Historic Idaho 55 Lodge Sold as New Owners Plan Expansion

What's Happening? The historic Cougar Mountain Lodge in Smith's Ferry, Idaho, has been sold to a family from McCall. The lodge, which has been a local landmark since 1941, was originally listed for $1.6 million in 2024 but sold for an undisclosed amount after a price reduction to $875,000. The new o

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What is the story about?

What's Happening?

The historic Cougar Mountain Lodge in Smith's Ferry, Idaho, has been sold to a family from McCall. The lodge, which has been a local landmark since 1941, was originally listed for $1.6 million in 2024 but sold for an undisclosed amount after a price reduction

to $875,000. The new owners plan to continue operating the restaurant and expand the convenience store's offerings. They also aim to restore lodging services, which were previously converted to employee housing during the COVID-19 pandemic due to local housing affordability issues. The lodge will now operate seven days a week, enhancing its service availability.

Why It's Important?

The sale of Cougar Mountain Lodge marks a significant transition for a historic property in Idaho, reflecting broader trends in real estate and local business operations. The new owners' plans to expand services and restore lodging could boost local tourism and provide economic benefits to the Smith's Ferry area. The decision to maintain the lodge as a family-run business aligns with community values and preserves the site's historical significance. Additionally, the move to restore lodging services addresses previous housing challenges faced by employees, potentially improving staff retention and service quality.