Molares Ranch

McKinley Elk Ranch

McKinley Elk Ranch encompasses approximately 11,534.6 contiguous deeded acres in McKinley County, New Mexico. Located within Game Management Unit 7, this expansive ranch offers exceptional recreational and hunting opportunities, extensive wildlife habitat, and the privacy associated with large landholdings in western New Mexico.

Situated at elevations ranging from approximately 6,800 to 7,100 feet, the ranch features a diverse high-desert landscape consisting of open mesas, native grasslands, sagebrush, saltbush, juniper, and impressive rock formations. The property also contains significant Native American archaeological sites situated along an elevated mesa, adding historical and cultural significance to the ranch.

A notable improvement to the property is a newly constructed residence completed in 2026, featuring two bedrooms, one bathroom, a sleeping loft, and a garage. The residence is equipped with a new solar power system and backup generator, providing modern off-grid accommodations for ranch owners, guests, and hunting parties.

McKinley Elk Ranch is surrounded primarily by large landholdings, including the Fernandez Company Ranch and Navajo Nation lands. The ranch also adjoins three separate New Mexico State Trust Land tracts totaling approximately 1,800 acres.

With its substantial deeded acreage, established water infrastructure, new residence, perimeter fencing, and desirable hunting opportunities, McKinley Elk Ranch presents an attractive opportunity for recreational buyers, sportsmen, and land investors seeking a sizable New Mexico ranch.
Land and Terrain
The ranch consists of approximately 11,534.6 deeded acres characterized by rolling mesas, open valleys, rocky ridgelines, and expansive high-desert terrain. Vegetation includes native grasses, sagebrush, saltbush, juniper, and other indigenous plant species that provide habitat for elk, mule deer, and other wildlife.

Elevations range from approximately 6,800 to 7,100 feet, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The property's diverse terrain, natural cover, and established water sources contribute to its wildlife habitat and recreational appeal.

The ranch is fully perimeter fenced and features an internal road system providing access throughout much of the property.
Water Resources
McKinley Elk Ranch benefits from an established water infrastructure consisting of five wells, two water storage tanks, and twelve earthen stock tanks strategically located throughout the property.

Three solar-powered wells
One windmill-operated well
One submersible well with a storage tank
Two additional water storage tanks
Twelve earthen stock tanks designed to capture and retain seasonal runoff

The earthen tanks provide additional seasonal water sources during periods of sufficient precipitation, particularly throughout the summer monsoon season. The combination of developed wells and stock tanks supports wildlife and potential livestock use throughout the ranch.
Improvements
McKinley Elk Ranch features a newly constructed residence completed in 2026, providing comfortable accommodations for ranch owners, guests, and hunting parties. The residence includes two bedrooms, one bathroom, a sleeping loft for additional accommodations, and a garage.

The residence is supported by a new solar power system with a backup generator, providing off-grid electricity for everyday use.

Additional ranch improvements include perimeter fencing, an established internal road system, developed water facilities, and multiple stock tanks.

Access to the ranch is provided by paved public roads, followed by approximately four miles of maintained gravel road.
Hunting and Wildlife
McKinley Elk Ranch is located within New Mexico Game Management Unit 7 and offers opportunities for elk and mule deer hunting.

The ranch is situated within the New Mexico Department of Wildlife's EPLUS Secondary Management Zone. Under the applicable EPLUS regulations, private-land elk licenses are available over the counter through the ranch's designated code, without a numerical limit on qualifying licenses.

Private-land mule deer hunting licenses are also available over the counter, subject to applicable regulations and season restrictions.

The ranch's substantial acreage, varied topography, native vegetation, and developed water resources provide favorable habitat for elk, mule deer, and other native wildlife species.

All hunting opportunities and license availability are subject to current New Mexico Department of Wildlife regulations.
Recreation
In addition to its hunting opportunities, McKinley Elk Ranch offers extensive recreational possibilities, including hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, photography, and exploration of the property's distinctive terrain.

The ranch contains significant Native American archaeological features, reflecting the area's cultural history. These sites add a unique dimension to the property and should be preserved and respected in accordance with applicable laws.

Nearby recreational and cultural destinations include Chaco Culture National Historical Park, El Morro National Monument, and the Santa Fe National Forest.
Location and Access
McKinley Elk Ranch is located in western New Mexico, offering the privacy of a remote ranch setting while maintaining access to regional communities, commercial services, and airports.
DestinationApproximate Distance / Drive TimeGrants, New Mexico51 miles / 55 minutesFarmington, New Mexico113 miles / 1 hour 15 minutesAlbuquerque, New Mexico128 miles / 2 hours 3 minutesRio Rancho, New Mexico116 miles / 2 hours 4 minutesGrants-Milan Municipal Airport49 miles / 53 minutesAlbuquerque International Sunport2 hours 5 minutes Summary
McKinley Elk Ranch represents an opportunity to acquire over 11,500 contiguous deeded acres in western New Mexico. Its combination of extensive private acreage, established water improvements, perimeter fencing, and elk and mule deer hunting opportunities makes it a compelling recreational ranch offering.

The addition of a newly constructed 2026 residence, complete with two bedrooms, one bathroom, a sleeping loft, garage, and new solar power system with backup generator, further enhances the property's appeal as a recreational retreat or ranch headquarters.

Surrounded by large landholdings and characterized by striking high-desert scenery, McKinley Elk Ranch offers the seclusion, recreational diversity, and long-term ownership potential sought by buyers of substantial western ranch properties.