Laramie Foothills Reserve is comprised of 3,853 total acres located 7 miles north of Livermore, CO and in proximity to Denver and Boulder, CO. The ranch is accessed directly off of and lies to the west of US Highway 287. The area retains a very secluded and agricultural feel, yet is only 25 miles northwest from the city of Fort Collins. The property is characterized by rolling native grass hillsides, protected basins and draws, and granite rock outcroppings. Mature ponderosa pine trees dot the landscape and deep canyon walls drop to the river-bottom below providing dramatic scenery. Through conservation efforts this unique landscape has been preserved and remains virtually untouched. Laramie Foothills Reserve is the largest property within Phantom Canyon Ranches, a large network of interconnected private lands with an underlying theme of open space and privacy.
Ecological Values
This area represents an ecological phenomenon where two ecosystems collide. The open short grass prairie transitions into the rugged Rocky Mountains. This unique habitat is home to a diversity of wildlife and allows a variety of plant species to flourish. More than 100 bird species have been observed in the grassy uplands, and the area also provides habitat to mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, bald eagles, antelope, deer and elk. Phantom Canyon is one of the last remaining road-less canyons along Colorado’s Front Range. In the winter months bald eagles roost in the canyon, and golden eagles, prairie falcons, and redtail hawks nest along the canyon rim. More than 600 plant species thrive in this extensive ecosystem, including rare plants and specialized species that do not grow anywhere else. In the summer months the ranch is remarkably blanketed in colorful native wildflowers.
Improvements
There are currently no residential improvements on the ranch, leaving a clean canvas for a new owner. Six building areas have been identified on the property that are easily accessed and provide dramatic views.
Private River and Reservoir Access
Laramie Foothills Reserve enjoys access to world-class fly-fishing on over 2.5 miles of the North Fork of the Cache La Poudre River. The property’s access encompasses both sides of the river as it flows out of Halligan Reservoir and meanders through the majestic “Phantom Canyon”. The ranch also enjoys use of the 275-acre Halligan Reservoir for additional fishing, sailing, boating and exploration. A boat launch has been developed for easy access to the reservoir.
Climate
- Rainfall (in.): 16
- Snowfall (in.): 88
- Precipitation Days: 85
- Sunny Days: 233
- Avg. July High (deg F): 77
- Avg. Jan. Low (deg F): 12
History
The overland trail ran right through this area and brought early settlers who began to put down roots in the mid 1800’s. Mountain men, trappers, and ranchers all transited the region and were joined by fabled stagecoach robbers, cowboys, and Native Americans. Tales of the land tell of the rich history with stagecoach stops in Livermore, nearby LaPorte and Virginia Dale. The community began ranching the area because of its fertile ground, and the land continues to support ranching families today. This area is one of the last watersheds in the Front Range that still supports ranching livelihoods. The ranch is part of a rich history of Native American activity and early homesteading. Tepee rings can be found on the south end of the property and an early settler’s cabin still stands in a protected draw, illustrating the profound heritage of the area.
