Historic Antelope Valley Ranch

1,360 Deeded Acres with Private Lake
Loyalton, Sierra County, California
Offered at $3,550,000

An extraordinary opportunity to own one of the Sierra Valley's most historic and scenic ranches. The Antelope Valley Ranch encompasses 1,360 deeded acres along Highway 49, in the heart of the prestigious Sierra Valley—just 35 miles north of Truckee, 45 miles northwest of Reno, and 45 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The Beckwourth Airport, capable of handling private jets, is just 10 minutes away.

Water, Meadows & Timberland

The ranch is blessed with abundant water, including Antelope Creek and a 10± acre private lake (Palen Reservoir) entirely controlled by the property. Expansive meadows, rangeland, and timberlands stretch across mostly contiguous acreage, surrounded by U.S. Forest Service and California Department of Fish & Wildlife lands. Historically flood-irrigated, the meadows have supported hay production and seasonal cattle grazing leases that offset operating expenses, with strong potential for enhanced agricultural productivity.

Historic Legacy

Originally settled by Italian-Swiss ranchers, the property was the Cesare Lombardi Ranch, dating back to the late 1800s. Many improvements remain as living history, including two beautifully restored barns, equipment sheds, garages, and other outbuildings. The headquarters compound features a modest 1,600 sq. ft. 4-bed/2-bath ranch cabin, a 2-bed/1-bath caretaker's home, a studio guest cottage, and a bunkhouse—ideal for ranch operations, extended family gatherings or special events.

Recreation & Lifestyle

The private reservoir has long served dual purposes for irrigation and recreation. It provides excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and waterfowl habitat. The ranch also offers hunting, hiking, horseback riding, and endless exploration within a spectacular sub-alpine setting renowned for migratory birds such as sandhill cranes.

Conservation Easement

The ranch is protected under a conservation easement with the Feather River Land Trust, preserving its historic and ecological value for generations to come. Importantly, the easement does not restrict ranching, hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, or agricultural uses compatible with the preservation of the land. There is no public access on the ranch, and additional building sites outside the easement provide options for a new owner to construct a primary residence or lodge.

Location & Access

The Sierra Valley is one of the largest sub-alpine valleys in the Sierra Nevada, celebrated for its ranching heritage, expansive wetlands, and unmatched wildlife diversity. The Antelope Valley Ranch serves as the gateway to the Antelope Valley Wildlife Area, a 4,700± acre preserve managed by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife that is home to migratory waterfowl, mule deer, and other iconic species. With year-round access, the ranch is just 40 minutes to world-class ski resorts, within an hour of major air travel, and minutes to private jet service.

A Rare Legacy Offering

Large, intact historic ranches of this caliber are increasingly rare in the Tahoe region. Antelope Valley Ranch combines all the hallmarks of a legacy investment: spectacular views, private water resources, historic structures, abundant recreation, and a conservation framework that ensures lasting value.

For more information, please contact Far West Real Estate.