Contrary to outsiders’ popular belief, Idaho has so much to offer all year round. Longtime residents know just what makes our magnificent state so great in the summer and winter months. We all know Idaho has an abundance of land reserved for recreational use, but just what do we like to use it for? Our state has no shortage of ski resorts (18 in total), hot springs, parks, trails, and land open for snowmobile use, for all of its’ residents to use. We polled our office to discover our team’s top destinations to enjoy their winter months with family and friends.

McCall 

The first destination on our list is McCall. Only two hours from Boise, McCall is probably already on your radar; if not, add it to your must- see list. With an average of 130 inches of snowfall per year, this little town has become quite the attraction in the winter months. What’s even better is the RedLine location on the way into town. This makes it so easy to reserve a toy and not have to worry about hauling it all the way to your end destination. Whether you stay indoors or traverse the outdoors, there’s something for everyone. 

Burgdorf is our first must- see in McCall that you’re sure to enjoy. This amazing little resort is home to hot springs that are a long- standing McCall feature. During the summer months, Burgdorf is accessible by all vehicles; but during the winter, the only way to get there is by snowmobile. 

The McCall Winter Carnival has a longstanding tradition dating all the way back to 1924. Each year, thousands of people flood McCall to enjoy the events, from their famous snow sculptures, to the snow-bike races and Monster Dog Pull. This year, the Carnival is running from January 25th to February 3rd with the theme of Legends, Myths, and Superheroes. 

Another key to the heart of McCall are the two major ski resorts located within 30 minutes of the town. Tamarack Resort and Brundage Mountain Resort  are two resorts that every skier and snowboarder should visit while in Idaho. Easy to get to, with lessons for every level, they are both complete with a variety of terrain to suit everyone’s interests. 

Sun Valley

When you think of Idaho athletics, ice hockey may not be the first sport that comes to mind. Along with the team everyone knows about, the Sun Valley Suns are located in Hailey- a short drive from Sun Valley. If you don’t feel like being outside, go cheer on the local team at the ice rink. Plus, if that inspires you, the rink also offers a public skate period for adults and children.  

Snowmobiling in Idaho is a beloved sport; and there are great trails located all over the state. A few worth mentioning: Baker Creek, Fairfield, and Galena Pass. There are over 300 miles of groomed trails and open play areas in the region, with the option of guided or unguided tours. Don’t forget to check regulations before you head out, as not all areas are open for traffic. 

Coeur d’ Alene

We were happy to welcome a new team and store to our RedLine family this past year. The new location is located less than 20 minutes from the heart of Coeur d’ Alene  and has great access to all kinds of activities in the surrounding cities. 

It’s no surprise that more snowmobiling locations are making the list. The two major areas worth mentioning include Roman Nose and Canuck Basin in the Selkirk and Purcell Mountains, respectively. Once again, open play areas and groomed trails grace this region, making this northern Idaho area a mecca for all kinds of snow sports. 

Stanley

Stanley, Idaho is a bit of a under-discovered gem, in our opinion. Idaho locals know about the town and all it has to offer, but outsiders don’t always know about this well- kept secret. 

If you like being outside in the cold, with the crisp air and untouched snow around you, try backcountry skiing. There are a ton of options for trails and guided tours in this area, with unmatched terrain and untouched powder.  

If skiing isn’t your speed, try snowshoeing or sledding instead. Take a slower pace with snowshoeing into Redfish Lake; or ride down a hill with a sled or even a laundry basket. There are options for both activities near the Sawtooth Mountains or Park Creek and the surrounding areas that are sure to bring fun for everyone.

Boise

It may seem obvious, but a lot of our team loves to stay close to home during the colder months! Luckily, Boise has a ton of activities to offer to those of us who like to stay indoors and outdoors when the weather turns.  

 

Bogus Basin is a ski and snowboard resort – complete with a tubing hill for those of us less coordinated individuals- that has been around since 1942. Only about an hour away from the Boise city center, this is a must for families that don’t want the hassle of driving too far to get their snow- sport fill.  

Winter Garden aGlow is a holiday light show developed by the Idaho Botanical Garden that boasts a stunning display of over 400,000 lights over almost the entire garden. This amazing show runs from November 22 to January 1, rain or shine, and during holidays! 

We would be remiss in not mentioning the Idaho Potato Drop on New Years’ Eve.  This new-ish event started six years ago and is a free community event that supports local businesses, arts, and charities. With activities for children and adults, plus the giant potato drop at midnight, this is an event that has brought notoriety to Boise and that many enjoy. 

Honorable mentions:

• Ashton Dog Derby- Ashton, ID

• Bonneville Hot Springs- Boise National Forest, ID 

• Idaho City Yurts- Idaho City, ID 

• Island Park Cabins and snowmobiling- Island Park, ID