The 6666 Ranch: How Taylor Sheridan's $320 Million Property Dwarfs Yellowstone's Dutton Ranch
Taylor Sheridan, co-creator of the hit series Yellowstone, has embraced ranch life beyond the screen. As part of a group of investors, Sheridan acquired the historic Four Sixes Ranch in Texas for over $320 million. This massive property, spanning an area comparable to Los Angeles, served as inspiration for the fictional Dutton ranch in Yellowstone and has a storied history dating back to the 1870s when Samuel Burke Burnett established it.
The Four Sixes Ranch features a magnificent three-story main residence built in 1917, spanning over 13,000 square feet with 13 bedrooms and bathrooms. The property includes employee housing, stables, a private landing strip, and a 48,750-square-foot covered arena. To fund this purchase, Sheridan expanded his creative output, developing multiple Yellowstone spin-offs and other series for Paramount Network, contributing to what's now called the "Taylor Sheridan Universe."
Key Takeaways
Taylor Sheridan purchased the historic Four Sixes Ranch for over $320 million, using it as inspiration and filming location for his western dramas.
The ranch spans an area comparable to Los Angeles with a 13,000-square-foot main house, private airstrip, and extensive equestrian facilities.
Sheridan expanded his television production to fund the ranch purchase, creating multiple spin-offs and series that generate an estimated billion dollars in content annually.
Taylor Sheridan's Role and Acquisition of the Four Sixes Ranch
Taylor Sheridan, the co-creator and writer of "Yellowstone," made headlines when he led a group of investors to purchase the historic Four Sixes Ranch in Texas for over $320 million in 2022. Growing up in Texas, Sheridan had a personal connection to the property, having been raised "in the shadows of the Four Sixes" as he puts it.
The ranch spans an area comparable to the size of Los Angeles and features impressive amenities including a century-old mansion, extensive barns, stables, a private airplane hangar, and numerous bunkhouses. This vast property served as inspiration for the fictional Dutton family ranch in "Yellowstone," with Sheridan incorporating elements of the Four Sixes into his storytelling.
Sheridan's path to ownership began when he convinced the ranch's previous owner, Anne Marion, to allow him to use the property for "Yellowstone" filming in 2019. Following her passing, the estate contacted Sheridan about purchasing the ranch. When told the price was $350 million, he famously responded that he was "$330 million short" but requested time to explore possibilities.
To finance this extraordinary purchase, Sheridan negotiated a massive deal with Paramount Network, reportedly worth $200 million. This agreement created what's now called the "Taylor Sheridan Universe," encompassing:
"Yellowstone" prequels ("1883" and "1923")
Additional series ("1944," "Bass Reeves")
Planned Yellowstone sequel featuring Matthew McConaughey
Other projects including "Special Ops: Lioness," "Mayor of Kingstown," and "Tulsa King"
Sheridan has been transparent about his motivation, stating, "I do the shows for the ranch." He has featured the Four Sixes in "Yellowstone" since its fourth season and plans a dedicated spin-off series set at the property. However, as the primary owner managing substantial horse and cattle operations, he's proceeding carefully with the spin-off out of respect for the ranch's lineage and the families working there.
The Four Sixes main residence is truly impressive - a three-story, 13,280-square-foot structure built from quarried rock in 1917. This "Big House" features 13 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, three powder rooms, two kitchens, and three fireplaces. The interior showcases rustic furnishings with southwestern-style wallpaper, antler chandeliers, and cherry wood paneling.
Beyond the main residence, the property functions as a working ranch with extensive infrastructure:
Feature Details Employee Housing 20+ houses and bunkhouses Equestrian Facilities Multiple stables, 48,750 sq ft covered arena Aviation Private landing strip with hangar and pilot's quarters Water Systems Dedicated filtration plant Additional Buildings Shop and feed outposts, camp manager residences
The property hosts the prestigious Return to Bermuda Horse Sale annually, where stallions can fetch millions of dollars. There's also a restaurant called Nick's Bar overlooking the arena, providing food, drinks, and event space.
A Historical Look at the Iconic Four Sixes Ranch
The Burnett Family Heritage
Samuel Burke Burnett, a Missouri native, established what would become one of America's most prosperous cattle operations in 1870. Starting with just 100 cattle, he meticulously built his ranching empire by acquiring smaller properties throughout Texas. For 150 years, the ranch remained under the control of the Burnett family dynasty, serving as the real-life inspiration for the fictional Dutton ranch in the television series Yellowstone.
The ranch's name has been subject to folklore, with some legends suggesting it originated from a winning poker hand of four sixes. In reality, the name represents Burnett's careful development of a cattle operation that would become legendary in Texas ranching history.
Ranch Characteristics and Infrastructure
The Four Sixes Ranch spans an area comparable to the size of Los Angeles, covering nearly 225 square miles of Texas Panhandle terrain. This self-sustaining operation includes:
20+ employee houses and bunkhouses
Multiple stables and barns
Various shop and feed outposts
A private landing strip with hangar and pilot's quarters
A 48,750 square-foot covered arena
A water filtration plant serving the entire property
The Wichita River flows through portions of the ranch, and the absence of commercial hunting has created a haven for native wildlife. Every autumn, the ranch hosts the Return to Remuda Horse Sale, where prized stallions command prices in the millions.
Recently purchased for over $320 million by a consortium including Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan, the ranch continues its legacy as a working cattle and horse operation. Sheridan, who grew up in Texas, has noted that owning a Four Sixes-trained horse was considered a status symbol due to their exceptional quality.
The Impressive Main Residence
In 1917, Burke Burnett commissioned what he intended to be "the finest Ranch House in West Texas." The result was the magnificent "Big House" - a three-story, 13,280 square-foot mansion constructed from quarried rock that had to be transported to Guthrie by wagon.
The stunning residence features:
13 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms
3 powder rooms
2 complete kitchens
3 fireplaces
Original stone-covered wood paneling
An impressive archway at the entrance displays Burnett's initials and the year 1917. The interior showcases rustic furnishings, Southwestern-style wallpaper, antler chandeliers, and rich wood paneling. Surrounded by mature trees, the Big House maintains an atmosphere of seclusion and grandeur.
This historic home has welcomed numerous distinguished guests over the years, including U.S. presidents. Notably, Theodore Roosevelt visited during a coyote hunting expedition with Burke Burnett in Wichita County. It was Roosevelt who suggested naming the town of Burkburnett after the ranch's founder.
Yellowstone's Strategic Growth and Taylor Sheridan's Ranching Empire
Developing Spin-Offs to Support Ranch Acquisition
Taylor Sheridan's expansion of the Yellowstone franchise connects directly to his real-life ranching ambitions. In a candid Hollywood Reporter interview, Sheridan revealed that developing Yellowstone spin-offs served a practical purpose: funding his purchase of the historic 4-6's Ranch in Texas, which he acquired for $320 million with a group of investors in 2022.
The 4-6's Ranch holds special significance for Sheridan, who grew up in Texas "in the shadows" of this legendary property. Spanning an area comparable to Los Angeles, this ranch actually provided the conceptual foundation for the fictional Dutton ranch in Yellowstone, as properties of this magnitude weren't common in Montana where the show is set.
His connection to the ranch deepened in 2019 when he persuaded then-owner Anne Marion to allow filming on the property. Following her passing, Sheridan received an unexpected opportunity to purchase the ranch—though he initially responded that he was "$330 million short" of the asking price.
Paramount Network Agreement
To achieve his ranching dreams, Sheridan negotiated an extensive deal with Paramount Network reportedly worth $200 million. This agreement established what industry insiders now call the "Taylor Sheridan Universe"—an expanding collection of interconnected shows generating significant revenue.
The partnership includes:
Yellowstone prequels: 1883, 1923
Planned expansion titles: 1944, Bass Reeves
A dedicated 4-6's Ranch spinoff
Potential Yellowstone sequel featuring Matthew McConaughey
Sheridan estimates his productions generate television content worth approximately $1 billion annually for Paramount. This substantial arrangement emerged after he had initially planned to retire following Yellowstone's success, but the opportunity to preserve the 4-6's legacy changed his trajectory.
Future Projects and Television Portfolio
Sheridan's creative output extends well beyond the Yellowstone franchise. His diverse slate of projects for Paramount includes:
Show Genre Key Stars Special Ops: Lioness Spy Thriller Nicole Kidman, Morgan Freeman Mayor of Kingstown Prison Drama Jeremy Renner Tulsa King Mob Comedy-Drama Sylvester Stallone Land Man Drama Billy Bob Thornton
While Sheridan has featured the 4-6's Ranch in Yellowstone since season four and plans a dedicated spin-off set at the property, he's now taking a measured approach to development. As the ranch's primary owner managing substantial horse and cattle operations, he prioritizes respect for the property's heritage.
"This is a real place with real families working here. You have to respect the lineage," Sheridan emphasizes about the ranch. His motivation remains clear: "I do the shows for the ranch."
The Four Sixes Ranch Operation and Future Plans
The Four Sixes Ranch operates as one of America's most prestigious cattle and horse operations. Spanning approximately 225 square miles—an area comparable to Los Angeles—this Texas Panhandle property represents a significant agricultural enterprise. The ranch changed ownership in 2022 when Taylor Sheridan led an investment group in acquiring the property for over $320 million.
The operation maintains a self-sustaining infrastructure including more than 20 employee houses, multiple bunkhouses, stables, and various support facilities. A water filtration plant serves the ranch's considerable needs, while extensive fenced pastures and farmland support its livestock operations.
The equestrian side of the business is particularly notable. Each autumn, the ranch hosts the Return to Remuda Horse Sale where prized stallions command prices in the millions. The facility includes a massive 48,750 square-foot covered arena for equestrian activities along with numerous stables and riding areas.
For horse training and events, the property features:
Large covered arena
Multiple training facilities
Specialized stables
Extensive riding areas
The cattle operation continues the legacy established by founder Samuel Burke Burnett, who transformed an initial purchase of 100 cattle into one of America's most successful ranching enterprises. The property's considerable acreage, divided between North and South camps (each with manager residences), supports this significant livestock program.
Water resources include portions of the Wichita River flowing through the property. The absence of commercial hunting has created a sanctuary where wildlife thrives alongside the ranching operations.
Beyond agriculture, the ranch has expanded into hospitality. Nick's Bar, overlooking the arena, serves as a restaurant and event space for locals, visitors, and filming crews. This venue offers food, drinks, dancing, and private event capabilities in an authentic ranch setting.
Sheridan's future plans involve preserving the ranch's historical integrity while balancing its commercial operations. He has expressed deep respect for the property's legacy and the families who work there, stating: "This is a real place with real families working here. You have to respect the lineage."
The entertainment projects Sheridan oversees—reportedly worth a billion dollars annually—serve primarily to support the ranch's operations. While he has featured the Four Sixes in "Yellowstone" since the fourth season and plans a dedicated spin-off series set at the property, he's approaching this development thoughtfully rather than rushing production.
Cultural Impact and Historical Legacy
Impact on Television's Premier Ranch Dynasty
The Four Sixes Ranch serves as the spiritual blueprint for the fictional Dutton family ranch featured in the hit series Yellowstone. Taylor Sheridan, who grew up in the shadow of this legendary Texas property, incorporated many elements from the Four Sixes into his creation of the Dutton ranch. The exceptional horse training methods practiced at the Four Sixes became particularly influential—in Texas, owning a horse from this ranch was considered a mark of prestige due to their superior training.
Since the fourth season of Yellowstone, Sheridan has featured the actual Four Sixes Ranch in the show, creating a fascinating intersection between fiction and reality. This working ranch provides authenticity to the series that resonates with viewers. The sheer scale and operations of the Four Sixes informed Sheridan's vision for the Dutton ranch, especially considering that ranches of such magnitude aren't typically found in Montana where Yellowstone is set.
Notable Visitors and Presidential Connections
The majestic "Big House" at the Four Sixes Ranch has welcomed distinguished guests throughout its storied history, including several U.S. presidents. Among its most famous visitors was President Theodore Roosevelt, who developed a relationship with founder Samuel Burke Burnett. During a coyote hunting expedition with Burnett in Wichita County, Roosevelt was so impressed that he suggested naming the town of Burkburnett after the ranching pioneer.
The ranch's grandeur is fitting for such distinguished company:
Feature Description Main Residence 13,280 square feet of quarried rock construction Accommodations 13 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, 3 powder rooms Amenities Two kitchens, three fireplaces, original stone and wood paneling Surroundings Mature trees providing seclusion and natural beauty
The interior showcases authentic western heritage with antler chandeliers, rustic furnishings, and southwestern-style décor. This combination of natural beauty and historical significance has made the Four Sixes not just a working ranch but a cultural landmark that has hosted American leadership and inspired one of television's most successful franchises.
Architectural Magnificence of the Historic Four Sixes Estate
Building History and Enhancements
The centerpiece of the legendary Four Sixes Ranch is the magnificent "Big House," constructed in 1917 by Samuel Burke Burnett. This impressive three-story structure was built from quarried rock transported to Guthrie by wagon—an ambitious undertaking that fulfilled Burnett's vision to create the finest ranch house in West Texas. The grand entrance features a distinctive archway displaying Burnett's initials and the construction year, welcoming visitors to this historic property.
Over the past century, the property has undergone significant upgrades while maintaining its original stone-covered, wood-paneled charm. The ranch infrastructure extends far beyond the main residence, comprising more than 20 employee houses, multiple bunk houses, stables, and various shop and feed outposts. A private landing strip complete with an airplane hangar and pilot's quarters adds to the estate's self-sufficiency.
The facilities include a massive 48,750-square-foot covered arena and a state-of-the-art water filtration plant that serves the entire property's needs. Recent improvements have focused on enhancing the equestrian facilities, reflecting the ranch's prestigious standing in the horse breeding world.
Interiors and Guest Accommodations
The Big House encompasses an impressive 13,280 square feet of living space, featuring 13 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, and three additional powder rooms. The interior design reflects western heritage with rustic furnishings, southwestern-style wallpaper, and decorative antler chandeliers. What appears to be cherry wood paneling throughout adds warmth and authenticity to this ranching palace.
Two fully-equipped kitchens serve the residence, while three fireplaces provide comfort during cooler seasons. The home is surrounded by mature trees, creating a sense of peaceful seclusion despite the property's vast expanse. This architectural treasure has hosted several U.S. presidents over the years, including Theodore Roosevelt, who suggested naming the town of Burkburnett after the ranch's founder following a coyote hunting expedition.
For entertainment and gatherings, the ranch offers "Nick's Bar," which overlooks the arena and serves as a restaurant and event space. This beautifully designed venue provides drinks, food, and dancing for locals, while also functioning as a private space for special events and cast gatherings when the property serves as a filming location.
Financial Dimensions of the Ranch Operation
Property Valuation and Acquisition
The iconic Texas property commanded an extraordinary price tag of over $320 million when acquired by Taylor Sheridan and his investment group in 2022. This remarkable transaction positioned the ranch among the most valuable agricultural properties in America. The estate encompasses approximately 225 square miles of land—comparable in size to Los Angeles—making it a significant real estate holding by any standard.
Prior to changing hands, the property remained under the control of the Burke Burnett family for approximately 150 years. The centerpiece of the property features a magnificent 13,280 square foot main residence constructed in 1917 from quarried rock, containing 13 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms. Additional valuable assets include:
20+ employee houses and bunk houses
Private landing strip with airplane hangar
48,750 square foot covered arena
Multiple stables and barns
Water filtration plant
Extensive fenced pastures and farmland
The ranch's self-sustained operation and historical significance substantially contribute to its exceptional valuation in the Texas real estate market.
Horse Trading Operations
The ranch maintains a thriving equine business centered around its prestigious breeding program. Each autumn, the property hosts the Return to Bermuda Horse Sale, a significant event in the equestrian world. This annual auction has become a cornerstone of the ranch's revenue stream.
Premium stallions from the ranch's breeding program regularly command prices reaching into the millions, reflecting the exceptional quality of the horses produced on the property. The ranch's reputation for producing superior horses extends back generations—owning a horse trained at the four sixes was long considered a status symbol due to their exceptional training and bloodlines.
To support this valuable equine operation, the ranch maintains specialized facilities including:
Modern stables
Riding areas
Training facilities
Dedicated breeding infrastructure
These commercial activities, particularly the prestigious annual horse sales, represent a significant component of the ranch's ongoing economic model and contribute substantially to its operational sustainability.
The Dynamic Ecosystem of Four Sixes Ranch
Wildlife Conservation and Natural Habitats
The Four Sixes Ranch stands as a remarkable example of responsible land stewardship in Texas. The absence of commercial hunting has created a sanctuary where diverse wildlife populations flourish across the expansive property. Native species roam freely through the rolling pastures and along the Wichita River, which meanders through portions of the estate.
This natural paradise spans approximately 225 square miles of varied terrain. The ranch's commitment to maintaining healthy ecosystems is evident in its management practices, which balance cattle operations with wildlife conservation.
The property's vast size—comparable to the entire city of Los Angeles—provides critical habitat corridors. These natural spaces allow animals to migrate, feed, and reproduce with minimal human interference.
Agricultural Operations and Land Management
The Four Sixes Ranch operates as a remarkably self-sufficient agricultural enterprise. Its cattle division represents one of America's most prosperous livestock operations, having evolved from Samuel Burke Burnett's initial modest purchase of just 100 cattle in 1870.
The ranch's infrastructure includes:
Multiple cattle pens and extensive fenced pastures
A network of employee housing (over 20 houses)
Various bunk houses for seasonal workers
Feed outposts strategically positioned across the property
Multiple maintenance shops and agricultural facilities
Beyond cattle, the Four Sixes has developed a world-class equestrian operation. The ranch hosts the prestigious Return to Remuda Horse Sale each autumn, where champion stallions command prices in the millions. The equestrian facilities are equally impressive, featuring:
Facility Description 48,750 sq ft covered arena Hosts competitions and training events Multiple stables Houses the ranch's prized horse stock Specialized riding areas For training and exercise Modern barns For equipment and feed storage
A custom water filtration plant serves the entire property, demonstrating the ranch's commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency. The agricultural operations benefit from both productive farmland and natural grazing areas, creating a balanced approach to land management.
Four Sixes Ranch in Popular Culture
The Four Sixes Ranch, one of Texas' most historic properties, has established itself as more than just a working cattle operation. Its impressive landscapes and rich heritage have made it particularly attractive to the entertainment industry and visitors alike. The ranch's cultural significance continues to grow, especially after its acquisition by Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan and his investment group for over $320 million.
As a Filming Location for Yellowstone
The Four Sixes Ranch has become intricately connected to the hit television series Yellowstone. Taylor Sheridan, who grew up in Texas and was familiar with the ranch's reputation, began featuring the property in Yellowstone during its fourth season. The ranch's expansive terrain and authentic western atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for the show's portrayal of ranching life.
Sheridan's connection to the property deepened when he convinced the ranch's previous owner, Anne Marion, to allow filming on the property in 2019. After her passing, Sheridan led an investment group to purchase the historic ranch, preserving its legacy while establishing it as a cornerstone for his creative endeavors.
Plans are underway for a dedicated Yellowstone spin-off series set at the Four Sixes, though Sheridan has been careful to balance entertainment with respect for the ranch's heritage. "This is a real place with real families working here. You have to respect the lineage," Sheridan has noted about his approach to featuring the property in his productions.
Nick's Bar and Event Hosting
Beyond its role in television production, the Four Sixes Ranch has developed a reputation for hosting significant events centered around its impressive facilities. The property features a 48,750 square foot covered arena that serves as a venue for various gatherings throughout the year.
Nick's Bar, an establishment on the ranch property, has become a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. The venue offers:
Food and drinks in an authentic western setting
Dancing and entertainment opportunities
Private event spaces for special occasions
According to its promotional materials, Nick's Bar provides "a beautiful space overlooking the arena" that creates an inviting atmosphere for guests. The establishment has hosted numerous gatherings for cast and crew members during filming periods.
Each autumn, the ranch welcomes visitors and buyers to the Return to Remuda Horse Sale, where prized stallions command prices reaching into the millions. This event has established the Four Sixes as not just a filming location but as a cultural hub that celebrates Texas ranching traditions while bringing together enthusiasts from across the country.
