A Family-Owned Ranch Built for Meaningful Experiences

The Bangerter Family

Layne and Betsy Bangerter

Eagle Mountain Ranch, also known as Bangerter Ranch, is a family-owned and operated property located in Gunlock, Utah. Owned by Layne and Betsy Bangerter and managed by their son Eli and his wife Alleyna, the ranch has been carefully developed to share the beauty of the land with others.

What began as a working ranch has grown into a destination where families gather, couples celebrate, and visitors experience Southern Utah in a way that feels private, peaceful, and authentic.

Every part of the ranch reflects the family’s commitment to preserving the land while creating meaningful experiences for guests.

Rooted in Southern Utah

Surrounded by towering rock cliffs, flowing riverbanks, and open desert skies, Eagle Mountain Ranch offers a setting unlike anywhere else. The property combines the natural beauty of Southern Utah with carefully maintained green spaces, creating a rare and unforgettable environment.

The Bangerters purchased the Eagle Mountain Ranch from Gail and the late Hyrum Smith who owned it from 1990 to 2021. The ranch's history, however, dates all the way back to 1857 when this area was discovered and colonized. It was originally known as the Holt Ranch. The original cabin of the ranch was built in 1965 and the main home was built by Gail and Hyrum in 2001.
This is a working cattle and horse ranch, meaning we have horses, cows, chickens, and a wide range of wildlife. It once was a famous cougar hunting area. There are wild turkeys, bobcats, rattlesnakes (rarely seen but we have them), hundreds of rabbits and coyotes, as well as the occasional beaver and raccoon.

Hollywood filmed a movie here in 1995 called "Wind Dancer," starring Brian Keith. Mr. Keith lived in the master bedroom for 3 weeks during filming. Gary Player, the famous golfer, also stayed in this original cabin.

Eight hundred years ago this was an Anasazi village. You can still find pottery and Indian relics up on the hills surrounding the ranch, but we ask you to leave them where they are. The old Spanish trail came right through the town of Gunlock which dates back to the 1600's.

A Working Ranch and Destination

Today, Eagle Mountain Ranch continues to operate as both a working ranch and a destination for weddings, lodging, and ranch experiences. The property produces local agricultural products while welcoming guests from across the world.

This balance between ranch life and hospitality creates an experience that truly is genuine and grounded.

A Place to Gather and Celebrate

Experience Eagle Mountain Ranch