We’re sharing a weekend itinerary just like the locals might take. You’ll need a car for this one, and be sure to plan ahead and grab any gear you might need beforehand!

Day One

Morning & Afternoon: Ski Time

Just 90 minutes north of Boise, Tamarack Resort is your one-stop shop for winter alpine adventures. The award-winning resort offers everything you need: on-site vacation rentals, dining, shopping, and year-round community events. Check into mountainside lodging, just steps away from first tracks!

With 300 annual inches of snowfall blanketing 1,100 acres of lift-accessible terrain, every run delivers thrills. Crave groomed corduroy? You’ve got it! Dream of open bowls and steep drops? Those are waiting for you, too! This resort is a well-kept secret, which means smaller crowds and terrain that feels endless. Just how the locals like it.

Evening: Mountain Dining

After carving up the mountain, relax and unwind in The Village, an alpine-style, pedestrian-friendly town center offering shopping and dining at the base of the mountain. From classy cocktails and fine dining to taphouse brews, pizza, and ice cream, you’ll find exactly what your apres-ski mood craves. Check out Tamarack’s calendar to learn about weekly events and live music.

Local’s Tip: Check Tamarack’s conditions before you decide on plans by checking their live webcams.

Day Two

Morning: Ice Fishing

Start your morning on the back of a snowmobile watching the sun rise, then follow your guide as they lead you on the frozen lake for an ice-fishing experience that is pure mountain magic. Sip hot coffee under crisp blue skies, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, while pulling jumbo yellow perch through the ice.

Afternoon: McCall

When you’ve caught your fill of perch, head north to McCall. If you need to warm up, grab your second cup of coffee at Mountain Java. Indulge in a locally baked treat. And, with hot mug in hand, wander Legacy Park and the lake front while you soak up the snowy mountain views stretching in every direction. 

Next, it’s time to explore the alpine village streets. Pop into the local artisan shops and discover treasures made by mountain makers. Feeling playful? Hit the Manchester Ice and Event Center for an afternoon ice skating session.

Evening: Dinner and Zzz

When hunger strikes, walk to Salmon River Brewery, housed in a historic train depot in the heart of downtown. Year-round outdoor seating on the heated patio offers incredible views of the lake as the sun paints the mountains golden and pink. Savor delicious bites and local brews while the lighted trees start to twinkle on Main Street. Enjoy an after-dinner walk through the snow-dusted streets before checking into Hotel McCall. Lakefront views and historic charm will make you want to extend your stay indefinitely.

Day Three

Morning: Ponderosa

The famous Crab Benedict at the Fogglifter Café will properly fuel you for the day ahead. And you’ll want it, too, because it’s time for a snowshoe trek. Just a mile from downtown, Ponderosa State Park transforms into a wonderland in the winter. The trail network criss-crosses a peninsula extending into Payette Lake, offering groomed Nordic trails and quiet snowshoe paths that explore quiet, snow-blanketed marshes and frosted forests.

Afternoon: Springs

Swing by Stax for homemade soups and sandwiches on bread that’s baked fresh daily. Then head south to Gold Fork Hot Springs. Nestled in the mountains, these cascading soaking pools are the perfect finale to your winter escape. Sink your tired muscles into the mineral rich hot water while winters’ quiet melodies create the perfect soundtrack. Breathe deep. Hear the wind in the pines, the distant bird calls, your own contented sights. Relax.

The Mountains are Waiting

Southwest Idaho’s winter wonderland is calling your name. From untouched powder, frosted pines and meandering snowshoe trails to steaming springs and cozy mountain towns, this is what winter should feel like. Adventure, with a cozy cup of cocoa. Start planning your escape today!