Witch Well Ranchos: A bite of the Old West.

Surrounded by pinion, juniper and cacti, Witch Well Ranchos is 2.5 acres of wild Apache County. It’s a rugged landscape in a place that is as rich in history and culture as it is in natural beauty. The area is dotted with small townships and friendly communities, and there’s plenty of adventure to be had. It’s a place to escape, or embark on a lifelong dream. Hunter, birdwatcher, hiker, skier, desert walker? There’s something for everyone here. Take a deep breath of the fresh mountain air, and break ground in Apache County. 

Apache County (since 1879) is home to many farming communities that have worked the land for generations. In fact, the county has the highest number of farms in the state (5,591). The stunning and varied land is also a playground for adventure seekers and holiday makers looking to escape to a higher altitude and a cooler, milder climate. Fishermen, bird watchers and hunters are all drawn in by the abundance of fish, birdlife and wild game. There are more than 450 miles of river and stream, and 2,000 acres of crystal clear, cold water lakes. The area is home to over 400 species including antelope, elk, deer, mountain lions, black bears and even gray wolves. In the area you’ll find the majestic White Mountains, the dramatic geological formations of the Painted Desert, and the Petrified Forest National Park with fossils dating back 225 million years. Needless to say, the options for a weekend adventure are plentiful. 

Whatever life you plan to create here, the build options are many. Build your dream home, small farm, ranch or adventure lodge; your piece of the west is as versatile as they come. Apache County is also one of the few places where you can actually live in an RV full-time. There is no minimum dwelling size requirement and no time limit to build.

Apache County, Az is located in the northeastern corridor of Arizona. Witch Well Ranchos is found off Highway 191, about halfway between the small towns of Sanders and St Johns. St Johns is the closest, and is known as the ‘Town of Friendly Neighbors’. Your friendly neighbors can supply you with all of the basics and you’ll find schools, a supermarket, pharmacy, gas stations, and even a few good restaurants. The closest major city is Flagstaff, 177 miles to the west, and Albuquerque is 188 miles to the east. If you run out of whiskey, the Witch Well Tavern (now a drive through liquor store) can be found just 20 minutes up the road.

Your slice of Apache county boasts wide vistas to the Northwest. The scorched yet fertile land is well covered, with vegetation including pinion trees, bushes, grasses and cacti. It’s a mostly flat section, slightly sloping to the north on the south side. The well maintained dirt road turns into a two track before arriving at the site. You’ll literally be leaving civilization in your dust here. Your water would be from the well, water haul and holding tank, or other similar option. Power by solar, wind or generator.

Whatever dream you’re chasing, this piece of the West has the makings of a real adventure. The pioneering days of the Old West may be long gone, but the opportunity to stake your claim in this county is alive and well. You’ll still find a few cowboys in these parts, but you won’t have to worry about the gangs and the gunslingers (so much ;). Grab a Lot, and ‘you’ll be grinnin like a jack ass eatin cactus.’

• Love the great outdoors? – hike, hunt, fish and even ski.
• Location, location – within easy reach of the White Mountains, the Petrified Forest National Park, and the Painted Desert.
• Birdwatchers paradise – the birdlife here is worth a closer look 😉
• Camping & RV’s are okay (permits required for long-term stay, more than 30 days).
• Build versatility – there is no minimum dwelling size requirement and no time limit to build.
• Topography – mostly flat with a slight slope and covered in pinion, juniper and cacti
• 28.6 miles to St Johns, Arizona – movie theatre, petrol station, fast food, pizzeria, restaurants, dollar store, supermarket, post, pharmacy.
• 33.9 miles to Sanders – population 630!
• 177 miles to Flagstaff (Walmart Supercentre, Home Depot)
• 188 miles to Albuquerque (New Mexico’s largest city)
• 245 miles to Phoenix
• 272 miles to Tucson International Airport.
• 242 miles to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport