Los Trigos Ranch is an iconic Pecos River property just 30 minutes from Santa Fe. Recently designated as Outstanding National Resource Waters, the Pecos River meanders for two miles through the middle of the ranch, dotted by majestic cottonwoods and native willows. With its deep pools and white riffles, the river is filled with brown and rainbow trout and offers some of the best fly fishing in the state. Abundant wildlife, including elk, mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions, roam this 612± acre property. Miles of well-maintained trails starting right out the back door offer endless recreational possibilities on foot or horseback and the best views of the Pecos River and Rowe Mesa. Los Trigos adjoins the Santa Fe National Forest on the north, creating endless recreational possibilities.
Originally part of the Los Trigos Grant conveyed by Spain in 1815, the history of Los Trigos is rich and storied. Los Trigos was part of Tex Austin’s Forked Lightning Ranch, later owned by Buddy Fogelson and his wife, actress Greer Garson. Owned and loved by the Cowles family since 1990, Los Trigos sits directly between the two properties formerly owned by Jane Fonda and Val Kilmer.
The architect and late owner, Bill Cowles, and his wife Ginny custom designed the six-building compound and raised and trained Norwegian Fjord horses on the property. The cohesive exteriors of all buildings in the compound are Northern New Mexico pitched-roof style, with unique vertical wood planks and plaster chinking. The improvements include an owner’s residence, manager’s house, foaling barn with office, stables, workshop, and a detached studio. A machinery barn and a small river cabin are outside the main compound.
Carefully managed, the forest provides cover and open meadows for wildlife. Multiple thinning projects over the years have improved the habitat and reduced fire danger, creating a lush growth of grama and other grasses. Los Trigos sits in the middle of over 9,000± acres of permanently conserved Pecos River Valley.
A series of springs and seeps provide drinking water for the numerous mule deer and elk. Black bears peacefully wander the ranch. Wild turkeys, quail, foxes, and beavers are abundant. Coyotes harmonize in the hills at night, and blue herons stalk the waters in the evening. Red-tailed hawks nest on the property, and bald eagles are frequent visitors.
