Adams County Overview
Adams County is a rural region in west-central Idaho, known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and agricultural roots. Established in 1911, the county was named after John Adams, the second president of the United States. Adams County is bordered by Valley County to the east, Washington County to the south, and the state of Oregon to the west. The Weiser River flows through the county, adding to its scenic beauty and providing opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
The population of Adams County is around 4,500 people, making it one of the least populated counties in Idaho. The county seat is Council, which is also the largest city in the county. Agriculture, forestry, and outdoor recreation are the main drivers of the economy.
- County Seat: Council
- Number of Cities and Towns: 3
- Major School Districts: Council School District, Meadows Valley School District
Council
Council Overview
Council, the county seat of Adams County, is located in the central part of the county along U.S. Highway 95. Founded in 1891, Council grew as a logging and agricultural center due to its proximity to vast forests and fertile farmland. Today, Council maintains its rural charm and serves as the administrative and economic hub of the county. The city is bordered by the Payette National Forest to the east and Weiser to the south, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Council experiences a typical inland climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Council Ranger Station, and the annual Adams County Fair, which showcases local agricultural traditions.
- Population: 839
- Population Density: 406 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 83612
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 95, Idaho State Highway 71
- Nearest Airports: McCall Municipal Airport (30 miles), Boise Airport (126 miles)
- Libraries: Council Valley Free Library
- Hospitals: Adams County Health Center
Schools in Council
Council is served by the Council School District, which includes Council Elementary School (PreK-5) and Council Junior-Senior High School (grades 6-12). Council Elementary School enrolls approximately 150 students, providing a strong foundation in early education with a focus on literacy and math. The junior-senior high school has around 100 students and offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes vocational training and extracurricular activities like sports, music, and agricultural programs. Council’s schools are known for their small class sizes, personalized instruction, and strong community support.
New Meadows
New Meadows Overview
New Meadows is located in the northern part of Adams County, near the junction of U.S. Highway 95 and Idaho State Highway 55. Established in 1911 as a railroad town, New Meadows has since become known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and skiing. The town is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, with the Payette National Forest and the Salmon River nearby. It’s bordered by Valley County to the east, making it a gateway to some of Idaho’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
New Meadows experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and mild summers. The town is home to landmarks such as Zims Hot Springs, a popular year-round destination for locals and visitors seeking relaxation in natural mineral waters.
- Population: 540
- Population Density: 462 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 83654
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 95, Idaho State Highway 55
- Nearest Airports: McCall Municipal Airport (15 miles), Boise Airport (120 miles)
- Libraries: New Meadows Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in McCall (St. Luke’s McCall Medical Center)
Schools in New Meadows
New Meadows is served by the Meadows Valley School District, which operates a single K-12 school, Meadows Valley School. The school enrolls approximately 140 students across all grade levels, offering a personalized education in a small, community-focused setting. The school’s curriculum emphasizes both academic achievement and outdoor education, reflecting the region’s natural surroundings. Students in New Meadows benefit from small class sizes, individualized attention, and a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and environmental studies programs.
Indian Valley
Indian Valley Overview
Indian Valley is a small, unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Adams County, along U.S. Highway 95. This rural town is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, with the Weiser River flowing through the area. Indian Valley was established in the late 1800s as a farming and ranching community, and today it remains a quiet, agricultural town known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic landscapes.
The weather in Indian Valley is characterized by cold winters and hot summers, with abundant sunshine in the warmer months. The town offers a laid-back, rural lifestyle, with access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
- Population: 32
- Population Density: 12 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 83632
- Road Network: U.S. Highway 95, County roads
- Nearest Airports: McCall Municipal Airport, Boise Airport
- Libraries: Nearest library in Council (Council Valley Free Library)
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Council (Adams County Health Center)
Schools in Indian Valley
Indian Valley is part of the Council School District, with students attending Council Elementary School and Council Junior-Senior High School in nearby Council. The elementary school serves around 150 students, while the junior-senior high school enrolls approximately 100 students. The schools offer a broad curriculum that includes traditional academics as well as vocational and agricultural programs. The district is known for its strong community ties and emphasis on student success through small class sizes and individualized instruction.