Introduction
Cascade, Idaho, is a picturesque town located in Valley County in the central part of the state. Nestled in the scenic Payette River Mountains, Cascade is known for its stunning natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and lakes. The town is part of the United States and serves as the county seat of Valley County. It has a population of approximately 1,000 residents, providing a close-knit community atmosphere.
Covering an area of around 4.5 square miles, Cascade offers a mix of outdoor recreational opportunities and small-town charm. One of the town’s notable landmarks is Lake Cascade, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. Additionally, Cascade is home to the Cascade Golf Course, which provides residents and visitors with a picturesque setting to enjoy a round of golf.
While Cascade does not have large universities or major companies, it is known for its vibrant local businesses and community-focused events. The town is a gateway to the surrounding natural attractions, including the Payette National Forest, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Climate and Weather Overview
Cascade experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. The town receives a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year, supporting its lush green landscapes and vibrant plant life.
Average Temperature, Precipitation, and Sunny Days
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Average Precipitation (in) | Average Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 10 | 3.8 | 10 |
| February | 36 | 12 | 3.2 | 11 |
| March | 44 | 18 | 2.8 | 12 |
| April | 54 | 25 | 2.1 | 15 |
| May | 64 | 32 | 2.2 | 18 |
| June | 72 | 38 | 1.7 | 20 |
| July | 82 | 43 | 1.0 | 25 |
| August | 81 | 41 | 1.2 | 24 |
| September | 71 | 34 | 1.4 | 21 |
| October | 57 | 27 | 2.2 | 17 |
| November | 40 | 19 | 3.4 | 11 |
| December | 31 | 12 | 3.8 | 10 |
Detailed Weather by Month
January
Weather Overview: January in Cascade is cold, with average high temperatures around 31°F and lows around 10°F. The month receives about 3.8 inches of precipitation, primarily in the form of snow.
Natural Disasters: January is typically free from major natural disasters, though heavy snowfalls and occasional snowstorms can disrupt daily activities and transportation.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Visiting local museums, enjoying cozy cafes, and participating in community events at the Cascade Community Center.
- Outdoor Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking in the nearby Payette National Forest.
February
Weather Overview: February sees slightly warmer temperatures with average highs of 36°F and lows of 12°F. Precipitation decreases slightly to 3.2 inches, mostly snow.
Natural Disasters: Like January, February can experience occasional snowstorms and ice storms.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Attending local theater performances, exploring historical sites, and participating in community events.
- Outdoor Activities: Ice skating, sledding, and enjoying winter sports.
March
Weather Overview: March brings milder weather with average highs of 44°F and lows of 18°F. The month receives about 2.8 inches of precipitation, with a mix of rain and snow.
Natural Disasters: March can occasionally have late winter storms, leading to heavy snowfall or ice.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Visiting local libraries and indoor markets.
- Outdoor Activities: Early spring hikes and maple sugaring events.
April
Weather Overview: April’s weather is pleasant with average highs of 54°F and lows of 25°F. Precipitation is around 2.1 inches, primarily rain.
Natural Disasters: April can experience spring storms and occasional flooding due to melting snow.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Participating in community workshops and art exhibits.
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, bird watching, and exploring blooming gardens.
May
Weather Overview: May is warm with average highs of 64°F and lows of 32°F. The month receives about 2.2 inches of precipitation.
Natural Disasters: May can experience thunderstorms, but it is generally a pleasant month weather-wise.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Attending music festivals and indoor sporting events.
- Outdoor Activities: Gardening, hiking, and participating in outdoor markets and fairs.
June
Weather Overview: June is warm with average highs of 72°F and lows of 38°F. Precipitation is around 1.7 inches, with occasional thunderstorms.
Natural Disasters: Thunderstorms are common in June, with a potential for severe weather including flash floods.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Visiting museums, enjoying indoor concerts, and attending summer camps.
- Outdoor Activities: Swimming, fishing, and enjoying local festivals and fairs.
July
Weather Overview: July is the hottest month with average highs of 82°F and lows of 43°F. It receives about 1.0 inch of precipitation.
Natural Disasters: Thunderstorms are frequent, with the potential for severe weather including flash floods and high winds.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Enjoying air-conditioned venues like movie theaters and shopping malls.
- Outdoor Activities: Water-based activities, visiting local rivers and lakes, and attending Independence Day celebrations.
August
Weather Overview: August remains warm with average highs of 81°F and lows of 41°F. Precipitation is around 1.2 inches.
Natural Disasters: August can have thunderstorms and occasional heatwaves.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Participating in indoor sports, visiting aquariums, and exploring science museums.
- Outdoor Activities: Beach outings, boating, and outdoor concerts.
September
Weather Overview: September cools down with average highs of 71°F and lows of 34°F. The month sees about 1.4 inches of precipitation.
Natural Disasters: September is generally calm, though thunderstorms can still occur.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Attending fall-themed indoor events, art classes, and community meetings.
- Outdoor Activities: Fall festivals, visiting pumpkin patches, and enjoying nature walks.
October
Weather Overview: October has mild weather with average highs of 57°F and lows of 27°F. Precipitation is about 2.2 inches.
Natural Disasters: October is typically free from major natural disasters.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Exploring historical museums, participating in craft fairs, and attending indoor Halloween events.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoying fall foliage, attending outdoor markets, and visiting local farms.
November
Weather Overview: November is cooler with average highs of 40°F and lows of 19°F. The month receives about 3.4 inches of precipitation.
Natural Disasters: November is generally calm but can experience occasional early winter storms.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Attending Thanksgiving events, visiting indoor craft fairs, and enjoying indoor sports.
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking in cooler weather, visiting holiday markets, and starting to prepare for winter activities.
December
Weather Overview: December is relatively cold with average highs of 31°F and lows of 12°F. Precipitation is around 3.8 inches, with potential for snow.
Natural Disasters: December can see occasional snowstorms and icy conditions.
Recommended Activities:
- Indoor Activities: Enjoying holiday-themed events, visiting shopping centers, and participating in community gatherings.
- Outdoor Activities: Holiday light tours, winter bird watching, and attending outdoor holiday markets.
Cascade, Idaho, with its varied climate and rich history, offers a range of activities and experiences throughout the year. Whether you are interested in exploring the great outdoors or enjoying cultural events, there is always something to do in this charming town.