Filer, ID
County: Twin Falls
History
Filer, Idaho is a small city located in Twin Falls County in southern Idaho, United States. The area where Filer is currently located was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shoshone and Bannock tribes.
European-American settlers began to arrive in the area in the late 1870s. The town of Filer was established in 1906 with the arrival of the Oregon Short Line Railroad. It was named after Walter G. Filer, a former general manager of the Twin Falls Canal Company, which was responsible for diverting water from the Snake River to irrigate the dry landscape.
Filer saw rapid growth in its early years, thanks to the development of agriculture in the region. The area's fertile soil and access to irrigation water from the Snake River made it ideal for farming. Crops like sugar beets, potatoes, barley, and alfalfa were grown, and the town became known as the "Sugar Beet Capital of the World."
In addition to agriculture, Filer had a thriving dairy industry. The town became a major center for dairy processing, and the first cheese factory in Idaho was established in Filer in 1917. The dairy industry and its related businesses continue to be an important part of Filer's economy to this day.
Filer faced challenges during the Great Depression, like many other cities across the United States. However, it managed to survive and recover from the economic downturn. The construction of the Magic Reservoir in the 1970s also brought additional water resources to the area and contributed to the city's growth and economic development.
Today, Filer remains a small but vibrant community. Its economy is still largely based on agriculture, including farming, dairy, and food processing. The city has a population of around 2,500 people and offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Filer's rich history and agricultural heritage are celebrated each year with the Filer Fun Days, a community festival that includes parades, live music, rodeo events, and various family-friendly activities. The festival attracts both locals and visitors, highlighting the importance of Filer's community spirit and deep-rooted traditions.
Attractions
Twin Falls County Fair
Filer is known for its annual fair held in September, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, and various entertainment options.
Snake River Canyon Rim Trails
Just a short drive from Filer, you can explore the beautiful Snake River Canyon by following the rim trails. The trails offer stunning views of the canyon and the iconic Perrine Bridge.
Shoshone Falls
Located near Filer, Shoshone Falls is often referred to as the "Niagara of the West." It is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States and offers picturesque views and recreational activities.
Herret Center for Arts and Sciences
Part of the College of Southern Idaho, the Herrett Center houses a museum, a planetarium, and an observatory. It offers educational exhibits and programs for people of all ages.
Magic Valley Speedway
If you enjoy car racing, you can visit the Magic Valley Speedway in nearby Twin Falls. The speedway hosts various racing events throughout the year.
Rock Creek Park
Located in Filer, Rock Creek Park offers a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park covers a vast area with scenic beauty.
Filer Historical Museum
Explore the local history of Filer at the Filer Historical Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the town's past.
Golfing
Filer is home to several excellent golf courses, including Canyon Springs Golf Course and Twin Falls Golf Club. These courses offer challenging holes and scenic views.
Fishing
Filer is surrounded by rivers and lakes that provide ample fishing opportunities. You can try your luck at catching trout, bass, or catfish in places like the Snake River, Salmon Falls Creek, or Crystal Springs Reservoir.
Outdoor Recreation
Filer and its surrounding areas offer plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, hunting, and boating. There are several parks, trails, and wildlife areas nearby where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Idaho.
Climate
Filer, Idaho has a semi-arid climate. The town experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summer (June to August) in Filer is hot and dry. Average high temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (29-33 degrees Celsius), with occasional peaks in the 100s Fahrenheit (37+ degrees Celsius). The area receives little rainfall during the summer months.
Autumn (September to November) in Filer is cool and transitionary. Temperatures gradually cool down, with highs in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius) in September, dropping to the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-15 degrees Celsius) by November. The area receives slightly more rainfall during this time, often in the form of light showers.
Winter (December to February) in Filer is cold with occasional snowfall. High temperatures range from the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (-1 to 5 degrees Celsius), with lows dropping into the 20s and teens (-6 to -12 degrees Celsius) during the coldest nights. Snow is common, and Filer typically receives around 20 inches (51 cm) of snowfall per year.
Spring (March to May) in Filer is mild and sees temperatures gradually warming up. Highs climb from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius) in March to the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius) in May. Spring is usually the wettest season, with increased rainfall compared to other times of the year.
Overall, Filer, ID experiences hot, dry summers, and cold winters with occasional snow. The area receives an average of 10 inches (25 cm) of precipitation per year, with most of it falling between late winter and spring.
Neighborhoods
Filer, Idaho is a small city located in Twin Falls County. It is known for its rural atmosphere and friendly community. Although it is a small city, Filer has different neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Filer:
Downtown Filer
This is the heart of the city, where you will find the main commercial area. It features small businesses, shops, restaurants, and services. The downtown area also hosts community events and festivals throughout the year.
Northeast Filer
This residential area is characterized by quiet streets and a mix of housing options. It is a family-friendly neighborhood with several parks and recreational facilities nearby. You can find single-family homes, apartment complexes, and some larger properties in this area.
Southeast Filer
This neighborhood is located near the Filer High School and Tendoy Elementary School. It is predominantly residential, with a mix of housing options ranging from modest single-family homes to more upscale properties. The area offers a suburban feel and is popular with families.
Northwest Filer
This neighborhood is located on the outskirts of town, offering a more rural atmosphere. It features larger lots and more spacious properties, including farmhouses and ranch-style homes. The area is known for its scenic views, open spaces, and a slower-paced lifestyle.
Southwest Filer
This neighborhood is situated near the Filer Middle School and some small industrial areas. It is a mix of residential and commercial properties. The area offers a range of housing options, from affordable homes to larger properties. It is conveniently located near amenities such as shopping centers and restaurants.
Overall, Filer's neighborhoods each offer a unique ambiance, from the bustling downtown area to the quiet rural outskirts. The city's small size means that all neighborhoods are within close proximity to each other, fostering a sense of community throughout the entire area.