artist retreats, or creative workshops. The combination of dramatic landscapes and excellent weather conditions creates year-round opportunities for outdoor photography and artistic inspiration.

Agricultural and Investment Opportunities:

Estate Residential zoning surprisingly allows numerous agricultural and investment uses that can generate income while you enjoy mountain living.

- Hobby farming at altitude - High-altitude agriculture takes advantage of intense sunlight, clean air, and mineral-rich soil to produce premium crops including herbs, vegetables, and specialty grains. The 8,000+ foot elevation extends growing seasons for cool-weather crops while the intense UV radiation concentrates flavors and nutrients. Greenhouse operations can extend growing seasons year-round.

- Livestock operations - Cattle, horses, sheep, or goats are explicitly allowed under agricultural zoning provisions, enabling ranching operations from small hobby farms to commercial livestock enterprises. The native grass meadows provide excellent grazing, while the mountain environment produces healthy, hardy animals. Horse properties are particularly popular for trail riding and pack animal operations.

- Land banking strategy - Colorado land values have increased 6.8% annually over the past decade, with mountain properties showing even stronger appreciation due to limited supply and increasing demand from urban refugees seeking outdoor lifestyles. Your property represents a tangible asset that appreciates while providing immediate recreational benefits.

- Eco-tourism development - Sustainable income opportunities from nature experiences include guided hiking, wildlife viewing tours, photography workshops, hunting guide services, and educational programs about mountain ecosystems. The growing market for authentic outdoor experiences creates income potential while preserving the natural character of your property.

- Alternative energy production - Excellent solar and wind resources create opportunities for renewable energy installations that can generate income through net metering programs while providing energy independence. Solar installations pay for themselves within 5-7 years and can generate surplus power for sale back to the grid.

- Event and retreat hosting - Mountain properties command premium rates for wedding venues, corporate retreats, spiritual retreats, and educational programs. The combination of spectacular scenery, privacy, and outdoor recreation opportunities creates strong demand for unique venue spaces.

- Seasonal rental income - Vacation rental demand in Colorado mountain areas continues growing as urban dwellers seek authentic outdoor experiences. Your property could generate significant rental income during peak seasons while you enjoy it during off-peak periods or other times of year.

Community Overview: True Colorado Living

Costilla County Heritage:

Costilla County is Colorado's oldest county with deep historical roots and rugged beauty. The county has a population of about 3,500, or about 3 people per square mile, ensuring incredible privacy and space between you and your neighbors.

Fort Garland (12 minutes):

- Population 607 - Small enough that neighbors know each other

- Full services - Gas stations, Old Fort Market grocery, restaurants, and antique shops

- Community center - Blanca/Fort Garland Community Center open year-round

- Gateway location - Called the "Gateway to the San Luis Valley" at 7,936 feet elevation

Alamosa (35 minutes):

- Regional hub - Complete commercial services including Walmart, Home Depot, medical facilities

- Adams State University - Educational opportunities and cultural events

- Full medical care - San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center with emergency services

Climate and Terrain: Four-Season Mountain Paradise

Welcome to Colorado's perfect climate - where every season brings new adventures and every day feels like vacation.

High Desert Mountain Climate at 8,000+ Feet:

- Summer (June-August): Perfect 75°F average highs with cool 45°F nights for comfortable sleeping

- Fall (September-November): Crisp 60°F days with golden aspen displays and spectacular hunting weather

- Winter (December-February): Snowy wonderland with 35°F highs perfect for skiing and winter sports

- Spring (March-May): Wildflower explosion with 55°F temperatures and perfect construction weather

- Annual precipitation: 10-12 inches with 320+ days of sunshine annually

- Low humidity: Comfortable dry air eliminates muggy conditions year-round

Perfect Building Terrain:

- Gentle rolling topography: 3-9% slopes perfect for construction without expensive grading

- Natural drainage: Sandy loam soil prevents water problems and foundation issues

- Strategic wind protection: Terrain features minimize heating costs and structural stress

- Multiple view corridors: Place your home for optimal sunrise, sunset, or 360-Degree mountain vistas

Investment Potential: Smart Money Moves to Colorado

Colorado Land Investment Advantages:

- Population growth: Colorado adds hundreds of new residents weekly, driving land demand

- Strategic location: Between major growth centers with easy access to recreation

- Recreation premium: Properties with hunting, fishing, and outdoor access command higher values

- No HOA restrictions: Maximum development and use flexibility increases value

- Water rights potential: Well permits available for properties platted before June 1972

Smart Investment Factors:

- Alternative energy potential: Excellent solar and wind resources with 320+ days of sunshine

- Tourism growth: Colorado's year-round appeal drives recreational tourism markets

- Climate resilience: High elevation provides natural protection from extreme weather

- Limited supply: Pristine mountain properties with wildlife access increasingly rare

Utilities and Infrastructure: Modern Convenience Meets Mountain Living

Essential Services:

- Power: Contact Mohave Electric Coop or UniSource Energy Services for connection

- Water: Typical well depth 150-400 feet in this elevation range, costs $6,500-$11,000 complete

- Sewer: Septic system required, costs around $5,000-$8,000 to install

- Internet: Cellular and satellite options including Starlink

Alternative Energy Excellence:

- Solar power: San Luis Valley has strongest solar resources in Colorado with highest per capita solar installations

- Wind energy: 10-12 mph average speeds ideal for small turbine systems

- Backup power: Propane generators common for high-demand tool usage

Water Solutions:

- Well drilling: Average cost around $5,000 for 150-Foot well plus equipment

- Water hauling: Fill 500-Gallon tank at Alamosa Water Department for $2.50

- Rainwater collection: Legal and encouraged in Colorado

Zoning and Building Information: Maximum Freedom

Estate Residential Zoning Advantages:

- Minimum dwelling: 600 square feet for one-story, 800 square feet for two-story

- Two homes allowed: Main residence plus guest house or mother-in-law suite

- Manufactured homes: Welcome (1976 or newer models)

- RV placement: Short-term and long-term options with proper permits

- No required HOAs: Maximum freedom for your vision

Building Requirements:

- Permits required: Contact Costilla County Planning & Zoning

- Build timeline: No time limit to build - your lot held indefinitely

- Construction permits: All water, construction, and septic projects require permits

Nearby Attractions and Amenities: Your Recreation Playground

National Treasures:

- Great Sand Dunes National Park (45 min) - North America's tallest sand dunes rising 750 feet with sandboarding, Medano Creek, and incredible stargazing

- Sangre de Cristo Wilderness (20 min) - 220,000 acres of pristine backcountry with over 50 alpine lakes

- Rio Grande National Forest (30 min) - 1.86 million acres of public land for hunting, fishing, and camping

Historic Sites and Culture:

- Fort Garland Museum (12 min) - Kit Carson's final command post with preserved 1858 military buildings

- San Luis (30 min) - Colorado's oldest continuously occupied town with rich Hispanic heritage

- Los Caminos Antiguos Byway - Historic scenic route spanning 129 miles through southern Colorado

Outdoor Recreation Mecca:

- World-class hunting - Trophy elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain lion opportunities

- Premium fishing - Native cutthroat trout, rainbow, and brown trout in pristine mountain waters

- Unlimited hiking - 180 miles of trails ending at alpine lakes against virtually unclimbable walls

- Winter sports access - World-class skiing, snowmobiling, and backcountry adventures

Pricing and Financing: Make Your Dream Affordable

Invest in your Colorado dream with options that work for every budget:

Cash Price: $7,900 (plus $250 doc fee)

- Immediate ownership with clear title

- No financing hassles or interest charges

- Quick closing for immediate use

Owner Financing Available:

- $178 down + $250 doc fee ($428 total to start)

- $178/Month for 60 months

- Zero interest - What you see is what you pay

- No prepayment penalties - Pay off early without fees

- No credit checks - Your property secures the loan

- Everyone qualifies - Simple approval process

Why This is the Deal of a Lifetime:

At less than $6/day, this is cheaper than your gym membership - and 10x more exhilarating. You're not just buying land; you're investing in freedom, adventure, and a legacy that will appreciate for generations.

How to Secure Your Colorado Sanctuary

Your Journey to Land Ownership is Simple:

1. Choose Your Option - Cash purchase or easy owner financing

2. Simple Paperwork - Secure with down payment, we handle the rest

3. Quick Ownership - Property is yours after signing

4. Easy Management - User-friendly online payment portal

5. Start Your Adventure - Begin planning your Colorado dream life

What You Get:

- Clear title - Your name on the deed with warranty

- Complete property package - GPS coordinates, maps, and documentation

- Expert guidance - Support through the entire process

- 30-day money-back guarantee - Complete confidence in your investment

Call to Action: Answer Your Colorado Calling

Don't let another day pass without claiming your piece of Colorado paradise.

This 5.19-Acre sanctuary in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is your ticket to the mountain lifestyle you've always dreamed of. Prime hunting territory, world-class fishing, unlimited outdoor recreation, and the kind of freedom that only comes with owning your own piece of the American West.

The Smart Money is Moving to Colorado. Strategic location, wildlife access, recreation premium, no HOA restrictions, and incredible pricing make this the investment opportunity you've been waiting for.

Your Mountain Adventure is Calling. Answer now and take the first step toward your new life where elk trail through your backyard, eagles soar overhead, and every day feels like the adventure you were born to live.

Contact Us Today

Click the orange "Send Email" button now for your complete property package including:

- High-definition drone footage and professional property photographs

- Detailed GPS coordinates and survey maps

- Area amenities and attraction guide

- Step-by-step ownership process explanation

- Financing options breakdown

Questions? We Have Answers:

- Property tours and detailed information

- Financing options explanation

- Building and development planning

- Hunting and recreation guidance

- Wildlife viewing recommendations

Remember: With our 30-day, no-questions-asked money-back guarantee, you can invest with complete confidence. Your Colorado paradise with world-class hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation is waiting - will you answer the call?

Don't wait - prime Colorado mountain property at this price won't last long.

Hit the trail. Own the view. Claim your freedom.

Own the land that lets you breathe deeper, roam wider, and live louder - off the grid, but right in your element.

Farm Maps & Attachments

More Farm Details

Owner Will Finance
Residential Zoning
Flat Terrain
Dirt Road Access
Estimated Annual Taxes
$128
Assessor Parcel Number (APN)
70334660
FARMFLIP ID
395777
Farm features, descriptions, details, directions, sales history, photos, maps, boundaries and files are deemed reliable and provided "as is" without guarantee, warranty, representation, expressed or implied by FARMFLIP or its advertisers, and is subject to errors, omissions, sale or withdrawal. Buyers should exercise their own due diligence when purchasing real estate. FARMFLIP is not a party to any portion of the real estate transaction between a buyer and seller on this site. Contact the seller directly regarding this listing.