By Claire Taylor
Things to Do in McCall, Idaho
McCall is a small Idaho town of just over two thousand people. However, and thanks to the heavy tourism, the population of McCall is usually three times that. Lots of mountains, lakes and forests make this a great destination for those looking to spend time outdoors, both in summer and winter. Accommodation for all budgets are also available here, although
resort-type, high-end hotels are more popular.
Payette Lake
Payette Lake is McCall's main attraction, bringing tons of families, singles and seniors to the area year round. Most visitors come over during the summer to try the many water sports popular in the lake, including canoeing, kayaking and water-skiing. There are cabins for rent through companies such as Vamoose.com and lots of restaurants around the lake and rafting and fishing are also popular. For those who prefer to explore the surroundings a little more, there are also miles of hiking routes that border the lake. For those arriving during the winter season, opportunities for snowshoeing abound, as McCall gets a significant amount of snow between November and March.
Vamoose's Central Office
909 N. Sepulveda Blvd.
11th Floor
El Segundo, CA 90245
vamoose.com
Manchester Ice Center
Those staying in town would do well stopping by the ice skating ring. If the local hockey team, the McCall Mountaineers, is playing, it may be worth it to get tickets and have some fun cheering for the players. Otherwise, families can rent a pair of skates and take to the ring themselves. On weekends where the team is not playing, there are usually skating lessons, curling matches and all sorts of musical or skating shows presented. A nice indoor cafe offers visitors a chance to enjoy a cup of coffee or a slice of pizza during intermission or before heading back into town.
Manchester Ice & Event Centre
200 E. Lake St.
McCall, Idaho 83638
(208) 634-3570
Activity Barn
If you ever wanted to try snowtubing, this is definitively the place to do it. Open from late autumn to early spring (dates vary depending on the amount of snow left on the ground), the Activity Barn offers a way to race down the mountains that even the little ones will enjoy. Visitors are carried up the mountain (700 feet) through a cable connected directly to the tubes and can then choose one of four lanes to make their way down, depending on their skill level, age and comfort. An hour pass costs $13 and there is no limit to the number of rides up the mountain visitors can take. During the summer, Activity Barn turns into a working cattle ranch, offering hayrides, horseriding and other outdoor activities.
Activity Barn
South of McCall off of Moonridge Road
(208) 634-2222
About the Author:
Claire Taylor is a health, wellness and travel writer with credits in publications such as "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." Taylor is also a seasoned independent traveler, as well as a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant.
Photo Credits:
Benjamin Earwicker
