1515 County Road 243

Description

This extraordinary 460-acre mountain property sits above Lemon Reservoir, northeast of Durango, and offers an unmatched opportunity for seclusion, recreation, and access to some of Colorados most pristine wilderness. With seasonal, 4x4-only seasonal access via a recorded easement, the property rewards those seeking a private, off-grid retreat with stunning views, expansive meadows, and an abundance of wildlife. This peaceful retreat sits at an elevation of approximately 8,800'"9,400' and features a mix of mature aspen groves and open meadows, along with views of Lemon Lake, mountain ridges, and forested valleys. A concrete foundation was thoughtfully poured by the owner as a future site for an off-grid hunting cabin, perfectly positioned to take advantage of the panoramic mountain and lake views. A water well drilled in 2000 at 900 feet with a production rate of 2.5 gallons per minute provides a domestic water source, a rare and valuable amenity in this remote setting. The property borders thousands of acres of the San Juan National Forest on three sides, offering immediate access to over 1.8 million acres of public lands, with direct access to Missionary Ridge and the Weminuche Wilderness, Colorados largest wilderness area. From this location, one can hike, hunt, camp, and explore for miles without ever crossing a fence line. The surrounding forest is home to a wide variety of big game including elk, mule deer, black bear, mountain lion, moose, bighorn sheep, and wild turkey, making this an exceptional hunting base camp. San Juan National Forest is one of the most diverse and heavily hunted areas in Colorado, drawing sportsmen from across the country for its abundance of game and accessible terrain. The land itself features a blend of healthy aspen groves, ponderosa pine, and open ridges. Remnants of the 2002 Missionary Ridge Fire have left some standing dead timber, enhancing the wildlife habitat. Topography ranges from sloped forest to a flat ridgetop with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The current road leads to a scenic upper meadow and continues partway through the property; access to the interior currently requires hiking in. There are no covenants or restrictions, allowing for freedom to create a rustic cabin, off-grid homestead, or simply preserve the land as a private wilderness sanctuary. Recreational possibilities are endless"use the land for hunting, hiking, horseback riding, off-roading, snowmobiling, or simply enjoying the natural beauty and solitude. In the winter, the area transforms into a quiet, snow-covered landscape perfect for cross-country skiing or backcountry adventures. Just 15 miles from downtown Durango, this property offers the rare combination of proximity to town with complete immersion in the Colorado backcountry. Here is your chance to own a one-of-a-kind property that offers unmatched privacy, breathtaking scenery, and direct access to some of the most spectacular wilderness Colorado has to offer.