Running Elk Ranch is an extraordinary 986 acre legacy property located just north of Darby at the base of Montana's Bitterroot Mountains. Offering a rare combination of productive irrigated hay ground, forested acreage, wildlife habitat, and breathtaking mountain views, the ranch provides exceptional privacy while remaining conveniently close to area amenities. The ranch is highlighted by a custom 7,250 square foot residence completed in 2022 and thoughtfully positioned to capture sweeping views of the property and surrounding mountain ranges. Features include vaulted ceilings, custom beams and woodwork, oak flooring, granite countertops, expansive windows, wraparound deck, two wood-burning fireplaces, upper and lower-level bar areas, walkout basement, dual laundry areas, and an oversized six-car garage. Additional improvements include a 3,584 square foot updated ranch manager's home, a charming log hunting cabin with loft, full kitchen, two bathrooms, and wood stove, plus a remodeled guest home near the ranch entrance. The property also features a substantial 100' x 60' equipment and hay barn along with additional shop and storage facilities. Protected in part by a conservation easement, the ranch retains a valuable additional building envelope situated in a prime location with spectacular 360-degree views. Frequent elk and abundant wildlife, productive agricultural resources, multiple residences, and unparalleled scenery make Running Elk Ranch one of the premier offerings in the Bitterroot Valley.
Running Elk Ranch is an extraordinary 986 acre legacy property located just north of Darby at the base of Montana's Bitterroot Mountains. Offering a rare combination of productive irrigated hay ground, forested acreage, wildlife habitat, and breathtaking mountain views, the ranch provides exceptional privacy while remaining conveniently close to area amenities. The ranch is highlighted by a custom 7,250 square foot residence completed in 2022 and thoughtfully positioned to capture sweeping views of the property and surrounding mountain ranges. Features include vaulted ceilings, custom beams and woodwork, oak flooring, granite countertops, expansive windows, wraparound deck, two wood-burning fireplaces, upper and lower-level bar areas, walkout basement, dual laundry areas, and an oversized six-car garage. Additional improvements include a 3,584 square foot updated ranch manager's home, a charming log hunting cabin with loft, full kitchen, two bathrooms, and wood stove, plus a remodeled guest home near the ranch entrance. The property also features a substantial 100' x 60' equipment and hay barn along with additional shop and storage facilities. Protected in part by a conservation easement, the ranch retains a valuable additional building envelope situated in a prime location with spectacular 360-degree views. Frequent elk and abundant wildlife, productive agricultural resources, multiple residences, and unparalleled scenery make Running Elk Ranch one of the premier offerings in the Bitterroot Valley.
Year
Property tax
Land + Additions
Assessment*
2025
$21,550 (+4.0%)
$27,739 + $2,657,770
$2,685,509
2024
$20,715
$54,173 + $2,657,770
$2,711,943
Public record
Beds
3
Baths
4
Stories
1
Lot width
—
Lot depth
—
Lot size
160.81 Acres
Year renovated
—
Finished Sq. Ft.
7,250
Unfinished Sq. Ft.
—
Total Sq. Ft.
7,250
Year built
2020
Style
Single Family Residential
County
Ravalli County
APN
13-1273-27-1-01-04-0000
Parking Spaces
—
Basement
—
Accessible
—
HOA Dues
—
Garage
—
Features
—
Last updated by owner on Aug 17, 2026.
Climate risks
1/10 Flood Factor
Minimal risk of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
7/10 Fire Factor
20% chance of being in a wildfire in next 30 years
2/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 91° expected this year, 17 days in 30 years
1/10 Wind Factor
Minimal risk of severe winds over next 30 years
10/10 Air Factor
32 unhealthy days expected this year, 41 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Darby, MT • 59829
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
37
22
42
25
52
33
57
34
68
44
73
49
83
55
83
54
76
49
60
37
47
32
41
29
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
90/ 100
Exceptional sunlight
Sunscore
This home ranks in the top 2% for direct sun exposure in the zip code. There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.