Conservation

Focused on the Next One Hundred Years

With more than 172,000 acres in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Trinchera Ranch stewards its vast landscape for wildlife habitat and the benefit of future generations. Trinchera works with universities, conservation organizations, state and federal agencies to sustain the land, water and wildlife on the Ranch. This philosophy supports protections and restoration that sustain a healthy, intact ecosystem — from bugs to bears.

Research

A vast, natural laboratory, Trinchera is committed to defining best practices in land and water management. Protection and restoration efforts are active and include scientific observation, action and experimentation.

Recognition

Trinchera and owner Louis Bacon have been recognized for a commitment to conservation with several honors including the 2025 Western Division American Fisheries Society (WDAFS) Conservation Achievement Award and The Rio Grande Watershed Conservationist of the Year.

Protection

Palmer Land Trust has paid tribute to Louis Bacon with the Friends of Southern Colorado Honorary Recognition in acknowledgement of the significant contributions he has made to conservation in southern Colorado. His support is highlighted by the authorization of conservation easement donations on approximately 167,000 acres on Trinchera, the largest such donation received by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Combined with additional donations on Tercio and Red River Ranches, these donations help form a landscape-scale conservation effort of 800,000 acres of protected lands stretching from Great Sand Dunes National Park to northern New Mexico.

A DarkSky-Recognized Sanctuary for Stars

Trinchera is certified as DarkSky Approved Lodging, recognized by DarkSky International for its commitment to protecting the natural night sky. Set against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the reserve offers guests an unparalleled stargazing experience—free from light pollution and grounded in thoughtful, sustainable design. This designation reflects Trinchera’s broader conservation ethos, from preserving over 170,000 acres of wild Colorado landscape to reducing skyglow and safeguarding nocturnal wildlife. Guests can explore the night sky using five professional-grade instruments, including a 20-inch Dobsonian telescope, a hydrogen-alpha solar telescope, astronomy binoculars, two Unistellar Odyssey Pro telescopes with large-screen displays, and a Celestron Edge Deluxe. Programming includes guided celestial tours, solar viewing, and seasonal events for all ages. An unmatched opportunity to observe the Moon, planets, constellations, galaxies, and vibrant nebulae. Led by expert guides, the experience spans from the Big Bang to Trinchera’s pristine DarkSky’s at the speed of stellar light.

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