Park County is environmentally diverse, representing ecosystems ranging from alpine, sub-alpine, to montane. The Ranch is situated in the montane ecosystem which is found between 6,000 and 9,000 feet in elevation and is typified by open ponderosa pine, Douglas fir and aspen woodlands, short-grass prairie grasses, and a mixture of shrub and wildflower varieties. The vast, rich, flat grasslands were what attracted ranchers and settlers to stay in this region after the gold rush. The ridges and hillsides, being a bit more rugged, are home to the
pine, fir and quaking aspen making them the ideal location to enclose a homesite.
With 360 degree mountain views featuring Pikes Peak, the Tarryall Mountains, the Sawatch Range, Sangre de Cristo Range, Mosquito Range and Gore Range all towering over South Park in the distant horizon unbelievable scenery
abounds.
The county offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, 
including access to a number of 14,000-foot peaks and proximity to a number of Summit County ski resorts, like Breckenridge, which are located approximately 45 minutes away. Part of the Ranch’s appeal is the proximity to an abundance of recreational opportunities without having to travel the highly congested I-70 corridor. Within the borders of Park County there are two national wilderness areas, two state parks and nine state wildlife areas. The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, as well as the Mosquito Mountain Range, are located nearby.
There has been a 102% increase in population in Park County over the last 10 years – as it is becoming a primary destination for telecommuters, Front Range commuters, seasonal residents,
weekend visitors and retirees. It is anticipated that the next few decades will see more of the same growth, presenting a prime opportunity for those desiring the lifestyle and amenities that Park County has to offer.
In 1999, Park County established itself as a “Certified Local Government” and established the Park County Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, which states its commitment to the preservation of the county’s history. Citizens and landowners of the Ranch, or any part of Park County, who desire to preserve their historic structures and sites can be aided by this
advisory commission.
In February 2006, Park County was designated as a Preserve America Community, a national honor which celebrates communities for their work in preservation. Park County is one of only 350 communities across the country to receive the designation, and only one of 10 in Colorado. This designation will open doors and opportunities to federal funding for heritage tourism projects and will continue to help visitors to enjoy the special heritage of Park County’s mining, ranching and natural resources.
Lastly, a congressional bill to designate the South Park area of Park County as a National Heritage Area is currently before the U.S. Congress. This designation would name South Park as one of 28 National Heritage Areas in the United States. This commitment to preserving the heritage and history of the
county is echoed by Hartsel Springs Ranch. The Ranch will continue to operate as a working ranch and will incorporate its historic buildings for re-use where possible.
Park County, home to Hartsel Springs Ranch, is quickly becoming a primary destination for commuters, Front Range commuters, seasonal residents, weekend visitors and retirees. Park County and Hartsel Springs Ranch offer endless opportunities for those desiring the lifestyle and amenities available here.
