Valley County is tucked into central Idaho, and it’s big—really big—with much of it covered by wilderness. Logging used to be a major industry here, but these days tourism and outdoor recreation are the big draws. The Payette River runs through the county and is a favorite for rafting, kayaking, and other adventures.

Mountains surround the county, including the stunning Sawtooth Range, while forests cover much of the landscape. Ponderosa pines are everywhere. Payette Lake is crystal clear and perfect for swimming and boating, while Lake Cascade is the largest lake in the county and offers plenty of room for water recreation.

McCall is the county’s tourist hotspot, especially during its famous Winter Carnival, when the town fills up with ice sculptures, events, and visitors. Cascade serves as the county seat and is a smaller community with plenty of charm. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, boating, or simply enjoying the scenery, Valley County has no shortage of ways to get outside.