HISORICAL
SIGNIFICANCE
HISORICAL
SIGNIFICANCE
SWEAT. HARD WORK. DETERMINATION. AND AN UNSHAKEABLE APPRECIATION FOR THE LAND.
THE BAR CROSS.
THEN AND NOW.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Sublette County, Wyoming, Bar Cross Ranch stands as a testament to the state's rich ranching history and environmental stewardship.
Spanning almost 100 square miles, Bar Cross is one of the largest and most picturesque ranches in the region, boasting a legacy that extends beyond just cattle ranching. With a storied past, endless natural beauty, and a commitment to protecting wildlife and resources, this land has an undeniable cultural impact and has earned its place as a significant piece of Wyoming's heritage. From its early days as a pioneering ranch that helped establish the Sublette County seat to its connections with famous musicians and its ongoing environmental stewardship, this ranch represents the perfect blend of history, tradition, and innovation.
EVOLUTION
OF A
CATTLE
RANCH
For over a century, Bar Cross Ranch has been a cornerstone of Wyoming’s cattle industry.
Originally established in the early 1900s, the ranch operated as a balanced cow/calf operation before transitioning into a yearling-based model. Despite shifts in cattle management strategies over time, its commitment to producing high-quality beef has remained unwavering.
Today, it continues to thrive, incorporating modern practices while maintaining the integrity of its ranching roots. With vast pastures and access to pristine water resources, Bar Cross Ranch remains an ideal location for raising cattle in a sustainable environment.
GHOSTS
OF THE
DEAD
Bar Cross Ranch is not only known for its cattle but also for its unique connection to rock and roll history.
The ranch was once home to John Perry Barlow, a lyricist for the Grateful Dead, who spent much of his youth on the property. The ranch became a retreat for the band, inspiring the creation of several hit songs, including "Cassidy," "Estimated Prophet," and "Mexicali Blues." During the 1970s, Barlow invited artists, musicians, and friends, including Grateful Dead members, to the ranch, creating a haven for creativity.
Bar Cross Ranch was a place where the wild spirit of Wyoming met the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s, leaving an indelible mark on both the ranch and the music world.
We believe in the words co-written by John Perry Barlow, grandson of the Bar Cross founder, who captured the spirit of this place in the song Saint of Circumstance, written at Bar Cross: “This must be heaven, ‘cause here’s where the rainbow ends.”
EXPANSIVE
RESPONSIBILITIES
Throughout its history, Bar Cross Ranch has worked alongside the great state of Wyoming to ensure the protection of wildlife and the surrounding ecosystem.
The ranch’s commitment to environmental conservation has led to efforts to maintain riparian habitats, protect native species, and use sustainable grazing practices. With access to miles of streams, forests, and rolling hills, Bar Cross Ranch plays a vital role in the region’s ecological health. In fact, a portion of the Bar Cross Ranch land is under a conservation easement managed by the Jackson Hole Land Trust to support natural wildlife movement and big game migrations in the Green River Valley. These efforts reflect a long-standing commitment to preserving Wyoming's natural beauty for future generations.
Bar Cross Ranch is more than just land, it’s a living piece of history that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
From its cattle-ranching origins to its rock-and-roll legacy and its commitment to environmental conservation, the ranch embodies the essence of Wyoming’s past, present, and future. With its pristine landscapes, strong ranching traditions, and cultural significance, Bar Cross Ranch has grown over the years, incorporating surrounding ranches and the stories of neighboring families, woven into the present-day outline of what we know as the Bar Cross Ranch. The fields, mountains, forests, and waterways remain a treasured testament to the enduring spirit of the American West.
GETTING IN TOUCH WITH BAR CROSS RANCH
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If you’d like to contact the ranch, please use this form. While we don’t monitor this communication for immediate responses, we’ll do our best to respond to relevant inquiries in a timely manner. For official matters, please send all formal correspondence to our business mailing address.
Please note: Bar Cross Ranch is private property. It is not open to the public and is not available for hire.