Discovering Vermejo and the Waggoner Ranch, the largest contiguous ranches in the US
Are you a nature lover looking for a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience, or a working cattle ranch? Look no further than Vermejo and the Waggoner Ranch, the two largest contiguous ranches in the US.
Previously, it was thought that the title of the largest continuous ranch in the US belonged to the Waggoner Ranch in Texas. However, we now know that Vermejo, located in New Mexico and owned by Ted Turner, holds this title with over 550,000 acres of land. The Waggoner Ranch is a close second with approximately 535,000 acres of land.
The Waggoner Ranch is located in north Texas, and it has a long and storied history. Founded in 1849 by Dan Waggoner, it remained in the hands of the Waggoner family until 1991. At its peak, the ranch had over 10,000 head of cattle and employed over 120 people.
In 2016, the Waggoner Ranch was put up for sale, and it was eventually sold to Stan Kroenke. Today, the ranch remains a working cattle ranch, but it’s also a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Vermejo, on the other hand, is owned by Ted Turner and is a conservation ranch. Turner purchased the ranch in 1996 with a mission to transform it into a sanctuary for wildlife and endangered species. The ranch has become a sanctuary for many endangered species such as the Rio Grande cutthroat trout and the black-footed ferret.
At Vermejo, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fly fishing, and wildlife viewing. The ranch offers several lodging options, including Casa Grande, a 25,000 square-foot mansion, and Castilla Lodge, a 10,000-plus square-foot rustic retreat.
If you’re interested in visiting Vermejo, be sure to check out their website at https://tedturnerreserves.com/vermejo/. For more information about the Waggoner Ranch, visit their website at https://waggonerranch.com/. Both ranches offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience, and they’re a testament to the beauty and majesty of the American West.
VERMEJO MAP –
WAGGONER MAP –
https://youtu.be/H3t6DDR78Qs
