Matthew and Kim Bays, Twin Canyons Ranch – Granbury, Texas

Nestled in the scenic landscape between Granbury and Glen Rose, Twin Canyons Ranch is a testament to the Texas spirit of innovation, tradition-building, and down-home hospitality. Owned and operated by Matthew and Kim Bays, this family-run ranch is more than just a cattle operation raising registered Longhorns and Herefords—it’s a thriving hub for agriculture, recreation, and community engagement.

Founded in 2020, Twin Canyons Ranch spans 850 acres, where 150 registered Texas Longhorn and Hereford cattle graze under the care of the Bays family and a handful of staff. With a focus on genetics and animal welfare, Twin Canyons Cattle has quickly earned a reputation for producing quality cattle. 

While the Bays are first-generation ranchers, they have both leveraged their diverse expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to create a thriving, multifaceted ranch operation. Kim would say Matthew is the idea guy, coming up with innovative solutions and marketing strategies. “He’s also very hands-on, ready to jump in wherever needed to ensure smooth operations at the ranch.”

Matthew would say Kim has a passion for preserving the herd’s genetics, leading to the continued success of their livestock business. “Also, her financial expertise is crucial in managing the ranch’s overall economics and growth strategies.”

This dynamic duo has dedicated themselves to continuous learning and improvement in their cattle operations at Twin Canyons Ranch. Through attendance at various trainings, including the highly-respected Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course, they have become versed in essential topics such as animal health, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, and ranch management and have been able to apply this knowledge for honing operations at the ranch.

 In addition to the cow/calf operation, Twin Canyons Cattle also sells their beef to the public in person or online, and a portion of the proceeds support Martha’s Ranch Foundation, a non-profit organization near and dear to their heart.

Martha’s Ranch Foundation supports families navigating autism and focuses on creating inclusive environments where families can experience normalcy and adventure. “By offering holistic resources that address the unique challenges of autism – like safe accommodations, educational support, tailored experiences, and community building — Martha’s Ranch empowers parents and children alike and creates opportunities for joy and discovery,” explain the Bays, who themselves are parents of twin sons with autism. 

The ranch is also a “getaway” spot for those seeking an unforgettable Texas Hill Country experience. With a variety of accommodations—including waterfront villas, a luxurious Barn Suite, and specialized autism-friendly villas—guests can enjoy a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. There are plenty of memory-making activities outdoors, including hiking, fishing in stocked ponds, clay shooting, and more. Inside the impressive barn, there are inflatable slides, interactive games, a mechanical bull, live music, and on-site food and beverage. It’s a popular spot for weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions, and other special events. 

For the last few years, Twin Canyons Ranch has served as the venue for the Dallas Spartan Trifecta Weekend, offering thousands of participants from around the country access to run through rugged Texas terrain filled with natural obstacles such as rocky outcrops, river beds, limestone bluffs, and rolling hills. “Witnessing the athletes’ determination and grit is truly inspiring as the course traverses through the entire ranch and truly becomes a battlefield of human endurance,” the Bays say. “We are looking forward to hosting again in 2025.” 

Matthew and Kim say that the most formidable challenge of the beef industry is marketing. “For Twin Canyons Ranch, successful marketing requires more than just producing high-quality beef—it demands understanding consumer preferences, leveraging digital platforms like social media, and creating compelling narratives that connect customers directly to the ranch’s unique story and exceptional product.”

One of the most rewarding aspects for Matthew and Kim is pushing forward the cycle of growth and improvement through cattle breeding and genetics, not just for their own business but for the broader cattle industry’s progress. And, they are also passionate about building a vibrant community rooted in Texas hospitality. “At Twin Canyons Ranch, we’re not just raising cattle – we’re raising connections, one relationship at a time.”