Covering almost 6,400 acres, the CK Ranch offers an exceptional opportunity for a world-class hunting or cattle operation. North Cottonwood Creek winds through the center of the property, which adjoins thousands of acres of national forest, providing limitless recreational opportunities.
Land
The CK Ranch covers 5,755 deeded acres and includes an additional 640 acres of BLM lease ground. The landscape features rolling hills with large aspen groves and conifer trees, as well as expansive open spaces with sagebrush and native grasses that provide excellent wildlife habitat. North Cottonwood Creek meanders for nearly 7 miles through the heart of the property, lined with large cottonwoods that create a picturesque setting. The ranch borders the Bridger National Forest and offers great spots along the creek for additional building with views of the Wind River Range to the east and the Gros Ventre Range to the north.
Cattle operations are well-supported, with the ability to run up to 500 pairs for about 4 months. The ranch holds water rights from North Cottonwood Creek, with a priority date of March 26, 1952, for 4.328 cfs from the Mariety Supply Canal.
Improvements
Improvements include cattle corrals and multiple cabins. (4 inhabitable and 3 homestead)
Recreation
The recreational opportunities on the ranch are endless. The land boasts elk, deer, antelope, moose, bear, wolves, waterfowl, and sage grouse. Elk tags are available over-the-counter in unit 92, while antelope unit 88 offers a draw hunt with excellent odds for trophy antelope. Deer hunting in unit 142 also features general over-the-counter tags.
Fishing in North Cottonwood Creek is exceptional, with anglers able to catch a variety of trout, including cutthroat and rainbow trout.
The surrounding Wyoming Range and Bridger National Forest offer fantastic hiking, camping, and horseback riding experiences. Additionally, the nearby Wind River Range and Gros Ventre Range provide even more opportunities for outdoor adventures such as mountaineering, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.
Region & Climate
Big Piney, Wyoming, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with average lows around 5°F (-15°C) and significant snowfall. Summers are relatively mild, with average highs around 80°F (27°C) and cooler nights. The region receives low annual precipitation, around 10 inches (25 cm), mostly falling as snow in winter and occasional thunderstorms in summer. The high elevation and clear skies contribute to significant temperature variations between day and night throughout the year.
History
CK Land & Livestock was homesteaded by the Linback family in 1906. Ludvig and Elizabeth Linback, along with their eight children, each homesteaded a section of land under the Homestead Act of 1862. Over the years, the ranch has been passed down through the generations and is currently owned by the fourth generation. The “Home Place” was sold in the early 1990s. The “cabin” is nestled on the banks of North Cottonwood Creek, offering views of the Wyoming, Wind River, and Gros Ventre ranges. Improvements on the ranch include cattle corrals and multiple cabins, with four inhabitable and three homestead cabins. “Walt’s” homestead cabin is listed on the Sublette County Historical Registry.
Location
Big Piney, Wyoming, is a small town located in Sublette County in the western part of the state. It is situated approximately 90 miles south of Jackson Hole, making it a convenient drive for those looking to explore the renowned Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.
The town is about 220 miles northeast of Salt Lake City, Utah, offering access to a larger metropolitan area for additional amenities and services. The closest town with amenities, such as grocery stores, dining options, and basic services, is Pinedale, located about 35 miles to the north. Pinedale also offers additional recreational opportunities and serves as a gateway to the Wind River Range.
For air travel, the nearest major airport is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is approximately 100 miles north of Big Piney. This airport provides regular flights to major cities across the United States. Additionally, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), about 220 miles to the southwest, offers a broader range of domestic and international flights, making it another viable option for air travel.