This stunning mountain property, located just outside Challis, Idaho, features a custom log cabin nestled on nearly 10 acres along a tributary of the Salmon River. Surrounded by mountains in every direction, it offers a serene and peaceful retreat. The home is equipped with geothermal heating and cooling, providing energy-efficient comfort year-round.
Land
The property spans just under 10 acres and is traversed by a tributary of the Salmon River. It is fully fenced and offers stunning mountain views in every direction.
Improvements
The custom-built log home offers 2,062 square feet of rustic charm, featuring 2 bedrooms, each with its own attached bathroom, and a third bathroom located in the laundry room. An additional loft provides extra space, while the home showcases beautiful custom logs and hardwood floors throughout. The entire home operates on geothermal heating and cooling for year-round energy efficiency. A wraparound porch offers the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the stunning surrounding scenery.
Recreation
Custer County contains a large portion of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, so the recreational opportunities available at your fingertips are plenty. Residents and visitors enjoy mountaineering, hiking, camping, hunting, mountain biking, or horseback riding. The Salmon River offers activities such as swimming, jet-boating, river rafting, fishing, and kayaking.
Salmon River
Land of Yankee Fork State Park
Salmon-Challis National Forest
Challis Hot Springs
Stanley, Idaho
Borah Peak
Redfish Lake
Sun Valley, Idaho
Region & Climate
Challis, Idaho, has a semi-arid climate with cold winters and hot summers. Winters are typically snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm, with highs reaching the 80s to 90s°F. The region experiences low humidity and moderate precipitation, with most rainfall occurring in spring and early summer. Its mountainous location also leads to wide temperature variations between day and night.
Location
Challis is a charming and undiscovered gem that offers an authentic Western experience. Located in Custer County, this small town of just over a thousand residents is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Challis is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Wilderness” for a good reason. The town is surrounded by vast, unspoiled wilderness areas and national forests, making it an outdoor paradise for those who love adventure. The Salmon-Challis National Forest, the largest in the United States outside of Alaska, is a playground for hikers, campers, hunters, and anglers. The Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, one of the largest wilderness areas in the Lower 48, offers pristine backcountry experiences for backpackers and wilderness explorers. The Salmon River, known as the “River of No Return,” is perfect for white-water rafting and kayaking, providing heart-pounding thrills against the backdrop of breathtaking river canyons. The area around Challis is renowned for its diverse wildlife and ongoing conservation efforts. It’s not uncommon to spot elk, deer, wolves, and other wildlife while exploring the surrounding wilderness. The town is proud of its commitment to nature preservation and responsible tourism, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Downtown Challis has managed to retain its historic charm featuring well-preserved buildings that harken back to the Gold Rush era. Challis might be a small town, but it hosts a variety of events and festivals that attract visitors from near and far. The Challis Bluegrass Festival, the Bayhorse Days celebration, and the Fourth of July Rodeo are just a few examples of local events that bring the community together.