Devil’s Canyon Ranch

On the western flanks of the Bighorn Mountains, surrounded by public land, lies Devil’s Canyon Ranch. The ranch is the gateway for hunters, anglers, hikers, campers, cavers, and equestrians to access more than 20,000 acres of public lands in the Bighorns. The ranch features dramatic cliffs, sheer rock walls, and panoramic views of the Bighorn Basin. This spectacular property spans nearly 11,200 acres and provides vital habitats for a menagerie of mammals and birds, including bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, sage grouse, and golden eagles.

Visitors treasure this passage to cherished public lands full of prehistoric animal fossils, rich cultural history, and exceptional wildlife habitat.  Former landowners installed a gate that cut off public access to the only land leading to 20,000 acres of paradise. Trust for Public Land collaborated with partners to purchase Devil’s Canyon Ranch and hold it until the Bureau of Land Management could purchase it, ensuring that it remained permanently open to the public.

Private property within public lands is not uncommon in Wyoming. Over 3 million acres of Wyoming’s public land is surrounded by private land. This patchwork of private and public land creates many challenges for recreational access, wildlife migration, and the health of natural habitats. TPL strives to protect public lands and the lands that provide access to them.