Bear Mountain Ranch consists of 1,800 undeveloped acres in central Idahos Little Lost Valley approximately two hours northwest of Idaho Falls, nearly midway between the resort communities of Sun Valley and Jackson Hole. The property lies at the foot of the majestic Lemhi Mountains and borders lands managed by the Salmon/Challis National Forest, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and State of Idaho as well as private ranch holdings under conservation easement. With wide open views and no residential structures visible, the grandeur of this classic, unspoiled western landscape is awe-inspiring.
The ranch encompasses a single block of land approximately three miles in length from north to south and two miles in width east to west. Elevations range from 6,300 feet at the south end of the property to 7,200 feet where the ranch joins national forest. The property features diverse topograph...
The ranch encompasses a single block of land approximately three miles in length from north to south and two miles in width east to west. Elevations range from 6,300 feet at the south end of the property to 7,200 feet where the ranch joins national forest. The property features diverse topography and habitat features, including native rangelands, meadows, springs, foothills, ridgelines, and canyons. Cub Creek is a seasonal stream that originates on national forest lands and flows south through the ranch for almost a mile through a robust riparian area consisting of willow and aspen.
The ranch provides excellent seasonal livestock grazing with stock water available from springs and catch ponds. The majority of the ranchs perimeter is fenced, and large interior pastures have been created through cross-fencing. There are several points of access to the property which are reached by ranch roads crossing BLM lands and linking with county roads.
A multitude of wildlife utilize the property, including elk, mule deer, antelope, sage grouse, and birds of prey. Because the ranch consists of at least 640 acres, the owner is eligible for a landowner appreciation permit to hunt elk and antelope on the ranch or other areas within Hunt Unit 51. This is an advantageous situation for the big game hunter given the uncertainty of receiving controlled hunt tags through the regular lottery system. Unit 51 is a haven for elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, and antelope and offers diverse hunting opportunities throughout the unit.
In addition to big game hunting, the Little Lost Valley offers a variety of outstanding year-round recreation opportunities including trout fishing, wingshooting, horseback riding, hiking, cycling, ATV riding, snowmobiling, and back-country skiing. Nearby streams include the Little Lost River, Summit Creek, Sawmill Creek, and Wet Creek and all offer excellent small stream fishing for eager rainbows and brook trout in the 8-inch to 15-inch range with virtually no fishing pressure from the public. In addition to stream fishing, the area offers over 100 alpine lakes, many of which are home to wild trout. Most of these mountain lakes are found at elevations between 9,000 and 10,500 feet and provide exceptional views as well as opportunities for day hiking, backpacking, and horse-packing.