Jeffrey Epstein’s roughly 10,000-acre Zorro Ranch near Stanley, New Mexico — about 35 miles south of Santa Fe — was his most remote private property. Its isolation made it useful for activities he preferred to keep distant from urban scrutiny, while its scale made it an impressive venue for scientific gatherings that served his academic patronage ambitions.
The Property
Epstein purchased Zorro Ranch in the 1990s. The compound included a sprawling main residence modeled after a private jet’s interior — aircraft-inspired materials and aesthetics throughout the building, consistent with Epstein’s transportation obsessions. There was a private airstrip, multiple outbuildings, staff quarters, and extensive grounds.
Scientific Gatherings
Epstein used Zorro Ranch for science gatherings, inviting researchers in physics, biology, cognitive science, and other fields for multi-day discussions. Scientists who attended described substantive intellectual conversations alongside unusual living conditions and what some described as uncomfortable or inappropriate behavior by Epstein.
The remote, off-the-grid nature of the ranch concentration of scientists created an environment where Epstein could position himself as patron and equal discussant without the social checks of urban settings.
Victim Accounts
Virginia Giuffre alleged she was abused by Epstein at Zorro Ranch, and that she witnessed and was involved in abuse of others there. Annie Farmer alleged she was abused there as a teenager — her testimony at the Maxwell trial was the first public account of Zorro Ranch as a trafficking site.
Labor Trafficking Investigation
The New Mexico Attorney General’s office launched an investigation in 2019 following Epstein’s arrest. Investigators examined whether undocumented workers at the ranch had been exploited, whether there were state-level sex trafficking violations, and the full scope of activities at the property.
The investigation found evidence of concerning labor practices and was referred to state and federal prosecutors. A settlement resulted in the estate paying several million dollars to resolve USVI and state claims.
Sale
After Epstein’s death, Zorro Ranch was held as an estate asset and eventually sold for approximately $18 million. The proceeds went to the estate, which funded the victim compensation program.