Double E Ranch

The sprawling 23,000-acre Double E Ranch in southwestern New Mexico is a mosaic of private land and grazing leases on state and federal lands. Its rugged and beautiful terrain boasts Hell’s Canyon, a mile-long slot canyon and outdoor playground for hikers and rock climbers, three miles of Bear Creek, an important tributary to the Gila River, and unparalleled wildlife habitat for bighorn sheep, black bear, Coues white-tailed deer, and many migratory birds.

When the ranch’s longtime owners listed the property for sale, The Trust for Public Land and partners saw an opportunity to protect this unspoiled landscape. In January 2015, we completed the purchase and permanent protection of the 23,000-acre ranch, which is now the public’s land. The New Mexico State Game Commission and Department of Game and Fish will manage the property to protect recreational access and wildlife habitat, and plan to expand outdoor youth education programs at the ranch.