Everyone has a place that is special to them. When you are there you feel something special. For some it is the Ocean and for some it is a Mountain top. We all have a place like this that makes us feel special and it warms our heart. We visit these places and don't want to leave.
For me, this is what Owyhee County in the S.W. corner of Idaho does for me. I go against the flow from most Idahoans. Most Idaho residents and visitors seek the high forested mountains of central and northern Idaho and the beautiful canyons of eastern Idaho. I don't know if it is the little Indian blood I have in me but when most are seeking high forest mountains and beautiful seas, you will find me as content as a human can be in the Owyhee Mountains. Owyhee County is the 2nd largest county of Idaho and the residents are typically large ranchers with thousands of acres each and some BLM goverment land.
My dad first took me mule deer hunting in Owyhee County as a young kid and I was hooked. The landscape is mostly healthy sage brush, juniper trees and scattered pine trees. There are areas that are as flat as a table, some with rolling hills and yet others with massive mountains. I live about ½ hour from the border of Owyhee County and one can see the mountains of Owyhee County from adjoining Canyon County where I live.
The Snake River borders Owyhee County on the North and east. Oregon borders it on the west, and Nevada borders it on the south. There are two major rivers that run through the county known as the Bruneau and Owyhee Rivers. A lesser known but awesome river is the Jarbridge River. Some friends of mine and I are planning a 5 day float trip down the Jarbridge next spring. Outfitters and friends tell us we will never be the same after the trip. The scenery and wildlife is second to none and we will encounter some of the most incredible canyons and as high as 4-5 class rapids in some areas. We have been told to bring our fishing poles as there are world class trout in the rivers.
In my rodeo days of the 70's I had friend whose father owned a big ranch in Reynolds Creek which is a spectacular and beautiful area. Once a year his dad would have a Rocky Mountain Oyster feed. For those that don't know what Rocky Mountain Oysters are, they are what cut off of a bull that makes them a steer. I know many of you are saying yuck but I can assure you they are awesome. These were some of the best years of my life.
You may have heard about Claude Dallas who killed two fish and game officers in 1981. Dallas was arrested and convicted after a long man hunt and then escaped in 1985 only to be captured again. A television movie was made about this incredible story which made national news. The heart of Owyhee County is where Claude Dallas made his home when he was approached by the two fish and game officers. Owyhee County is known for trophy size mule deer, antelope and desert elk. Coyote, fox and birds of prey are also a very common site along with hundreds of other birds and animals.
A gold and silver mining boom took place in the 2nd half of the 19th century which is the time that Silver City became a booming mining town. Silver City is now a historic town that has been left in tact as it was 100 years ago. Silver City is about an hour drive from where I live.
The history of Native Indians in the United States is alive and well in Owyhee County. Even today there is evidence of the Native Indians and thousands of arrowheads have been found in the county. It is easy to see why Native Indians loved this place and whey they thrived there. I can honestly say that there are parts of Owyhee County I could live at very easily even though they are miles from civilization.
So when you are sitting on the beach drinking your pina colada or on a high mountain top in South America think of me in my little world where I am so content in my own little Owyhee County of Idaho.
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Posted By: George Tallabas - Boise Idaho Real Estate Agent - Associate Broker
with RE/MAX Advantage, Canyon Counties #1 Brokerage in sales and listings
specializing in Boise Idaho Real Estate and Southwest Idaho Real Estate.
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