Vermejo Reserve

Vermejo is a massive private reserve west of Raton covering 550,000 acres along the New Mexico-Colorado border. Owned by Ted Turner Reserves, the property includes open grasslands, forests, lakes, streams, and mountains reaching above 12,000 feet. It isn’t open for casual sightseeing, but you can stay at the reserve for 14 thousand dollars per night!

What to Do

Wildlife is one of the biggest reasons to come here. Vermejo supports large herds of elk along with bison, deer, bears, and other wildlife spread across an enormous amount of undeveloped land. The reserve is also known for fly fishing, including private lakes and streams with native Rio Grande cutthroat trout. Guest activities can include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife drives, photography outings, sporting clays, and archery depending on what you want to do. I would hope so for such a ridiculously expensive place.

How Much Time to Spend

This is not a quick stop. Vermejo requires at least a two-night stay. Two nights gives you enough time for a few activities, three or four nights gives you more time to explore different parts of the reserve. If you can afford to, plan around Vermejo rather than trying to squeeze it into a larger road trip.

Getting There

Vermejo is reached from Raton by heading west on NM-555 and continuing deep into the mountains toward the reserve. There is no public drive-through access, and you cannot simply arrive and explore on your own. Reservations are required, and stays include lodging, meals, and guided activities depending on the package.

Vermejo is expensive… but it looks pretty cool if you’re willing to splurge. Ted Turner estates also owns Ladder Ranch, Armendaris Ranch, and a property in Truth or Consequences if you’re curious to see more.