Niccoli Ranch

The Niccoli Ranch, located just west of Crested Butte South, contains some of the most spectacular scenery and pastureland found in Gunnison County. The irrigated hay meadows stair step down to meet the East River and the Slate River at the north end of the property. The Niccoli Ranch produces approximately 100 tons of hay seasonally, and accommodates 35 pair of cow calves. After the hay is cut in late July, the land is available for grazing cattle.

The ranch makes up the “oh my god” view visible from the trip north to Crested Butte, just beyond Round Mountain. Made up of two parcels on the west and east sides of the West Elk Scenic Byway, 145 of the western acreage was preserved by a conservation agreement in 2001. In 2006, the Crested Butte Land Trust preserved an additional 37 acres. The ranch continues to be operated as a single working ranch.