Painted Mountain Ranch
Painted Mountain Ranch captures the essence of Colorado’s Western Slopewhere mountain wilderness, productive land, and private water converge. Encompassing 160 deeded acres just outside Paonia, the ranch combines agricultural capability with exceptional recreational opportunity. With nearly a mile and a half of Minnesota Creek, direct access to thousands of acres of adjoining public lands, and a full complement of off-grid improvements, the property offers both independence and comfort. Surrounded by mountain views and abundant wildlife, this is a legacy holding designed for those who value privacy, self-sufficiency, and the Colorado lifestyle.
Key Features:
Land & Water: Backed by 2,925 acres of BLM and bordered by 18,221 acres of National Forest; 1.35 miles of Minnesota Creek frontage; 20 acres of irrigated hay ground with 7.155 CFS of water rights.
Improvements: 3,140 sq. ft. off-gri...
Improvements: 3,140 sq. ft. off-grid log home with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths; powered by solar and hydro systems; wraparound deck, balcony, and mountain views.
Additional Structures: Large barn/workshop with concrete floors and horse stalls; guest house; historic cabin.
Recreation & Wildlife: Located in GMU 53partial limited elk unit with over-the-counter tags for 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons; qualifies for Landowner Preference Program; abundant mule deer, elk, and other wildlife.
Painted Mountain Ranch lies within the coveted Game Management Unit 53, a partially limited elk unit offering over-the-counter elk licenses during the 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons. The ranch meets requirements for the Landowner Preference Program which enables top-notch mule deer and elk hunting experiences. The ranch encompasses 160 deeded acres, backed by 2,925 acres of BLM land and bordered by 18,221 acres of National Forest. It controls 1.35 miles of Minnesota Creek, offering excellent trout fishing, and includes 20 acres of irrigated hay ground supported by 7.155 CFS of water rights. The property is partially fenced and positioned in the Minnesota Creek Valley, offering stunning views of Gunnison Mountain, Lion Gulch, Minnesota Creek, and the surrounding landscape.
The ranch features a thoughtfully developed set of improvements designed for comfortable mountain living and practical ranch use. The main residence is a 3,140 square-foot custom log home that takes full advantage of its setting, offering exceptional views of the surrounding mountains and river. The home operates using an innovative off-grid solar and hydropower system while featuring log beam construction, tongue-and-groove ceilings and custom metalwork. It includes high ceilings, wood floors, and a central fireplace, blending rustic craftsmanship with off-grid functionality through both electric and propane lighting. The home’s main level features two bedrooms and one-and-a-half bathrooms, while the upper loft adds two additional bedrooms and a full bath. Expansive decks on multiple sides of the home overlook the mountain and river valleys, creating the perfect spaces to relax and take in the scenery. The property is served by a well and cistern with a water purification system.
A separate 877 square-foot guest cabin complements the main home, offering two bedrooms, one bathroom, and fully updated finishes throughout. The cabin includes custom floors, granite countertops, premium appliances, and a wood-burning stove, combining mountain character with modern comfortmaking it ideal for guests or potential short-term rentals.
Additional structures on the property include a 1,667 square-foot log barn with concrete floors, high storage capacity, and convenient drive-through doors, perfectly suited for equipment, vehicles, or livestock use. A 1,869 square-foot metal shop and storage building offers large access doors and gravel flooring, providing flexible space for ranch operations, equipment storage, or workshop needs.
Painted Mountain Ranch is located just outside the historic town of Paonia, Coloradoa region known for its apple and cherry orchards, as well as ideal growing conditions for a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The town of Paonia is located about one hour away from the Western Slope centers of Grand Junction and Montrose which provides residents with peaceful rural living and easy access to nearby services.
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About Dan Murphy
Dan Murphy, ALC (Accredited Land Consultant), Broker, and Partner, has called the Mountain West home for his entire adult life. His extensive business experience and service on boards like the Colorado DOWs Big Game Allocation Program, Colorado Wildlife Federation, Colorado Outfitters Association, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission Advisory Board reflect a commitment to conservation and community. A founder of Sportsmen for Wildlife Conservation, Dan also served as the Colorado RLI Chapter President in 20212022 and is currently the National RLI President for 2025, representing over 2,100 top land agents. Dans business journey began at 16, owning restaurants and a bakery, and later expanded to a guest resort and outfitting businesses in Colorado, Montana, Alaska, and Texas for over 20 years. His passion for the outdoors and integrity inspire his leadership at M4 Ranch Group, a nationally recognized firm specializing in ranch, hunting, and recreation properties.