Located in Southwest Colorado, Durango has abundant resources for flora and fauna, which happen to also work wonderfully for farming! James Ranch is a well-established Durango business that specializes in organic, grass-fed, and fresh food. Three generations work on their expansive 400-acre property in the Animas Valley, which provides the perfect environment and setting for their all-in-one community gathering place.
The Farm
The farm, agriculture, and animals are the base of everything that James Ranch produces. Highly visible from Highway 550, just driving past the property, you can see the sprawling fields with herds of cows enjoying the green grass set against the red cliffs of Missionary Ridge.
The Animals
Cattle here are treated like royalty, and raised without antibiotics or hormones. Their 100% grass-fed diet (grass that hasn’t been treated with pesticides, fertilizers, or insecticides) allows them to grow naturally, happily, and ultimately provide high-quality beef. Other cows are raised on the same principles, but used for their milk, which is made into delicious raw cheeses. Made on site, the milk is fresh and the healthy vitamins, enzymes, and fatty-acids remain in the finished products. Their three Belford options are fan favorites alongside the Leyden and Colorado Blue specialty cheeses. Other animals include pigs, chickens, and goats - which are often available to play!
The Gardens
After decades of testing different produce to see what grows best at our climate and soil, The Gardens at James Ranch produce mouth watering fruit and vegetables including sugar snap peas, rhubarb, pumpkins, currants, and squash. Mountain Bell Flower Farm is a part of James Ranch’s Gardens growing a huge array of colorful blooms. Their unique varieties are sure to be showstoppers whether for an event or table decor.
Tree Farm
The Colorado Blue Spruce, the state tree, is grown here for local landscaping needs. Carefully nurtured, these trees thrive off of the lush pasture, Animas River irrigation, and lots of sunshine. Through successful transplants, this native tree can continue to grow in your yard!
James Ranch Grill
Open year round, the Grill takes farm to table to a new level! Highlighting all of their homemade products alongside other locally sourced ingredients, their seasonal menus are mouth watering. A fast-casual atmosphere, they offer burgers, sandwiches, salads, sides, and desserts accompanied by organic and local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. During the warmer months, there are plenty of picnic tables to enjoy a meal on or inside with big picture windows framing the valley views.
James Ranch Market
This quaint farm store is a one stop shop for produce, meat, seasonings, reheatable meals, and dessert. There are also locally made artisanal products including jewelry, tea towels, cards, candles, and many more goodies.
Cabins, Events, and More
You can extend your stay at James Ranch by booking one of their private cabin retreats. A rustic charm cabin, cozy studio on the Ranch, and an entire house provide choices for all vacation/staycation needs. Live music is common here - especially in the summer months - adding to the lively atmosphere and creating a perfect dinner-and-show experience. Self-guided and school tours are available for a deeper dive into the land and its rich history.
Many James Ranch products can be found in local stores, at the Durango Farmer’s Market, as well as in many restaurants. However, the experience of visiting the ranch - where all the magic happens - is unmatched. To learn more about local farms and ranches, please contact Max and Deven at The Durango Team.
