Attractions and Adventure
Photo: McCall Winter Carnival
1. McCall Winter Carnival
McCall, ID
visitmccall.org/events/winter-carnival
What started in the 1960s as a small, local get-together has blossomed into an iconic Idaho event, bringing more than 60,000 people to McCall’s permanent population of 3,000 residents each year. The 2020 Carnival will be held Jan. 24 through Feb. 2 and in addition to its famous snow sculpting competition, where artists from all parts of the country show off their talents on an enormous, bright-white scale (thanks to 300+ inches of snowfall annually), the event hosts parades, live music and daily events, covering everything from comedy acts to dog-sled pulls. The one thing you’ll never say in the tiny town of McCall is, “I’m bored.”
Stay and Play
Photo: Drew Garcia
2. Redemption Rock Lodge & Lookout Tower
6640 S. Stateline Road, Post Falls, ID 83854
425-229-1454
redemptionrocklodge.com
vrbo.com/645979 (lodge) vrbo.com/1643418 (tower)
Do you want to get away … or do you really want to get away? Steve Wynecoop has the answer for both. Redemption Rock Lodge, located on 950 private acres and just a stone’s throw from its namesake (which boasts spectacular sunset hikes), is a luxurious 5,400-square-foot log retreat with two great rooms, two kitchens and room to sleep 20.
But if something off the beaten path is what you seek, give Steve’s brand new lookout tower, perched at an elevation of 4,200 feet, a try. The accommodations are rustic: There are no fancy amenities — there’s not even running water (though there is a composting toilet) — but the quiet solitude and the views of this hiking destination are unbeatable.
Dine and Shop
Photo: Idaho Tourism
1. Stanley Baking Company & Café
250 Wall St.,
Stanley, ID 83278
208-774-6573
Hope you’re hungry because the portions at Stanley Baking Company are almost as huge as the Sawtooth Mountains that surround it. Serving breakfast from 7 a.m. til 11 a.m. and lunch until 2 p.m., the scrumptious baked goods and charming cabin setting have made it a Stanley staple for two decades. But you’ll have to wait out the winter to sample their tasty treats — it’s closed November through April. Ask the locals, and they’ll tell you it’s worth the wait.
Log Home Companies
Photo: PrecisionCraft Log & Timber Homes
1. PrecisionCraft Log & Timber Homes
711 E. Broadway Ave., Meridian, ID 83642
800-729-1320
PrecisionCraft has earned its reputation for innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship for a reason. Offering an award-winning in-house architectural firm (M.T.N Design) and a total home solution, the houses they create are nothing short of impeccable. While you’re out and about on your Road Trip, you can stop by their Meridian showroom to view their projects, 3D models, SIP and ICF displays, and corner exhibits, but if you really want some in-depth info, make sure to call in advance to speak with a expert representative. And if you want to learn a little more about them before you hit the road, check out their free webinars at precisioncraft.com/about/events.