San Miguel 700

Exceptional private ranch bordering the Santa Fe National Forest, just 3 miles west of I-25 and about an hour from Santa Fe. Features dramatic views, rock outcroppings, native grasslands, a scenic mesa, and views of Starvation Peak. A permitted 500-foot well produces 15+ GPM and is solar-powered. Improvements include fencing and an unfinished metal outbuilding. Excellent for recreation, wildlife viewing, hunting, and dark-sky stargazing.

Land

Offering 706.4 +/- acres of deeded land, this exceptional ranch presents a rare opportunity to own a substantial tract of private property adjoining more than 26,000 acres of Santa Fe National Forest. With the national forest forming the southern boundary and the property being the last private tract on the road before entering the forest, the ranch provides an extraordinary combination of privacy, recreation, and accessibility.
Located approximately two miles southwest of Interstate 25 and about one hour from Santa Fe, the property encompasses a diverse and scenic landscape of dramatic canyons, towering rock formations, rolling native grasslands, and a prominent mesa with panoramic views, including Starvation Peak. The expansive acreage offers exceptional opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, ATV recreation, hunting, camping, wildlife viewing, and world-class dark-sky stargazing.
A permitted 500-foot private well produces more than 15 gallons per minute of excellent-quality water and is equipped with a solar-powered pump and array. Electricity is available through the local rural electric cooperative, with utility poles located on neighboring properties to the north. Portions of the ranch feature south-facing slopes, offering excellent potential for a future solar-power system.
The property appears largely untouched by recent development, providing a rare opportunity to create a private retreat or custom ranch estate from the ground up. Numerous potential building sites take advantage of the varied terrain and expansive views. Remnants of historic structures and livestock corrals remain throughout the property, adding character and a sense of history.
Given its substantial acreage, scenic terrain, proximity to Santa Fe, and direct access to the national forest, the property may also offer potential for future subdivision or development into multiple high-end residential parcels, subject to applicable zoning, subdivision regulations, water rights, and governmental approvals.
This is a truly exceptional offering for those seeking a private ranch, recreational retreat, legacy property, or potential development opportunity in one of Northern New Mexico’s most desirable natural settings.

Improvements

Private permitted well approximately 500 feet deep.

Produces 15+ gallons per minute.
Excellent-quality water.
Solar-powered pump and solar array.
One newer unfinished metal outbuilding with metal siding and roof.
Perimeter fencing in mixed (fair to good) condition.
No utility power connected; power poles on adjacent property to the north.
No septic system on the property; several local contractors in the area that install septic systems
No internet; Starlink is the best option in the area.

Recreation

The ranch’s expansive acreage, open terrain, and exceptionally low-density surroundings create ideal conditions for stargazing, with remarkably dark skies and unobstructed views of the night sky.
Starvation Peak, a prominent Northern New Mexico landmark, is approximately one mile west of the property. Rich in regional history, the peak served as an important landmark along the historic Santa Fe Trail.
The nearby community of Bernal offers a glimpse of rural New Mexico character, with a community center and charming historic church. The former Bernal Store also remains an interesting local landmark.
 
With the Santa Fe National Forest directly bordering the property’s southern boundary, owners have immediate access to over 26,000 acres of public lands for hiking, horseback riding, off-road recreation, camping, hunting, and exploration. Another portion of the Santa Fe National Forest and Pecos Wilderness are also within a short drive.
The surrounding region offers outstanding recreational opportunities, including fishing on the Pecos, San Juan, and Rio Chama Rivers, as well as numerous nearby lakes. Winter recreation is equally impressive, with Ski Santa Fe, Taos Ski Valley, Wolf Creek, and Purgatory all within a few hours driving distance.
Northern New Mexico is renowned for its art, culture, history, and outdoor recreation. Museums, galleries, historic communities, national parks, and monuments are abundant throughout the region, offering virtually endless opportunities for exploration.
The property is located within New Mexico Game & Fish Game Management Unit 43. The current owner has not previously applied for elk permits through the NMDGF EPLUS program; therefore, there is no established history of potential permit allocation for the property. The new owner would need to apply directly with NMDGF to determine eligibility and applicable requirements. Private-land deer tags may also be available through the public draw. Buyers should consult current NMDGF regulations and hunting publications for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Agriculture

Vegetation: Native grasses, juniper, piñon pine, oak brush, and ponderosa pine.
No Livestock has been on the property for several years

Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources

To be conveyed to the buyer if presently held

General Operations

The property has remained largely vacant and undisturbed, with no recent livestock use or significant human activity, preserving its natural character, privacy, and sense of seclusion.

Region & Climate

Bernal, NM, has a mild, dry, semi-arid continental climate characterized by abundant sunshine, low humidity, significant temperature swings between day and night, and a summer-focused precipitation pattern from thunderstorms. Temperatures vary greatly by elevation and time of year, with hot summers, cold winters, and a relatively short, 120-160 day frost-free period.
The region receives light precipitation, averaging about 12-16 inches annually, with a distinct peak during the summer months due to thunderstorms.
The climate is marked by abundant sunshine and low relative humidity, which contributes to the large diurnal (daily) temperature range.
Summers have temperatures frequently rising averaging 89°F, while winters average temperatures dropping to around 40°F.
            Characterized by abundant sunshine, low humidity, temperature swings between day and night, and a summer-focused precipitation pattern from thunderstorms. Temperatures vary greatly by elevation and time of year, with mild to hot summers and cold winters. The region receives light precipitation, averaging about 12-16 inches annually, with a distinct peak during the summer months due to thunderstorms.

History

With its rich history, Starvation Peak served as a major landmark along the Santa Fe Trail.
A short 50 Miles from the famous square in Santa Fe
Both Santa Fe and Albuquerque have major airports to serve with both domestic and international flights.
Please call or email today for more information on this unique property, to answer any questions you might have, and to schedule a qualified showing. Financial verification is required prior to all showings. Co-brokers welcome

Location

A short 50 Miles from the famous square in Santa Fe
A short 17 miles from Las Vegas, NM  along Interstate 40, which has fuel, groceries, motels and other  necessities.
Area communities driving distance
Las Vegas New Mexico: 17 miles
Santa Fe, New Mexico: 50 miles
Albuquerque: 100 miles
Santa Fe Ski Area 70 miles
Albuquerque has a major airport to serve with both domestic and international flights.