Idaho is a treasure trove of secluded neighborhoods that offer the perfect balance between peaceful living and convenient access to modern amenities. Tucked away in the state’s diverse landscapes, these hidden gems provide residents with tranquil environments without sacrificing proximity to essential services.
Whether you’re drawn to the mountains, lakeshores, or rural expanses, Idaho’s secluded communities have something unique to offer. Let’s count down the top 10 neighborhoods where you can enjoy solitude while staying connected to the world around you.
10. Star Valley Ranches – Rural Luxury Near Idaho Falls
Star Valley Ranches is a picturesque community that epitomizes rural luxury in Idaho. Nestled in the serene landscapes near Idaho Falls, it offers spacious properties surrounded by rolling hills and open skies.
Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with the comfort of modern, upscale homes that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing right at your doorstep. With a small population of around 1,500, Star Valley Ranches provides a tight-knit community feel without the bustle of city life.
Where is Star Valley Ranches?
Star Valley Ranches is situated just south of Idaho Falls, close to the Wyoming border. Its location offers stunning views of the Snake River Plain and easy access to the Palisades Reservoir. The geography is particularly interesting, as it sits at the convergence of fertile valleys and rugged mountains.
To get there, you can drive south from Idaho Falls on Highway 26, then take local roads that lead directly into the heart of the community. This convenient route ensures that while residents enjoy seclusion, they’re never too far from city amenities.
9. Careywood – Forested Retreat Between Cities
Careywood is a hidden haven nestled in the dense forests between Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint. This small community offers large, wooded lots that provide ample privacy and a deep connection with nature. The quiet atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being part of a community.
Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring the nearby Farragut State Park. With an approximate population of just over 500 people, Careywood maintains a serene environment that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Careywood?
Located in northern Idaho’s Bonner County, Careywood sits conveniently along Highway 95 between Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint. The area’s geography features lush forests and rolling hills, making it ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty.
Its central location allows residents to easily access the amenities and services of both nearby cities while enjoying the tranquility of a secluded neighborhood. To reach Careywood, simply drive along Highway 95 and look for the signs that guide you into this charming forested community.
8. Owyhee Wilderness Ranches – Remote Living Within Reach of Nampa
The Owyhee Wilderness Ranches offer an exceptional opportunity for remote living without being completely isolated. These expansive ranch properties provide vast open spaces, stunning vistas, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to match.
Residents can engage in ranching, horseback riding, and exploring the rugged Owyhee landscapes. Despite its remote feel, the community remains within a manageable driving distance to Nampa’s amenities. With a sparse population spread out over large properties, it’s an ideal location for those seeking space and privacy.
Where are Owyhee Wilderness Ranches?
Situated in southwestern Idaho, the Owyhee Wilderness Ranches are located near the town of Murphy in Owyhee County. The area is characterized by its dramatic canyons, sagebrush-covered plains, and the winding Snake River.
Its unique geography makes it a fascinating place to live, offering endless horizons and dark night skies perfect for stargazing. To get there, you can take Highway 78 south from Nampa, then navigate through local roads that lead into the heart of the ranching community.
7. Elk Creek Highlands – Mountain Seclusion Close to McCall
Elk Creek Highlands is a mountain community that offers seclusion amidst Idaho’s breathtaking landscapes. Located close to the resort town of McCall, residents enjoy peaceful surroundings with easy access to outdoor recreation.
The area is dotted with secluded mountain homes, each offering panoramic views of forests and peaks. Activities like fishing in nearby streams, hiking in the Payette National Forest, and skiing at Brundage Mountain Resort are popular among locals.
With a small population, the community maintains a quiet atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation.
Where is Elk Creek Highlands?
Elk Creek Highlands is located in Valley County, just a short drive northeast of McCall. Nestled in the mountains, the area boasts interesting geography, including dense pine forests and alpine meadows.
Its proximity to McCall means residents can easily access shops, restaurants, and entertainment while enjoying the solitude of mountain living. To reach Elk Creek Highlands, you can drive along Highway 55 to McCall, then take local roads that wind into the highlands, offering scenic views along the way.
6. Sweet’s Countryside – Quiet Living Near Emmett
The rural community of Sweet is an idyllic countryside destination offering quiet living amid agricultural surroundings. Residents enjoy spacious properties surrounded by farmland, orchards, and rolling hills.
The area is perfect for those interested in farming, gardening, or simply enjoying the peace of rural life. Nearby activities include visiting local vineyards, hiking in the foothills, and participating in community events. With a population of around 100 people, Sweet offers a close-knit community feel where neighbors know each other.
Where is Sweet?
Sweet is located in Gem County, northwest of Emmett, Idaho. The geography features fertile land and gentle hills, making it ideal for agriculture and outdoor recreation. Its location is interesting as it sits at the edge of the Boise National Forest, providing easy access to wilderness areas.
To get to Sweet, you can drive north from Emmett along Highway 52, then turn onto Sweet-Ola Highway, which leads directly into the heart of the community.
5. Teton Springs – Rural Charm Near Victor
Teton Springs is a community that seamlessly blends rural charm with the comforts of modern living. Situated near Victor, Idaho, it offers expansive lots with stunning mountain views and a relaxed lifestyle.
Residents can enjoy golf, fly fishing, and access to extensive trail systems right within the neighborhood. The area also boasts a full-service resort, adding a touch of luxury to the rural setting. With a modest population, Teton Springs fosters a sense of community among its residents.
Where is Teton Springs?
Located in Teton Valley, Teton Springs is nestled against the backdrop of the Teton Mountain Range. Its interesting geography includes rolling hills, open meadows, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
The community is just a short drive from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offering additional amenities and recreational opportunities. To reach Teton Springs, you can drive south from Victor on Highway 33, then follow local signs to the community, enjoying scenic vistas along the way.
4. Mica Bay – Serene Shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene
Mica Bay is a tranquil lakeside community situated on the serene shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene. The secluded properties here offer peaceful living surrounded by water and forested hills. Residents have direct access to the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts.
The area is also home to abundant wildlife, including eagles and deer. With a small community of homeowners, Mica Bay provides a quiet retreat while fostering a sense of neighborly connection.
Where is Mica Bay?
Mica Bay is located just south of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, along Highway 95. The geography is particularly interesting due to its position on the lake’s shoreline, offering stunning water views and sunsets.
Its proximity to Coeur d’Alene means residents are a short drive away from city amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment. To get to Mica Bay, simply follow Highway 95 south from Coeur d’Alene and take one of the exits leading toward the lake’s edge.
3. Sagle’s Forest Retreats – Privacy Minutes from Sandpoint
Sagle is a community that offers the best of both worlds: large, forested lots that provide privacy and a quiet environment, just minutes from the vibrant town of Sandpoint. Residents can enjoy peaceful living surrounded by nature, with ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying Lake Pend Oreille.
The neighborhood has a relaxed atmosphere, with a small population that values the tranquility of the area. Local attractions include the Sagle Centennial Trail and Talache Beach, hidden gems known to locals.
Where is Sagle?
Sagle is situated in Bonner County, directly south of Sandpoint, Idaho. The area’s interesting geography includes lush forests, rolling hills, and close proximity to Lake Pend Oreille. This location allows residents to enjoy secluded living while being just a short drive across the bridge to Sandpoint’s shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
To reach Sagle, you can take Highway 95 south from Sandpoint and cross the Long Bridge, which offers stunning lake views en route to the community.
2. Henry’s Lake Estates – Tranquil Lakeside Living Near Yellowstone
Henry’s Lake Estates is a serene community offering tranquil lakeside living near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The spacious properties around Henry’s Lake are enveloped by majestic mountains and lush forests.
Residents can enjoy world-class fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing right outside their doors. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. With a small population, the community provides a secluded retreat while fostering close connections among neighbors.
Where is Henry’s Lake Estates?
Located in Fremont County, Henry’s Lake Estates sits near the Idaho-Montana border. Its geography is remarkable, with the pristine waters of Henry’s Lake and the surrounding Sawtell Peak.
The community is a short drive from Island Park’s amenities and just west of Yellowstone National Park, making it an ideal location for nature lovers. To get there, you can drive north from Island Park on Highway 20, then take local roads that lead directly to the estates along the lake’s shore.
1. Mores Creek Rim Ranches – Seclusion in Boise National Forest
Mores Creek Rim Ranches offers the ultimate in secluded living within the Boise National Forest. This rural neighborhood provides large, wooded lots surrounded by untouched forest land, giving residents unparalleled privacy.
The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby hot springs. Despite its seclusion, the ranches are just an hour’s drive from Boise’s amenities, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
The community is small, with only a handful of homes, ensuring a quiet and peaceful environment.
Where is Mores Creek Rim Ranches?
Situated northeast of Boise, Mores Creek Rim Ranches is accessed via Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. The geography is rugged and beautiful, characterized by dense forests, creeks, and panoramic mountain views.
The location is particularly interesting as it sits at the edge of the wilderness while still being within driving distance of the state’s capital. To get there, you can take Highway 21 from Boise, enjoy scenic vistas along the way, and turn onto the local roads that lead into the ranches.
