Guide to valley county REal estate
VALLEY COUNTY BY REGION
Valley County is a picturesque gem nestled in the central mountains of Idaho, offering a blend of stunning natural beauty, abundant outdoor recreation, and a tight-knit community. Here's a closer look at what makes Valley County special:
Natural Beauty
Mountains and Lakes: The county is surrounded by rugged peaks, including the Payette National Forest and the Salmon River Mountains. It's home to pristine lakes like Payette Lake and Cascade Lake, both of which reflect the alpine charm of the region.
Forests and Wildlife: Dense forests of pine, fir, and spruce dominate the landscape, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife such as deer, elk, bald eagles, and black bears.
Seasonal Splendor: Each season transforms Valley County into a new kind of beauty. Summers are warm and inviting, autumns are painted with fiery foliage, winters offer a snowy wonderland, and spring brings wildflowers and flowing rivers.
Recreational Opportunities
Water Activities: Payette and Cascade Lakes are ideal for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Whitewater rafting and tubing are popular along the Payette River.
Hiking and Camping: Miles of trails lead through forests, mountains, and alpine meadows, suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and backpacking.
Winter Sports: Valley County is a haven for snow enthusiasts, with destinations like Tamarack Resort and Brundage Mountain offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Snowmobiling trails also abound in the backcountry.
Hunting and Fishing: With an abundance of wildlife and well-stocked waters, the area attracts hunters and anglers year-round.
Community and Culture
Small-Town Charm: Towns like McCall, Donnelly, and Cascade offer a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere. Local festivals, farmers' markets, and parades bring people together throughout the year.
Events: McCall’s Winter Carnival is a major highlight, showcasing ice sculptures, fireworks, and family fun. Other annual events include music festivals, fishing derbies, and marathons.
Local Pride: Valley County residents take pride in preserving the area's natural beauty and fostering a supportive environment for families, retirees, and outdoor adventurers alike.
Wtih so many options, where do you start? I suggest you focus on lifestyle .
first chair, access to a boat slip or quiet morning hikes?
Whatever it is, there is the perfect place for you in valley county!
TAMARACK RESORT
Tamarack Resort, located in Donnelly, Idaho, is a premier all-season destination that blends luxury with the rugged beauty of the Idaho wilderness. Nestled along the western edge of the Payette River Mountains, the resort offers stunning views of Lake Cascade and easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation.
In the winter, Tamarack is renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding on over 1,100 acres of varied terrain, catering to all skill levels. The resort also offers snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and snowmobiling, making it a winter wonderland for all types of snow sports.
During the warmer months, Tamarack transforms into an outdoor playground with miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, a beautiful golf course, and water sports on Lake Cascade, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The resort also features a zipline tour, providing a thrilling way to experience the breathtaking scenery from above.
Tamarack Resort is also known for its luxurious accommodations, ranging from cozy cottages and townhomes to spacious custom chalets. The resort village offers a variety of dining options, shops, and a full-service spa, ensuring a comfortable and rejuvenating stay.
Whether you're visiting for the winter sports, summer activities, or simply to unwind in a serene mountain setting, Tamarack Resort offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Idaho's natural beauty.
Real Estate Options:
• Condominiums: The Village at Tamarack as Lodge at Osprey Meadows features luxury condominium residences ranging from 392-square-foot studios to 2,427-square-foot three-bedroom penthouses. These units offer amenities such as private balconies, garage parking, and ski valet services. Prices for these condominiums start from the $399,000s.
• Townhomes, Chalets, and Estate Homes: Developments like Ponderosa Ridge Villas and Aspen Glade Estates provide contemporary villas and estate homes, while 1, 2, or 3 bedroom townhouses provide a more cabin feel. Ponderosa Ridge Villas offer 3- and 4-bedroom units, with prices beginning at $2.325 million. Aspen Glade Estates offers homesites starting at $429,000 and new estate homes from $2,499,000.
• Vacant lot: The market also includes resale residences and homesites, with homesites from $299,000.
Recent Developments:
In October 2024, Tamarack Resort expanded its real estate holdings by acquiring an additional 500 acres, bringing the total to approximately 800 acres designated for development. This expansion is expected to include around 700 residential units, some of which will feature ski-in and ski-out access. The resort’s master development plan aims to establish Tamarack as a premier four-season destination, integrating ski, golf, and lake activities.
Cascade Idaho
Cascade, Idaho, is a small town nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, located about an hour’s drive north of Boise. It’s a charming, peaceful spot surrounded by stunning natural beauty, especially with its location along the Payette River. The town is known for its outdoor recreational activities year-round. In the summer, you can enjoy fishing, hiking, and boating on Cascade Lake, while winter brings snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling opportunities. It’s a close-knit community with a relaxed vibe, offering a perfect escape for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Real Estate Options:
Cascade, Idaho’s real estate market tends to be more affordable compared to larger urban areas like Boise, but it has seen steady growth due to its appeal as a year-round outdoor recreation destination. The market includes a mix of vacation homes, cabins, and single-family residences, often with larger plots of land, ideal for those looking for more space or privacy.
In recent years, Cascade has attracted people looking for second homes or a quieter lifestyle away from the city, which has led to an increase in demand. Prices for homes in the area can range widely, depending on the location, size, and proximity to the lake or river. Waterfront properties or homes with mountain views are typically more expensive. While the market remains somewhat affordable compared to more urbanized areas, the growth in demand has started pushing prices up, particularly for desirable locations.
