If a winter wonderland is on your bucket list this year, here are the top five must-do activities in McCall.

#1 Chase Fresh Tracks

Brundage SnowCat Adventures has been guiding powder-hungry skiers and snowboarders to 18,000 acres of coveted backcountry stashes since the early 90’s. Unlike your typical snowcat program, the terrain doesn’t lie adjacent to the ski area. Instead, you’ll journey several miles beyond the ski area into the Goose Creek drainage and ski or snowboard from four different mountain peaks.

#2 Enjoy Bluebird Groomers

Whether you’re a powder hound, a beginner learning the ropes, or a family looking for some playful adventure, Tamarack has you covered with fresh, fun options and legit alpine terrain. With 2,800 feet of total vertical drop, the views and the playful pitch variations make for a perfect day on the slopes. Be sure to check out the namesake Tamarack grove for a fresh twist on tree skiing. The Tamaracks drop their amber needles each fall, causing these trees to develop less intense tree wells than evergreens and creating a unique off-piste experience that powder fans won’t want to miss. And new this year for the family, “Lumberjack Land” with features like berms and whoop-di-dos, a teepee you can ski under, and lots of friendly looking characters you can high-five on your way through.

#3 Snowmobile the Backcountry

Immerse yourself in the beautiful backcountry of the Payette National Forest with a snowmobile tour from Brundage Snowmobile Adventures. For those new to the sport, a guided tour is a great way to make this high-octane adventure approachable. Tours are geared tailored to take advantage of the fresh groomed trails and lead you to magical places like Hazard Lake and Upper Payette Lake.

#4 Après Idaho Style

Nothing caps a day in the snow quite like a quality après experience. Downtown McCall has that elusive small-town charm with loads of friendly boutiques, bistros, and restaurants for a drink and a bite. We love Rupert’s at Hotel McCall for a decidedly Idaho menu. Chef Gary Kucy combines well-loved staples with adventurous eats while the bar serves up craft cocktails and an impressive wine list to match.

#5 Get Cozy

One of the best things about staying in a mountain town is taking in the view from your warm and cozy lodgings. The Glass House offers a unique take on a traditional vacation rental with stunning views of Payette Lake. With three bedrooms, two baths, ample room to hold the entire family, and two blocks from the heart of downtown McCall, this vintage showstopper is the perfect home base. Looking for something more traditional? Book a room at Hotel McCall. Built in 1904, this boutique hotel offers the warmth of a bed and breakfast with the amenities of a modern hotel.

Looking for more great ideas to plan your winter getaway in McCall, Idaho? Go to visitmccall.org to explore more activities like Nordic skiing, hot springs, fat bike riding, snowshoeing, snow biking, ice skating, and so much more.

VisitMcCall.org

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As the days grow colder, the action starts to heat up at River Riders Family Adventure Park which transforms into Snow Riders in the winter months. This new snow tubing park features 12 lanes and is the longest tubing slope on the east coast at almost three football fields long. A modern Magic Carpet conveyor lift brings you and your tube quickly back to the top of the hill so you can relax and can tube down again!

At night, the party is just getting started. Snow Riders lights up the night with a multi-color LED disco light show. Enjoy the beat of the music and changing of the light as you slide down the slopes with your family and friends.

Even if there is no natural snow on the ground, the brand new and modern snow making machines have you covered! You can go snow tubing at Snow Riders even when the temperatures are above freezing!

After a day of snow-tubing or exploring, Jefferson Counties quaint and eclectic small towns offer an incredible mix of dining options. A great way to start your day is at Sibling Coffee Roasters, a small specialty coffee roasting company located in downtown Charles Town. Sample quality micro-lot single origin green coffee from all over the world and find the one you like the best.

If you want to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, then return to Charles Town for dinner at Alfredo’s Mediterranean Steakhouse & Grille. This family-owned local favorite has been preparing traditional and modern dishes featuring foods from Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Lebanon and Morocco for over 15 years.

Since 2013, Ortega’s Taco Shop has been famous for the “best taco in town.” Featuring locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce, Ortega’s is a favorite stop for more than just tacos. Just a short walk down the street, discover Sumittra Thai Kitchen. Sumittra showcases authentic Thai flavors prepared with classic techniques. Shareable portions served in multiple courses allow diners to enjoy each dish hot out of the kitchen.

For a unique lunch or dinner, try Cocina Plantosaurus in downtown Charles Town. This Puertorican fusion restaurant is a 100% plant-based restaurant.

If a cold beer and pub food is more your style, look no further than Abolitionist Ale Works in downtown Charles Town for fun, flavorful and unique beers for every palate. Specialty pizzas, sandwiches, and appetizers complement the brews.

A brisk morning walk along the C & O Canal Towpath is the perfect way to kick off a day in Jefferson County. Enjoy beautiful views of the Potomac river as you follow the well-maintained path. Access the path by crossing the bridge in Shepherdstown into Maryland. If you stay at the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, the path is literally three minutes away.

After your morning work out, head downtown to Betty’s Restaurant for a hearty breakfast and some local color. This old-school favorite is the quintessential small town morning gathering spot for local news and great food.

After a relaxing and informative breakfast, head up the street to Four Seasons Books to find the perfect novel or “beach trash” to fill a lazy afternoon in front of a warm fire.

For more information on creating your own Jefferson County getaway, visit WhereAlmostHeavenBegins.com.

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Plumas County is more than just another winter resort. With the historical and unique hotels, B&Bs and lodges, the enchanted evenings of sparkling stars, brisk morning walks and runs, the quirky towns of this county always have something to offer their guests that makes Destination Plumas County out of the ordinary. From events to activities to relaxation, there is something for everyone to enjoy and make a lasting memory.

Chester has just opened an ice-skating rink at Chester Community Park. The rink offers 45-minute skating sessions for $5.00 per person, including skate rental: Fridays, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4:00p.m. Heat lamps and a firepit keep you toasty warm between turns on the ice while roasting marshmallows for ooey-gooey s’mores—a must for every outing. In the evenings, they offer another way to stay warm—with cocktails and other beverages. January through March. www.lakealmanorarea.com

Join a ranger-led off-trail snowshoe hike and explore the wild and wintry Red Fir Forest at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Ranger-led snowshoe hikes cover one to two miles of moderately strenuous terrain and last approximately two hours. The exact route can vary with snow and weather conditions. Meet at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, at Lassen Park, located at the Southwest Entrance via Hwy 36 to get a free ticket (first come). Hikes begin at1:30 p.m. Snowshoes (and how to put them on) are provided. To schedule a group hike, visit https://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/ranger_led_programs.htm. January through March. 530.595.4480 for more information and conditions.

The Historic Longboard Racing Revival Series takes a vintage spin on skiing at Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl! The sport of downhill ski racing began in 1861 in Onion Valley, between Quincy and La Porte. The goal is to beat the 1st-speed skier record set in 1867 of 88mph set by Cornish Bobon 12-foot-long wooden skis. This must-see (and participate-in) event is dependent on snow and weather conditions and happens at noon on every third Sunday in January through March. 530.832.4309. www.plumasskiclub.org.

Quincy, the annual Groundhog Day hosted by the Quincy Chamber of Commerce, begins at 1:00p.m. with several mini-contests, complete with prizes, throughout the afternoon. This includes“TheBach,” a bachelor/bachelorette auction; a chili cook-off; beer and wine poured; homemade goodies to taste; and vendors galore to delight any shopper. World-famous groundhog, Chuck Wood, delivers his winter prediction at 4:00 p.m. February 4, 2023,1:00p.m. www.quincychamber.com

The Chilly Chili Cook-Off, hosted by The Almanor Foundation, is a must with 15+ chilis to sample. See an ice carver turn 200lbs of ice into a fabulous sculpture; enjoy adult beverages; s’mores kits for $1 to roast over firepits; live music from the local singing dentist; a toque contest, and more. Monies to benefit the town ice skating rink. February 18, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. $10/adults; $5 for kids. For more information, visit https://almanorfoundation.networkforgood.com/events/49522-chilly-chili-cook-off

Snow, snow and more snow activities are aplenty. Not to be missed, we offer cross-country skiing through most of the county to include across beautiful Chester Meadow in the shadow of Lassen Peak, or along the west shore trail at Lake Almanor with open vistas of the lake and Dyer Mountain. We have family-friendly budget downhill skiing at Coppervale; sledding and with the“just right” snow conditions, we have dog sled races and action-packed snowmobiling. Just like frolicking in the snow?Many places you can just step out the front door of where you are lodging and make snowmen, snow angels, or have a fast-and-furious snowball fight.

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Sitting equidistant between two world-renowned resorts, the pristine Heber Valley beckons travelers to explore the extraordinary terrain and extend their days of play in this mountain town. Heber Valley offers a tranquil setting amid stunning mountain vistas, along with more adventurous outdoor play, sustainable local dining, world-class spas, and luxury lodging nestled in the foothills of the majestic mountain range. What sets this alpine valley apart is the variety of daytime to nighttime activities one can do that are unlike anywhere else in the world.

Midway Ice Castles:

A visit to the other worldly Ice Castles in Midway will leave you awe-struck and inspired. Every January and February, thousands of visitors pay a visit to explore the frozen creation, walk through icy tunnels, glide down solid ice slides, and take pictures on frozen thrones. The Midway Ice Castles contains hundreds of thousands of icicles sprawled across one acre (0.41 hectare) of open space. Visit at dusk to catch the sunset and watch the castle come alive beneath the starry night sky. Once inside, grab a hot cocoa and warm cookie, then hop on the horse drawn sleigh and ride through the lights.

Utah Crater:

Sore bodies and tired legs or simply jet lagged visitors find reprieve in the restorative natural waters of the Utah Crater. This 10,000-year-old geothermal hot spring is the only warm-water scuba certification in the lower 48 states. Guests can swim, snorkel, or scuba in 95-degree water (35° C). They even offer standup paddle board yoga classes. There’s no better way to end a day on the slopes than with a therapeutic soak.

Dog Sledding:

Float atop the snow as you meander through the wintry hillside while wrapped in a cozy sleigh as happy pups pull you along. The professional musher ensures you are warm and comfortable as you set out on a guided ride, soaking up the sun and taking in the breathtaking views. It is a very peaceful way to explore the stunning natural beauty and spend a non-ski day resting while still playing outdoors.

Olympic Venue Skiing:

And if you’re looking to trade in a day of downhill for some cross-country skiing, you’ve come to the right place. Soldier Hollow Nordic Center is the original venue from the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. This vast location provides remarkable terrain for Nordic skiing, as well as a year-round biathlon course and training facility. Athletes from around the world travel to Midway, Utah all year long to train and perfect their sport at this venue. Visitors are invited to ski on the very same trails and try their hand at biathlon while here. Soldier Hollow also boasts the longest snow tubing lanes in all of Utah-at over 1,200 feet (366m) in length! The magic carpet pulls riders and their tubes back to the top for hours of tubing fun.

Heber Valley Is The Edge Of Luxury:

Located only 50 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, a trip to Heber Valley is easy and direct. No stop lights from airport to mountain town. And, once you’ve arrived, everything is within 25 minutes or less. Park City is 20 minutes and Provo/Orem is 25 minutes. Deer Valley Resort and Sundance Mountain Resort are even shorter distances. At the Valley’s Edge, find the world-class quality amenities you expect from Utah’s ski slopes alongside space to stretch out and more to explore. The Valley’s Edge offers exceptional dining, spa, lodging, and tailored adventures to create special moments and lifelong memories that you will talk about for years to come. That’s what to expect in Heber Valley, Utah.

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Remember snow days as a kid? You’re breathless over blankets of fresh powder as your heart pounds with joy at the news–school’s canceled!

You spend the day building snow forts, launching snowballs, and sledding down the steepest hill to fill your memory bank to the brim.

Ready to embrace the pure joy of playing in a world of sparkling snow as a carefree kid?

Bend, Oregon, makes the perfect winter escape from adulthood as you burrow into a snow cave filled with boundless winter nostalgia. Find winter fun right in town and in the nearby majestic snow-capped Cascade Mountains. We’ve got everything from sledding hills to ice skating to acres of downhill terrain at Mt. Bachelor.

Cap it all off with warm, whipped cream-topped drinks around a crackling fire.

Grab your mittens, toboggan, and thermos full of hot cocoa, and let’s frolic and play the Bend way!

Sledding is undeniably one of the most giggle-worthy winter activities. When the snow gathers, every hill becomes your playground. When it snows in town, head to Drake Park, Hollinshead Park, or Al Moody Park and try your chance at beating Clark Griswold’s new amateur recreational saucer sled land speed record. As snow falls in the upper elevations, Wanoga Sno-Park is a must for tubing and sledding. A short drive from town, Wanoga is not only the gateway to great snowshoeing and dog-friendly ski trails but also an expansive sledding area with a huge warming hut at the base.

If winter nostalgia wraps you in an urge to hit the slopes, leave ample time for devouring a piping hot bowl of chili and swapping brag-worthy ski stories with friends at the lodge.

Mt. Bachelor is the Pacific Northwest’s destination winter wonderland and purveyor of epic days on the mountain. A hefty average snowfall, one of the longest winter operating seasons in the U.S., and oodles of bluebird days stack up to some serious, whimsical winter fun.

Skiers and snowboarders will relish more than 4,000 acres of terrain. For the never-have-I-ever newbie, book lessons through the “Ski or Ride in 5” program. IKON pass holders get seven days of full access at Mt.Bachelor, enough to experience the whole mountain.

Skiing Mt. Bachelor and Wanderlust Moonlight Snowshoe Tour – Visit Bend

Is strapping sticks to your feet and hurtling down a mountain not your speed? Enjoy snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, or an expedition on the wild–and furry–side with a dog-sled ride. When you’re done, refuel and quench your thirst at one of several bars and restaurants across the mountain.

While most of the snow resides in the mountains, the young-at-heart devotion to winter runs deep in Bend. Plenty of crisp days, occasional bouts of snow, and scores of recreation make the season magical. Glide and twirl on ice skates at The Pavilion. Take your latte to go and enjoy a dazzling winter walk along the Deschutes River at Drake Park. Head downtown or to the Old Mill District and shop for handmade gifts and souvenirs. If snow’s falling, grab some snowshoes for a hike through Shevlin Park and build a holly, jolly figure made of snow. Beer lovers will want to explore the territories of the Bend Ale Trail, where craft beer is served up with fire pits and cozy tasting rooms.

Bend’s the perfect place to re discover your inner kid. Join us this winter to recreate childhood memories or build new ones with your own family. Let Bend transport you to a sparkling world full of joy, magic, and mountains of fun.

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Since those early days, fortune seekers continue to flock to Deadwood looking for good luck, great drinks and incredible food. Gold may not be the targeted acquisition any longer, but Deadwood’s casinos offer opportunities to strike a modern-day fortune. Table games, sports betting and of course slot machines of all kinds await players in a variety of establishments. More than 1,700 hotel rooms, from stately, historic hotels to full-service, top-of-line casinos and resorts, from brand name chains to locally owned and operated boutique hotels, offer something for all. And the countless food and drink options give you the green light to eat and drink your way through town.

Dining in Deadwood does not disappoint. Exquisite feasts prepared by world-class chefs or local flavors like bison burgers, chislic and green chili hangover omelets mix throughout town. While the food is certainly fit for the finest palate, the atmosphere is as casual and comfortable as your favorite boots, Crocs or slippers. Just like everything in Deadwood, restaurants are a whole lot of fun. Deadwood delis and fast food restaurants offer visitors a quick meal, a light bite or a snack to keep you going. Enjoy names you know and locally owned and operated businesses. Lattes or sweet treats abound as well, with coffee shops set to hook you up with that caffeine and sugar kick you need to play well into the night. From straight up black coffee to creamy, sweet blends, Deadwood baristas brew it up right.

Wetting your whistle is easy, too. Enjoy all your favorite brews and cocktails, as well as local wines, microbrews and exclusive Deadwood concoctions in the same saloons and bars where the legends and outlaws of Deadwood drank their last drink. Walk into one of these historic establishments today and you can still see the history—from sawdust on the floor to the original oak bar top and poker tables, allowing you to enjoy today’s favorite drink with yesterday’s lore.

If one does gets caught up in lore and roar of the night before, plenty of places are ready to serve you a fancied-up bloody Mary, mimosa, or maybe a big ‘ol hand-pressed cheeseburger will get your day back on track. 

Much of Deadwood’s storied past lives on throughout town in historic museums and attractions. The dime store novel characters come to life when walking the historic cobblestone streets and bellying up to a well-worn bar that yesteryear’s miners had as perhaps their only solace. Learning Deadwood’s colorful history is far from begrudgingly turning pages in a musty history book; it’s right here, and it’s alive. And if a book is what you prefer, Deadwood’s history on a printed page is never dull. From big-name free concerts on the town’s Main Street to food, wine and brew festivals, Deadwood’s event calendar is always history making. The town has events 12 months of the year encouraging all to venture to the Wild, entertaining, West. Deadwood’s location in the heart of the Black Hills National Forest means outdoor recreation, from biking, skiing and fly fishing to hitting the trails in an off-road vehicle and snowmobile, is all at the ready. 

Deadwood’s been entertaining guests since 1876, and it’s time to see for yourself the town that’s made itself infamous.

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