Wyoming Equestrian Estate
Uinta County
BLACKS FORK RIVER ESTATE
Nestled at the end of the road, this 102± acre equestrian-focused estate offers an unparalleled blend of seclusion and convenience—minutes from the historic charm of Fort Bridger. With lush, irrigated hay meadows and nearly half a mile of the renowned Blacks Fork River trout fishery meandering through its grounds, the property offers four seasons of recreation, with numerous opportunities for further development and improvements.
The centerpiece of the property is a stunning 6,260± square-foot custom home, positioned to overlook a tranquil pond, manicured lawns, and verdant pastures. Nearby, a custom-built barn features stalls with individual outdoor runs, and convenient equipment and hay storage. An attached 880-square-foot manager suite provides a full complement of amenities for comfortable living.
The property’s excellent water rights support a productive hay operation and access to live water in the majority of the pastures ensuring seamless management. Numerous building sites offer room for training facilities, other enhancements, or the potential for subdivision. This grand property presents a rare opportunity to own a beautifully designed, family legacy estate.
This property is sold turnkey fully furnished with all key equipment.
Please inquire with Listing Broker Sam Sanders for details.
This equestrian estate is located about three-quarters of a mile from the town of Fort Bridger and the Fort Bridger Historic Site in Uinta County, Wyoming.
Access to the property from Fort Bridger is via a graveled, graded, and drained county-maintained road except for the last one-half mile, which is built and maintained by the seller.
From Exit 34, the town of Fort Bridger is conveniently located approximately two miles from Interstate 80.
Evanston, a 40-minute drive from the estate, has a jet-capable airport with a full-time FBO that was put to the test during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games when a no-fly zone was imposed over the entire Salt Lake City area. Many well-heeled spectators, including European royalty, chose to fly into Evanston and take the 45-minute limo ride to Park City.
In addition, there is a paved, light-jet capable runway about 20 minutes outside of Fort Bridger.
Approximate distances to selected destinations from the estate:
Evanston, WY Kemmerer, WY Green River, WY Dutch John – Flaming Gorge, UT Rock Springs, WY Park City, UT Salt Lake City, UT Vernal, UT Pinedale, WY Jackson Hole, WY |
38 Miles |
The Bridger Valley has a population of about 5,760 people among the towns of Fort Bridger, Urie, Lyman, and Mountain View.
Fort Bridger, the nearest town to the property, is home to the Fort Bridger Historic Site. The grounds of this state park are sprinkled with aspen and cottonwood trees and beautifully restored buildings that date from the mid to late 1800s. “The Fort Bridger Rendezvous”, held each year on Labor Day Weekend, is the largest modern-day mountain man rendezvous in Wyoming. This small community also has a convenience store and gas station, post office, restaurant, bar, and several churches.
The Bridger Valley town of Mountain View is about six miles away from the estate. Mountain View has excellent schools with kindergarten through high school grades and a vocational education program. The town also features a large modern grocery and hardware store, several convenience stores, a bank, gas stations, restaurants, and a bowling alley. There is also a senior citizen center, and a daycare facility for children.
Bridger Valley is a major gateway to the Wasatch and Ashley National Forests, the 456,000-acre High Uintas Wilderness Area, and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. These convenient forest and wilderness resources offer a full range of year-round recreational opportunities, all within about a 60-mile radius of the estate. From hiking, rock climbing, off-roading, mountain biking, kayaking & boating, fishing, and horseback riding in the summer, to snowmobiling, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic skiing in the winter, the outdoor enthusiast will have abundant opportunities right in your backyard.
AREA ATTRACTIONS
Wyoming Downs Racetrack – Evanston, WY
Rodeos and County Fair – Uinta County Fairgrounds
Purple Sage Golf Course – Evanston, WY
Fossil Island Golf Course – Kemmerer, WY
HISTORIC SITES & MUSEUMS
Roundhouse & Railyards – Evanston, WY
Uinta County Museum – Evanston, WY
Fort Bridger State Historic Site
Piedmont Charcoal Kilns State Historic Site
MUSIC & FESTIVALS
Fort Bridger Mountain Man Rendezvous
Oyster Ridge Music Festival – Kemmerer, WY
Grand Teton Music Festival – Jackson Hole, WY
HIKING, CLIMBING & WATER PURSUITS
Bear River Greenway & State Park – Evanston, WY
Fossil Butte National Monument – Kemmerer, WY
Dinosaur National Monument – Vernal, UT
Grand Teton National Park – Jackson Hole, WY
Wind River Range
High Unitas Wilderness – Northeastern Utah
Lake Viva Naughton – Kemmerer, WY
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
SKIING & WINTER SPORTS
Jackson Hole, WY
Salt Lake City & Park City Area Ski Resorts
Summer Average Highs: 75.0 – 83.7 F degrees
Summer Average Lows: 41.8 – 83.7 F degrees
Winter Average Highs: 31.8 – 43.0 F degrees
Winter Average Lows: 9.5 – 18.7 F degrees
Rain: Averages 8.3 inches of rain annually
Snow: Averages 55 inches of snow annually
Deeded Acreage & Ranch Amenities
• 102± Deeded Acres
• .5+ miles of Blacks Fork River
• .5+ miles of Austin Canal
• Mixed topography of riparian area, open meadows, and timber with a mixture of pines, aspen, and cottonwoods.
The deeded land consists of approximately 102 surveyed acres in a rectangular shape with about 2,640′ (1/2 mile) running east to west, and about 1,683′ (over 1/4 mile) running north to south.
The land consists of almost all flood-irrigated hay meadows interspersed with large stands of cottonwood trees and willows along the river and other waterways.
Productivity
The estate includes 40 acres of flood-irrigated hay meadows that produce between 1 to 1.5 tons per acre of horse-quality grass hay. The hay primarily consists of an excellent timothy-brome mix.The seller is willing to lease back the agricultural operation, and alternately harvest the hay crop and graze the land in accordance with best practices.
MAIN RESIDENCE
The centerpiece of the property is a custom-designed 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom home with a vaulted great room, boasting soaring 16-foot ceilings, that seamlessly integrates the kitchen, breakfast area, formal dining, and living room. Natural light pours in through energy-efficient Pella windows, offering expansive views of the river-fed pond, lush pastures, and surrounding stands of mature willow and cottonwood trees.
The home is filled with thoughtful craftsman details from oversized hardwood doors throughout to beautiful hardwood cabinetry, double-thickness granite countertops, and numerous built-ins.
The main floor features a gorgeous mix of travertine tile and skip-sawn hickory hardwood flooring. Sit in front of the expansive masonry fireplace and serve guests from the wet bar’s wine fridge or the full bar, or enjoy a breathtaking view of the stars from the deck’s rocking chairs or the sheltered hot tub.
The main floor also features a mudroom with an attached 3/4 bathroom, as well as three spacious bedrooms, each with its own full ensuite bathroom, providing unparalleled comfort and privacy. The primary suite features a walk-in closet and an elegantly appointed en suite bathroom with marble accents and a soaking tub with a cozy fireplace.
The second floor features plush carpet throughout and overlooks the great room. Here, you’ll find the fourth bedroom with its ensuite bathroom, along with a versatile layout comprising a game area, sitting room, office, and exercise room. The exercise room even offers additional sleeping options, as does an additional carpeted storage area.
The attached oversized four-car garage is fully insulated and heated. Quality storage solutions and an easy-maintenance epoxy-finished floor complete with a drain system add to the convenience. Outside, beautifully manicured lawns await, kept lush by a fully automated sprinkler system.
CLICK TO VIEW VIRTUAL HOME TOUR
Residence: 6,260 Square Feet
Main Level 4,365 square feet
Upper Level 1,895 square feet
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
- Natural gas forced-air heat via three separate furnaces;
- Central air conditioning, rarely needed at this 6,700′ elevation;
- Quality 2×6 construction and premium foam insulation;
- Copper plumbing throughout.
BARN & MANAGER APARTMENT
Ideally located close to the primary residence, the custom-built barn was constructed with convenience in mind and features equestrian and staff amenities under one roof. The barn and apartment are fully insulated, and the apartment and tack area are heated by electricity. If the new buyer so chooses, the heat can be converted to natural gas. Located near the barn is a 60-foot round pen as well as numerous pastures for easy turnout.
CLICK TO VIEW VIRTUAL BARN TOUR
Barn and Apartment |
Stall Dimensions |
Apartment 880 square feet |
Stalls 1 & 2 13′ x 12.5′ Stall 3 13′ x 13.75′ |
TALL STORAGE
Ideal for equipment storage, additional hay storage, or any other needs you may have, this area boasts 12-foot-tall ceilings, spans 58 feet in length for a total of 865 square feet. Access is provided by 10′ x 10′ Martin garage doors with automatic openers on each end, and has an opening to the barn area in the middle.
BARN AREA
The barn features three oversized indoor Priefert stalls, each equipped with built-in powder-coated slow feeders, easy-feed hay doors, built-in grain buckets, rubber floor mats, and Behlen heated waterers. Sliding exterior barn doors open to attached runs ranging from 15′ x 10′ to 15′ x 12.5′.
A Martin garage door opens to a 12.25-foot alleyway running in front of the stalls, providing easy access with equipment. Across the alley from the stall fronts is a convenient 1,380-square-foot hay storage area with 10-foot tall ceilings, offering plenty of room to maneuver.
TACK AREA
The tack area features a mudroom, 1/2 bath, and a combination tack and storage room just off the main breezeway in front of the stalls.
MANAGER APARTMENT
Comfort and convenience are evident in the self-contained 880-square-foot one-bedroom apartment, boasting modern amenities and lofted ceilings. The full kitchen features bar seating and seamlessly flows into an open-concept living room, complete with a cozy wood stove. An adjacent laundry room offers additional storage and utility. The spacious bedroom, complete with a 3/4 bathroom ensuite, is perfect for a barn manager, trainer, or property caretaker. The space features large closets and ample storage throughout. With a separate entrance and foyer, as well as a second entrance directly accessible from the barn area, the apartment offers both privacy and accessibility.
POND
RIVER BRIDGE
Just beyond the residence and pond is a river bridge with a well-built deck and side rails. The bridge is capable of handling farm equipment and full-size trucks.
EQUIPMENT STORAGE
LOAFING SHED
A large loafing shed is located at the far end of the pasture that is closest to the house.
ROUND PEN
Located close to the barn and the primary residence is a 60-foot round pen and numerous pastures.
Conveniently located three-quarters of a mile outside the town of Fort Bridger, this small town is part of a trio of towns including Lyman and Mountain View that are less than 10 minutes apart. The local community has a healthy ranch culture, with brandings, ropings, and charming family-oriented rodeo events like the Bridger Valley Pioneer Days Rodeo.
Approximately thirty miles from the estate, you’ll find the trailheads of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and the High Uintas Wilderness, offering some of the region’s most exceptional wilderness trails for horseback riding. Convenient trailer access is available to several trailheads. One noteworthy option is the stunning vistas and towering mountains of Upper Red Castle Lake—a 32-mile drive from the property. This 22.8-mile ride is best enjoyed from June through October. There are two lake vistas earlier on the trail if you want to cut the trail into a shorter 13-mile or 19-mile ride.
If your preference leans towards the winners’ circle and the thrill of racehorses, you’ll find the Wyoming Downs just a 38-mile drive from Blacks Fork River Estate. Wyoming Downs Racetrack, the largest and only privately owned racetrack in the state, hosts a bustling live racing season. For those with an interest in bloodstock, the thriving Wyoming Bred Racehorse Program provides lucrative opportunities for a breeding program at Blacks Forks River Estate.
Bridger Valley is a major gateway to the Wasatch and Ashley National Forests, the 456,000-acre High Uintas Wilderness Area, and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. These convenient forest and wilderness resources offer a full range of year-round recreational opportunities, all within about a 60-mile radius of the estate. Hiking, rock climbing, off-roading, mountain biking, kayaking & boating, fishing, and horseback riding are abundant and all within a couple of hours of the estate.
In the winter, the options are endless –snowmobiling, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and nordic skiing are all within a short drive. World-class skiing and winter sports are available in Jackson Hole, Salt Lake City, and Park City. Home of the 2002 Winter Olympics and possibly the 2034 Olympics, Park City offers world-class facilities for training, competitions, and public recreation.
HIKING, CLIMBING & WATER PURSUITS
Bear River Greenway & State Park- Evanston
Fossil Butte National Monument – Kemmerer, WY
Dinosaur National Monument – Vernal, UT
Grand Teton National Park – Jackson Hole, WY
Wind River Range
High Unitas Wilderness – Northeastern Utah
Lake Viva Naughton – Kemmerer, WY
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
GOLF
Purple Sage Golf Course – Evanston, WY
Fossil Island Golf Course – Kemmerer, WY
SKIING & WINTER SPORTS
Jackson Hole, WY
Salt Lake City & Park City Area Ski Resorts
The area surrounding Fort Bridger, WY, is a prime destination for hunting enthusiasts, offering a diverse and rugged landscape ideal for a variety of game species. The region features expansive high plains, rolling hills, and the scenic Uinta Mountains, creating a range of habitats that support abundant wildlife.
Hunters in the area can pursue an array of game species. The region is particularly noted for its healthy populations of mule deer and elk, with the latter often found in the higher elevations of the Uinta Mountains. Pronghorn antelope roam the open plains, providing an exciting challenge for hunters. Black bears and mountain lions can also be found in the forested areas, offering more thrilling pursuits.
Game management units in the area are well-regulated, ensuring sustainable hunting practices and healthy wildlife populations. Local guides and outfitters are available to assist both novice and experienced hunters, providing expert knowledge of the terrain and wildlife patterns.
For those interested in upland game bird hunting, the Fort Bridger region offers excellent opportunities. Sage grouse, pheasant, and chukar partridge are commonly found in the area. Additionally, the region’s rivers and streams attract a variety of waterfowl, enhancing the diverse hunting experience.
The best hunting seasons vary by species, with big game hunting typically peaking in the fall months. It is advisable for hunters to check with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for specific regulations, licenses, and permits required for hunting in the area.
Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of big game hunting or the thrill of pursuing upland birds, the area surrounding Fort Bridger, WY, provides an unforgettable outdoor experience set against the backdrop of Wyoming’s wild and picturesque landscape.
ON-PROPERTY
BLACKS FORK RIVER
Blacks Fork River meanders through the estate for over a half-mile, offering the desirable aesthetic benefits of year-round live water and productive trout fishing.
AUSTIN CANAL
The Austin Canal diverts water out of the Blacks Fork River near the southeast corner of the estate and traverses the property for over a half-mile. The sellers report that fishing in the canal is even better than in the river. There is a bridge over the Austin Canal that will accommodate four-wheelers and side-by-sides, and a solid-bottom ford for larger vehicles.
TROUT POND
Situated between the house and the river, the river-fed pond reaches depths of over 20 feet at its deepest point, providing an ideal environment for fish to overwinter. The pond offers the potential for easy trout stocking.
For those wishing to venture off the property, the area surrounding Blacks Fork River Estate offers a superb fishing experience, set against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming’s diverse landscape. The region is home to a variety of pristine rivers, streams, and lakes that provide excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.
Blacks Fork River offers clear waters and abundant fish populations. The river is home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. The riffles and deep pools offer ideal spots for fly fishing, with ample opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish.
The Uinta Mountains to the south of Fort Bridger host numerous alpine lakes and streams. These high-altitude waters are teeming with brook trout and cutthroat trout, offering a serene and rewarding fishing adventure. The scenic beauty of the mountain landscape, combined with the tranquility of the remote fishing spots, makes for an unforgettable experience.
Ice fishing enthusiasts will find the winter months particularly appealing. The region’s lakes, such as Sulphur Creek Reservoir, freeze over, providing excellent conditions for ice fishing. Anglers can expect to catch species like kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and splake in these icy waters.
Fishing regulations and seasons vary by location and species, so it’s important for anglers to check with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for specific rules, licenses, and permits required for fishing in the Fort Bridger area.
Whether you’re casting a line in the pond, into Blacks Fork River, or venturing into the mountains, the estate would make a great homebase for fishing enthusiasts. With its rich fish populations and breathtaking scenery, this region promises an exceptional fishing experience.
The majority of the property is covered by a territorial irrigation water right from the Blacks Fork River with a priority date of May 15, 1886.
The estate also has part of a Blacks Fork River irrigation water right with a priority date of September 3, 1895. In addition, there is a storage water right for about 33 acre-feet of water in the Meeks Cabin Dam located on the upper Blacks Fork River.
The sellers will convey the property without reservation, making no representation as to the quantity or quality of any mineral or other sub-surface property rights that may or may not be appurtenant.
All utilities are underground. Bridger Valley Electric provides electricity and high-speed internet, and phone service (including cellular) is provided by Union Telephone. Dominion Energy supplies natural gas. Domestic water comes from a private well, and the sewer is septic. Irrigation water for the landscaping around the house and barn comes from two shallow wells dedicated to the fully automatic sprinkler system.
REAL ESTATE TAXES
Wyoming is known for its real estate tax benefits, including having one of the lowest property tax rates in the United States. According to Bloomberg Wealth Management magazine:
“Wyoming consistently is rated as the #1 Tax Friendly State in America.”
POTENTIAL WYOMING TAX BENEFITS
- No state income tax on personal or corporate income
- No state inheritance tax or estate tax
- No state excise taxes on gas or food
- No tax on the sale of real estate
- No state capital gains tax
- Dynasty trusts are permitted to shelter assets from generation to generation
- Wyoming Close LLC statute
- No tax on out-of-state retirement income
- No state gift tax
- No intangible taxes on financial assets
- No personal property tax on property held for personal use
- No tax on individual mineral interest
- Lower property taxes based on the assessed value
POTENTIAL AGRICULTURAL TAX BENEFITS
- Reduced property tax on agricultural land
- Potential conservation easement
- Income tax deductions related to expenses, improvements, and equipment
- USDA programs
- Conservation and clean energy programs
This 102± acre equestrian estate presents an attractive investment opportunity for several compelling reasons. The property offers a rare combination of privacy and easy access to amenities. Located just minutes from the historic town of Fort Bridger and major recreational areas, it serves as a peaceful retreat without being isolated. The estate’s proximity to major highways and Evanston’s airport, which high-profile individuals have used during events like the Winter Olympics, ensures ease of travel and connectivity, adding to its prestige.
The lush, irrigated hay meadows and nearly half a mile of the Blacks Fork River provide stunning views and excellent opportunities for trout fishing. The fertile land and water rights support a productive hay operation, making it ideal for agricultural pursuits.
The estate offers year-round enjoyment with activities suited for every season, ensuring continuous value and enjoyment. Surrounded by numerous recreational options, including hiking, rock climbing, off-roading, mountain biking, kayaking, boating, fishing, and horseback riding, the property takes full advantage of the area’s four distinct seasons. In winter, activities like snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding are easily accessible. The proximity to world-class skiing and resort destinations like Jackson Hole and Park City adds significant appeal.
The estate features a luxurious 6,260± square-foot custom home overlooking a pond and manicured lawns. Additionally, the custom-built barn, equipment storage, and an 880-square-foot manager’s suite provide top-notch equestrian and staff amenities.
With excellent water rights and numerous additional potential building sites, there is ample opportunity for further development, including training facilities or even subdivision.
The estate is sold fully furnished and equipped, making it a hassle-free acquisition for the buyer.
Overall, this property is an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a luxurious, well-appointed, and versatile estate that offers both a peaceful retreat and active lifestyle options.
OFFERING PRICE and CONDITIONS OF SALE
- All offers to purchase or letters of intent must be in writing and accompanied by an earnest money deposit in the amount of $200,000;
- Earnest money deposits will be placed in escrow with First American Title Company of Evanston, Wyoming;
- All Prospective Buyers must demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Seller absolute financial capability to purchase the Ranch prior to scheduling an inspection of the property;
- The Seller will provide and pay for a standard owner’s title insurance policy issued by First American Title Company of Evanston, Wyoming. Any endorsements requested by the Buyer or any lender will be at Buyer’s expense. Title to the real property will be conveyed by special warranty deed;
- Inventory of any personal property will be transferred via a separate Bill of Sale at Closing;
- All of the water rights and irrigation company water shares controlled by the Seller will be transferred to the Buyer at Closing, and all of the mineral rights that the Seller actually owns will be conveyed to the Buyer at Closing;
- Buyers’ Brokers are welcome and invited to contact Sam Sanders in our Salt Lake City Office for information regarding Cooperation Policies.
This entire Offering is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by the Seller. Information regarding land classifications, acreages, carrying capacities, crop yields, potential profits, etc., are intended only as general guidelines and have been obtained from sources deemed reliable; however, accuracy is not warranted or guaranteed by the Seller or Swan Land Company. Prospective Buyers should verify all information to their sole and complete satisfaction.
TERMS OF INSPECTION
The Seller is making known to all potential purchasers that there may be variations between the property lines and the location of the existing fence boundary lines on Blacks Fork River Estate. The Seller makes no warranties with regard to the location of the fence lines in relationship to the property lines, nor does the Seller make any warranties or representations with regard to the specific acreage within the fenced property lines.
The Seller is selling Blacks Fork River Estate in an “as is” condition which includes the location of the fences as they now exist. Boundaries shown on any accompanying maps are approximate. The maps are not to scale and are for orientation purposes only. The accuracy of the maps and information portrayed thereon is not guaranteed nor warranted.
Sam R. Sanders
Suggested Properties
McGuire Spring Creek Ranch
- 3,843 Deeded
- $9,950,000
NF Ranch on the Musselshell River
- 4,531 Deeded
- $7,695,000
Willow View Ranch
- 3,419 Deeded
- $5,995,000