Cascade, city in and the county seat of Valley County, Idaho, United States
Cascade is a small city in Valley County, Idaho, situated along the Payette River at an elevation near 5,000 feet (1,500 meters). The city is defined by the Cascade Reservoir, a large body of water created by a dam built in 1948 that now serves as a center for boating, fishing, and recreation.
The city developed as the county seat of Valley County and was shaped by the construction of a dam on the Payette River in 1948 to control flooding and manage water resources. A sawmill operated by Boise Cascade dominated the local economy for decades until its closure in 2001, after which the town shifted focus toward recreation and tourism.
The name reflects the flowing waters and pine forests that define the landscape, and visitors can see how locals incorporate the lake and nature into community gatherings and seasonal celebrations. People here share a connection to outdoor life that shapes how they spend time together throughout the year.
The best way to explore is on foot or by car along State Highway 55, as the city itself is small and walkable. Visitors should pack warm clothing year-round, especially in winter when heavy snow falls, while summers are short but warm and ideal for hiking, boating, and fishing around the lake.
A minor earthquake measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale struck in the late 1970s and lasted over a minute, reminding residents that the region sits in an area of geological activity. This unexpected event in the town's otherwise calm history showed that the ground beneath can shift unexpectedly.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
