Four Sixes Ranch Tour
Welcome to the Four Sixes Ranch tour, where we take you on a journey through history, land, and the life of a working ranch that blends tradition and modern practices. This tour offers a unique insight into the operations of one of the most legendary ranches in Texas. Here’s what you’ll experience on your visit.
Begin at Four Sixes Supply House
We kick off the tour at the historic Four Sixes Supply House, a cornerstone of the ranch that has served as a hub for the local community for decades. Originally established to provide necessary goods for ranch workers and local residents, the Supply House has seen generations pass through its doors. Here, we’ll dive into the history of Guthrie, the small town that’s home to the Four Sixes Ranch. Guthrie, a town with a population under 300, is a testament to rural Texas living. We’ll discuss the dynamics of the town and its residents, the importance of our 6-man football team, and what it’s like living in a place where running errands could mean driving for hours to find basic amenities.
You’ll gain an appreciation for the sense of community and the rugged self-sufficiency required to live and work here, and of course, you’ll have time to browse the Supply House at the end of the tour.
The Big House
Next, we drive to the iconic Four Sixes Ranch Big House, one of the most famous landmarks on the ranch. Built in the early 1900s, this grand house was designed by the legendary ranch owner Captain Samuel “Burk” Burnett. It was a significant investment at the time, costing around $100,000—a substantial amount back then. However, despite its grandeur, Burk himself chose to sleep at the more modest Supply House when staying on the ranch, leaving the Big House mostly for guests and formal occasions. While we respect the privacy of the house, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos from outside the fence, capturing this piece of history.
L Barn
Our next stop will be the infamous L Barn, one of the working heartbeats of the ranch. Used primarily to house the horses used by ranch cowboys, this barn has played a crucial role in maintaining the ranch’s equine operations. Here, you’ll learn about the specialized horses that are bred and trained to work cattle, support the ranch operations, and even compete in rodeos. You’ll have time for photos in front of the L Barn, soaking in the rustic charm of this essential facility.
Tour of Ranch Buildings
As we drive through the ranch, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of each building we pass. You’ll see barns, workshops, equipment sheds, and more. Each building has a unique purpose, from housing tools and machinery to supporting daily ranch operations. We’ll discuss the various jobs that are essential to the ranch but aren’t directly related to cowboys or veterinarians—jobs like mechanics, welders, and maintenance workers, whose work keeps the ranch running smoothly. Understanding the diversity of skills needed here will give you a broader perspective on what it takes to keep such a vast operation in motion.
Horse Division
Arriving at the Four Sixes Horse Division, we’ll explore the different barns, each serving a distinct purpose. The breeding barn is the hub of our equine reproductive program, where we offer specialized veterinary services. Our vet clinic handles everything from breeding to health management, primarily focused on the horses, but we do serve the surrounding community and their pets. You’ll also visit the Main Stallion Barn, home to our most prized stallions that contribute to the ranch’s prestigious bloodlines. Additionally, we’ll discuss the trap systems used for safely moving and sorting the horses.
South Camp Road and Lookout Point
We’ll then head out along South Camp Road, where the true scale and beauty of the Four Sixes Ranch begins to reveal itself. As we drive, we’ll explain the ranch’s approach to land conservation and water management—key components of our commitment to sustainable ranching. You’ll learn about the history of our cattle brand and Burk Burnett’s legacy in the cattle industry.
One of the highlights of this section is stopping at a Lookout Point, where you’ll be able to see the ranch stretch out as far as the eye can see. This panoramic view showcases the vastness of the land and its untouched beauty, reminding us of the importance of conservation and responsible stewardship.
Return to the Supply House
After soaking in the views, we’ll head back to where we started—the Four Sixes Supply House. Here, you’ll have some free time to shop for souvenirs, ranch gear, and memorabilia that commemorate your visit to one of the most iconic ranches in Texas.
We hope that you join us!
The Four Sixes Ranch tour is more than just a visit; it’s an immersive experience into a world where history, tradition, and modern ranching practices collide. From the grand history of the Big House to the practical operations of the ranch, from the breathtaking views at lookout points to the detailed workings of horse breeding and cattle management, this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into life on one of America’s most storied ranches
