Mystery Buyer Unveiled for $79.5M Wyoming Ranch Larger Than Rhode Island
A mysterious transaction has concluded in Wyoming, with the sale of the expansive Pathfinder Ranches. Extending over 916,000 acres, this ranch is larger than the entire state of Rhode Island and has officially found a new owner.
New Owner of the $79.5 Million Pathfinder Ranches
Christopher Robinson, a notable local elected official, purchased the ranch through his family-owned company, The Ensign Group L.C. The deal was finalized on January 14, although the exact purchase price remains undisclosed. Originally listed at $79.5 million, the ranch was shrouded in speculation before its sale.
Size and Significance
Pathfinder Ranches spans an impressive 1,431 square miles, making it nearly the size of Delaware. It represents approximately 1% of Wyoming’s total land area and stretches across four counties, highlighting its significant size compared to other well-known locations:
- New York City: approximately 300 square miles
- Rhode Island: just over 1,000 square miles
- Fictional Dutton Ranch from “Yellowstone”: between 775,000 and 825,000 acres
Property Features and Historical Context
Pathfinder Ranches includes waterways like the Sweetwater River and encompasses portions of several mountain ranges, including Pedro, Ferris, and Green Mountain. It also features historical sites such as Independence Rock, a landmark along several famous trails trekked by early pioneers.
Robinson, who already manages roughly one million acres of land, emphasized the connection between Pathfinder Ranches and neighboring properties. He noted that the Stone Ranch, acquired four years prior, will serve as a vital connector for the overall landscape, allowing for unified management of livestock.
Robinson’s Vision for the Ranch
Robinson shared his aspirations for Pathfinder Ranches, stating that he and his company intend to run their livestock on the land rather than act as passive landlords. He expressed a commitment to stewardship over the land, reflecting both business interests and conservation goals.
“We love land and water,” Robinson stated. “We think it’s a good long-term investment, and we like the opportunities it affords us to be stewards over a piece of God’s creation.”
The Landscape Ahead
As Robinson takes ownership, the future of Pathfinder Ranches looks to intertwine agricultural operations with environmental conservation. His vision aims to preserve the natural beauty of Wyoming while maximizing the ranch’s potential.
This acquisition underscores the growing interest in vast land investments and the importance of sustainable practices in agricultural management. Time will tell how Robinson’s stewardship will shape the legacy of this remarkable Wyoming ranch.
