Recreational Land for Sale in Council, Idaho

Highway 95 frontage with 46+- acres of mountain property in Adams County, Idaho, offering privacy, versatility, and year-round recreational enjoyment. Located north of Council between Council and New Meadows, this timbered parcel backs to the Payette National Forest and provides access to exceptional hunting and outdoor recreation. A rare opportunity to own a private retreat in a highly desirable mountain setting.

Land

The property consists of approximately 46+- acres of timbered land with potential for a future building site per county allowances. It is situated on the west side of Highway 95, with the Weiser River located adjacent to the property on the east side of the highway. The land directly borders the Payette National Forest, offering immediate access to public lands and expansive recreational opportunities. The terrain and setting provide both seclusion and accessibility, making it suitable for recreation, investment, or a private mountain getaway.

Recreation

Council is known as the gateway to outdoor adventure in Central Idaho, offering easy access to the Payette National Forest, the Seven Devils Mountain Range, and miles of public lands. From the property, you can hop on your horse or UTV via a nearby gravel road that connects directly to state and national forest service lands. The area is ideal for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling. The 84-mile Weiser River Trail passes through Council, providing scenic opportunities for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing along the river corridor. Nearby Lost Valley Reservoir is another local favorite for fishing, canoeing, and camping amid Idaho's stunning mountain scenery.

Nearby Recreational Spots to Explore:

Payette National Forest

Hells Canyon

Lost Valley Reservoir

Ben Ross Reservoir & Hornet Reservoir

Weiser River

Snake River

Weiser River Trail

Mundo Hot Springs

Zims Hot Springs

Council Greens Golf Course

Brundage Mountain Resort

Payette Lake

Tamarack Resort

Region & Climate

Council, Idaho enjoys a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons--warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Its elevated location near the mountains brings crisp air, abundant sunshine, creating ideal conditions for year-round outdoor recreation.

History

Council, Idaho has its roots in the late 1800s, developing first as a ranching and logging community in the fertile Weiser River Valley. The area's open meadows, abundant timber, and access to water made it an attractive place for early settlers.

The town began to take shape in the 1890s as ranchers, homesteaders, and miners moved into the region. When the railroad arrived, the town grew quickly--shipping livestock, agricultural products, and lumber. Council became the county seat when Adams County was created in 1911, solidifying its role as the region's central hub.

Throughout the 20th century, timber, ranching, and agriculture continued to drive the local economy. The New Meadows-Council area became known for cattle operations, hay production, and sawmills. Though smaller today, Council retains its heritage as a tight-knit rural community surrounded by public lands, ranches, and some of Idaho's most scenic country.

Today, Council blends its historic ranching roots with outdoor recreation, drawing hunters, anglers, and adventurers to the Weiser River Trail, nearby National Forest, and the surrounding backcountry.

Location

Council, Idaho is a quaint mountain community that acts as the county seat of Adams County and sits along US Highway 95. Council sits between Cuddy Mountain to the west, rising to 7,715 feet, and Council Mountain to the east reaching 8,126 feet.

This area is considered the gateway to recreation in Central Idaho providing access to the Payette National Forest, the Seven Devils mountain range and a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities. Local events celebrated in the area include Meadow Valley Days, and the Adams County Fair and Rodeo.

Council, Idaho offers small town living as well as abundant recreational activities. The town is approximately 2 hours from Boise, 30 minutes from New Meadows, 45 minutes from McCall and just over an hour from Riggins making all the amenities and additional recreation within easy reach.

New Meadows is a small rural town in Adams County, Idaho, located in the scenic Meadows Valley on the Little Salmon River just south of the 45th parallel. It sits at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 95 and State Highway 55. New Meadows offers a quiet community with easy access to hiking, fishing, biking, hunting, skiing, and four-season outdoor activities, along with local events like Meadows Valley Days.

McCall provides excellent skiing and winter activities, while Riggins offers sunshine and warmer weather year-round with access to the iconic Salmon River with unmatched whitewater rafting and fishing. Boise is only two hours away, making the Boise Airport convenient for travel.