150 years, 6 generations and 650 protected acres: The story of a Colorado ranch

Hutchinson Ranch, the oldest family-owned ranch in Colorado’s Upper Arkansas Valley, spans 700 acres along Highway 50. The Hutchinson family has maintained ownership for six generations, successfully implementing conservation agreements protecting 650 acres. These agreements prevent the land from being subdivided for development while allowing the family to continue ranching. Notable historic recognition occurred in 2003 when the ranch was identified among the top endangered properties in Colorado.