Council Mountain Ranch

Ranch Description

Outdoorsman's hunting paradise on 2,300 acres outside Council, ID, bordering the Payette National Forest. This rare opportunity offers timbered hillsides, lush open meadows, live water from multiple creeks, springs, ponds and irrigated ground. With two homes, outbuildings, and miles of forest access and public lands, it delivers unmatched hunting and recreation right out your door.

Land

Spanning 2,300 diverse acres, this ranch is defined by its rich natural resources-year-round creeks including Lester Creek, Camp Creek, and Cool Creek, along with numerous springs throughout the property. Lester Creek also feeds the man-made pond, further enhancing the habitat. The sweeping terrain features natural brushy draws, creek bottoms, timbered hillsides, and stretches of native grasses, shrubs, and open prairie. These elements create a true wildlife haven where elk, deer, bear, cougar, turkeys, upland birds, and more thrive, offering exceptional hunting and recreation. With direct access to miles of public land and Idaho's vast backcountry, the property delivers unmatched seclusion while still being just minutes from town. Whether envisioned as a working ranch, horse property, or premier hunting retreat, the opportunities are truly endless.

Improvements

The property is well-equipped with quality improvements, featuring two updated homes set at opposite ends of the ranch for privacy and convenience. Each home has its own well and septic system, along with expansive decks that take full advantage of the amazing views. A solid concrete-block shop offers storage and workspace, while the barn and multiple outbuildings are perfectly suited for equipment, livestock, or additional ranch operations. Everything is in place to support a functional, comfortable, and fully operational rural lifestyle.

The land is fully fenced and cross-fenced to optimize pasture rotation and grazing.

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

Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources

Strong and stable water rights support the property.

67-11300 Spring - Domestic and Stock Water

67-11299 Ground Water - Domestic Water

67-14119 Ground Water - Domestic Water

67-320 Cottonwood Creek - Irrigation Water

67-7823 Lester Creek - Irrigation, Irrigation Storage, Stock Water Storage

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, 45 minutes from McCall and just over an hour from Riggins making all the amenities and additional recreation within easy reach.

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.