MCCALL

www.mccallchamber.org

Idahoans love to brag about experiencing all four seasons, and in McCall there is plenty to do in each one.

The atmosphere of the town encourages all to channel their inner outdoorsman — even those who consider 5 minutes with cable TV to be “roughing it.” Whether it’s hiking, boating, hitting the snowy slopes, camping, playing golf, fishing, kicking back enjoying the view of Payette Lake or reading by a cabin fireplace, McCall is a nice escape into nature from the usual routine in the Treasure Valley.

The 100-mile drive up Idaho 55 to McCall twists and flows along the Payette River, around hills and through meadows, and changes with the time of the year. In summer, the sun and pines beg for car windows and sunroofs to be open, and when they are silenced and hidden by snow, it’s just as beautiful. It’s easy for the mind to wander en route, until an F-350 careens around a sharp, narrow curve and squeezes by in the opposite direction.

For the last 47 years, McCall has hosted the Winter Carnival, featuring snow sculptures, a Mardi Gras parade and other lively events perfect with a warm beverage in hand. The next Winter Carnival is Jan. 25-Feb. 3, 2013, which leaves plenty of time to explore the meandering shoreline of Payette Lake down Warren Wagon Road or ride a snowmobile through the woods to the north.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

• Stanley, www.stanleycc.org

• Sun Valley, www.visitsunvalley.com

• Idaho City, www.idahocitychamber.com

• Shoshone Falls, www.twinfallschamber.com