McCall started out as a small logging town in the late 1800s. These days the area is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Winter transforms this family-friendly town into a wonderland of snow-capped mountains, ideal for thrilling downhill runs on skis, tubes or boards. Nordic skiing, ice skating and snowmobiling are other examples of winter fun for all ages.
Skiing
Area ski resorts offer more than 2,000 acres of well-groomed, lift-served terrain with vertical drops from 1,800 to 2,800 feet and summit elevations of nearly 8,000 feet. Snow cats guide adventure seekers on thrilling backcountry jaunts, and individual resorts offer packages that include meals and skis. Miles of meandering trails present Nordic skiers with picturesque trips through meadows and heavily wooded areas, and past ponds and lakes.
Snowmobiles and Snowshoes
McCall provides snowmobilers of varying skill levels close to 500 miles of well-maintained trails, plus thousands of pristine acres for free-riding in the backcountry. Beginners will enjoy the powdery slopes, while hillsides demand skillful maneuvering from experienced riders. Visit area rental shops for snowshoes, then take the entire family out for endless hours of fun exploring the great outdoors. Trek around town, head over to nearby Payette Lake, and take in the beauty of your natural surroundings.
Snow Tubing
McCall’s hills and ridges offer thrilling snow tube rides. Trudge uphill while holding your tube and reward yourself with an exhilarating ride back down. Or opt for a local facility providing lift-served snow tubing for a fee, which includes a lift pass and a tube. Take in the fast-moving scenery on a two-minute thrill ride on your tube after being lifted by a cable-tow 700 feet to the top. Hold on and enjoy the 85-foot drop down one of the lanes.
Ice Skating
Lace up those ice skates and enjoy the indoor rink right in the heart of McCall. The facility boasts an NHL-sized hockey rink where skaters of all ages and levels can practice their spins or coasting skills. When hunger strikes, head to the convenient onsite eatery for a healthy, nutritious meal. Visit the arcade and play some games before returning to the rink. The venue rents skates for use while in the facility. Various blade-sharpening services are available for a fee.
Carnival Fun
During late January and early February, McCall hosts its annual Winter Carnival, which dates back to 1924. While the first carnival spanned just three days, the event now takes place over a 10-day period. Each day has something fun to keep everyone entertained. Participate in the madcap snowshoe golfing event or snow tube racing. Enter the kids in a snowman building contest. Admire the stunning snow sculpture entries on display. Enjoy some music, dancing, parades and fireworks.
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