Guggenheim Heir Lists $26.2M Idaho Ranch in Sawtooth National Recreation Area

A 604-acre recreational ranch in Stanley, Idaho, owned by Guggenheim heir Kristin Guggenheim Miller and John Miller, has been listed for $26.2 million. The property features 1.5 miles of Salmon River frontage, a custom-built log main house, and extensive amenities within the protected Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Completed in 2014-2015, the turnkey property is being sold furnished and represents a rare opportunity for a private, world-class outdoor retreat.

What are the key features of this Stanley, Idaho ranch? The property's primary value lies in its immense privacy, protected location, and direct access to unparalleled recreation. Spanning 604 acres, the ranch is part of the 756,000-acre Sawtooth National Recreation Area, a federally protected expanse in central Idaho. The estate includes 1.5 miles of private frontage on the Salmon River, a major draw for fishing and water activities. The land also contains two stocked ponds, open mountain views, and diverse wildlife, including herds of antelope, elk, and eagles. This combination of scale and location within a national recreation area is exceptionally rare on the real estate market.

What structures and accommodations are included? The ranch functions as a fully-equipped compound with multiple structures designed for owners and guests. The centerpiece is a 7,759-square-foot log cabin-style main house, complemented by three guest cabins and a distinctive two-story "party barn."

• Main House: The two-story home was constructed with hand-hewn Montana logs and reclaimed wood from a Pennsylvania barn. The ground floor features a primary bedroom suite, while the upper level contains two additional bedrooms. The great room offers panoramic windows framing views of the Sawkill Mountains. The kitchen is equipped with custom cabinetry and fabricated zinc countertops.
• Guest Cabins & Party Barn: The three guest cabins provide private accommodations. The party barn includes a full catering kitchen, two bedrooms, and an upstairs game area, making it ideal for large gatherings. A separate caretaker’s apartment is also on-site.

In total, the property offers seven bedrooms, nine full bathrooms, and one partial bathroom across all structures.

What amenities enhance the property's recreational value? Beyond the structures, the ranch is designed for a luxury outdoor lifestyle. Amenities include four fireplaces, a heated two-car garage with an upstairs apartment, and the two stocked ponds. One pond features a beach and a fire pit, creating a private recreational spot. The property is being sold fully furnished, with the exception of some art, making it a turnkey opportunity. The term turnkey refers to a property that is ready for immediate use without the need for the buyer to purchase additional furnishings.

How does the location benefit the owner? The ranch's location in central Idaho's Sawtooth Valley offers both seclusion and convenience. The town of Stanley, known for its restaurants and outdoor stores, is approximately 20 minutes away. Smiley Creek Airport is less than five minutes from the property, providing critical access for private aviation. The world-renowned Sun Valley Resort is about a 35-minute drive, offering additional amenities like skiing and golf.

Based on our experience assessment, this listing is significant for its unique combination of a protected natural setting, substantial river frontage, and high-end, move-in-ready improvements. The property is positioned for a buyer seeking a legacy recreational asset with direct access to fishing, hiking, and hunting, all within a private, gated environment.