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The small town of Lowman is a real treasure in Boise County. Most of the homes here are in small subdivisions adjoining forest land.
The day I visited was one of those amazing winter days when the landscape sparkles under a brilliant blue sky. I listened to the quiet for a moment. It was so still, I couldn't help but wonder: If I lived here, what would I find to do in the winter?
Determined to find out, I wrapped my scarf a bit more snugly, grabbed my camera in my gloved hand, and set out for a short walk.
First, I see the little red one-room schoolhouse. Part of the Garden Valley School District, the Lowman Elementary School consistently ranks first among elementary schools in Idaho, beating out 320 schools statewide.
The school's six students enjoy cross-country skiing and sledding in the winter. In the summer, the kids grow a large vegetable garden on the school grounds.
With just 150 people living in Lowman year round, it is a treat to see some neighbors out enjoying the sunshine. I pause for a moment to chat with Don and Joann.
Folks here are quick to help out a friend in need, but also respect each other's desire for solitutude. People in the surrounding communities often mention what a great place Lowman is, and how much they like the people there.
I walk less than 100 yards before I come across several elk bedded down under large ponderosa pines.
I try not to disturb them, because I know how important it is that they conserve their energy in the winter, but this one decides to hop up and put a little more distance between us.
Further down the road, I cross the South Fork of the Payetter River. In the summer, kayakers and rafters flock to downstream sections of this river to test their skills on Class IV and Class V rapids. This particular section is not as popular, so the occassional brightly-colored kayak passing by in the summer is a welcome sight.
The river also offers anglers the opportunity to catch native rainbow trout. Otters, bald eagles, hawks, and Canadian geese are every-day residents.
I stop for a moment to visit with some folks from Boise who are preparing for a snowmobile ride into Bear Valley with their cocker spaniel.
For a snowmobiler, Lowman is a dream come true. Hundreds of miles of trails in the Boise National Forest and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area can be accessed from many of the properties in town. There's no need to even trailer your sleds!
Kirkham Hot Springs steams in the chill winter air, inviting soakers to relax. For locals, it is easy to grab towels and a bottle of wine to enjoy one of the four large hot springs located in the area.
With lots starting at just $20,000 it is easy to find just the right lot to build your dream cabin in the woods. Of course, your cabin might just be waiting for you already. Homes are for sale ranging from $45,000 to $265,000, Garden Valley Real Estate can help you find it.
Just don't be surprised if the search for your dream cabin ends in Lowman!
Thanks for taking a winter walk with me!
-Dawn
Garden Valley Real Estate
WWW.GardenValleyRealEstate.info
dawn@gardenvalleyrealestate.info
(208) 861-0734
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