Astronomically, it isn’t summer yet — but by every other metric, it is. So here’s a roundup of recent news from three popular summer destinations outside Boise.
Astronomically, it isn’t summer yet — but by every other metric, it is. So here’s a roundup of recent news from three popular summer destinations outside Boise.
McCall
Valley County and an advocacy group called United Payette secured a recreational lease on just under two square miles of land around Payette Lake.
Two years ago, that land — a majority of it to the west of Payette Lake and a small piece to the east — was being considered for development by a private firm. The Idaho Department of Lands shut that down, and this lease keeps the land open for public recreation through next year. It also protects water quality, and does allow for some grazing and mineral recovery.
The idea of not having to find parking before getting to this view ... I could cry. (Blake Hunter / City Cast Boise)
Stanley
The 4.5-mile gravel trail connecting Stanley to Redfish Lake will open this summer for walking, biking, and horseback riding.
Redfish is the valley’s most popular destination, and the path could ease vehicle traffic from the highway, offering visitors staying in Stanley another way to reach the lake.
The Sawtooth National Forest came up with the idea in the 1990s, put forward the plans in 2014, and began construction. However, the trail crosses 1.5 miles of private ranch land, the owner of which sued the Forest Service and is appealing their case after a judge sided against them.
There will be a dedication at 11 a.m. today for the new observatory, then it'll take a couple weeks of training before the public can use it. (Idaho Parks and Recreation)
Bruneau Sand Dunes
Bruneau Dunes State Park is now home to the state’s largest night sky observatory, and visitors will be able to use the new telescope June 16.
The state park has had the same telescope for the past 25 years, and this new one is not only powerful but much more accessible. The state park is also angling for a designation from the International Dark Sky Association designation.
