Amalia Elk Haven

Farm Description

Amalia Elk Haven is a 91-acre recreational ranch just minutes from Colorado, offering sweeping Sangre de Cristo mountain views, a remodeled 2 bed/2 bath cabin, 1 bed/1 bath guest studio, and large storage shed, with food plots, multiple water sources and four transferable Eplus elk tags. Located near the Valle Vidal, Vermejo Park Ranch, and the Rio Costilla fishery, this is truly a sportsman's paradise.

Land

The ranch spans 91 deeded acres and offers a diverse mix of open pasture, wooded draws, and gently rolling elevations. The terrain supports both livestock and wildlife with cross-fenced pastures and excellent natural cover. A permitted domestic well supplies water year-round, supplemented by a year-round pond, two seasonal dirt tanks, and Jarocito Creek, which flows across the property and adds valuable riparian habitat. Food plots have been strategically placed to enhance big game movement, and the views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are unobstructed and dramatic. The ranch borders land owned by the Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association, preserving privacy and maintaining a direct connection to a historic ranching legacy.

Improvements

The main residence is a 1,166 sq ft two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin featuring rustic woodwork, updated finishes, a steel roof, propane furnace, and tiled floors throughout. The home has been recently remodeled and is fully functional, though some minor finish work remains. A separate one-bedroom, one-bathroom guest studio offers flexible lodging for friends, family, or potential rental income, while a metal pole barn provides space for equipment storage, hay, or livestock shelter.

Recreation

The ranch receives four private land elk authorizations annually through the New Mexico Eplus program, including two bull tags and two cow tags in 2025, making this an ideal base for serious hunters or outfitters. These tags will convey to the new owner with a timely sale. Located in the Special Management Zone of Unit 55A, the ranch is situated in a highly sought-after area known for strong elk populations, consistent movement corridors, and top-tier antler growth. In addition, the property is eligible for over-the-counter landowner tags for mule deer, black bear, and Merriam's turkey. Always check the latest regulations through Nmdgf.

Habitat improvements include food plots, natural browse, surface water, and an elevated Redneck Blind strategically placed along a game travel corridor. Nearby Valle Vidal offers one of New Mexico's most coveted public land elk hunts, with once-in-a-lifetime archery and rifle bull tags awarded through the draw. This combination of elite public and private hunting access is extremely rare and makes Amalia Elk Haven uniquely positioned for hunting enthusiasts.

Just minutes away from the ranch, the Rio Costilla and Costilla Park provide outstanding fly-fishing opportunities for native Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout. These scenic waters are tightly managed for conservation and offer an authentic northern New Mexico angling experience.

Agriculture

The land is well-suited to seasonal cattle grazing and is currently leased to generate supplemental income. Cross-fenced pastures allow for rotational grazing, while natural forage and surface water reduce maintenance requirements. The existing barn infrastructure provides support for small-scale or recreational ranching.

Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources

A permitted domestic well and septic system serve both homes on the property. Additional water sources include a stocked pond, two seasonal dirt tanks, and Jarocito Creek, which flows through the land and supports both livestock and wildlife habitat.

General Operations

This is a turn-key recreational and working ranch, with systems in place for both livestock and hunting use. Income is currently generated from seasonal cattle leases and the allocation of four annual elk tags through the Eplus program. Fencing, water systems, food plots, and lodging are already established, making this property immediately usable as a hunting basecamp, outfitting operation, private retreat, or headquarters for a small ranch.

Region & Climate

Amalia Elk Haven sits at approximately 8,100 feet in elevation in northern Taos County, New Mexico. The area experiences a true four-season mountain climate, with warm summers, cool nights, and reliable winter snowfall. Average annual precipitation ranges from 16 to 20 inches, with summer monsoon rains and snowpack feeding the region's creeks and aquifers. The surrounding area offers access to Valle Vidal, Carson National Forest, Vermejo Park Ranch, and other large tracts of public land. Taos Ski Valley, Red River, and Angel Fire provide downhill skiing, hiking, biking and festivals within 60 to 90 minutes.

Location

Amalia Elk Haven is located off Arellano Road in northern Taos County, just 5 miles south of the Colorado border and 60 miles north of Taos, New Mexico. The property enjoys year-round access via county-maintained roads. Taos Regional Airport is roughly one hour away, while Santa Fe is 2.5 hours to the south and provides additional commercial air service. Nearby landmarks include Valle Vidal, Vermejo Park Ranch, the Rio Costilla fishery, and Costilla Park-all within a short drive. This is a prime location for buyers seeking privacy without sacrificing access to world-class recreation and essential amenities.