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We can all agree that potatoes are the best vegetable, right?
Being a state with license plates proudly boasting “famous potatoes”, one of America’s trendiest cities is a foodie lover’s dream with Boise’s creative vodka concoctions, fries over burgers attitude, and spud-tacular pillowy donuts.
Besides the sensational food scene and college football’s only bright blue playing field, Boise is one of America’s biggest surprises for travelers.
In fact, those who have visited from the West Coast realized its appeal, ultimately creating a real estate boom in one of America’s most underrated capitals.
Come summer, though, Boise’s splendid weather can turn to triple digits—all the more reason to explore more of what Idaho has to offer, especially deep-diving into the state’s numerous natural wonders, whether cascading waterfalls or staggering mountains. Scenic lakes become the ideal retreat to combat the summer heat.
You might think celeb hotspot Coeur d’Alene is Idaho’s ultimate lakeside hideaway, but there’s another little-known town offering astounding scenery, plentiful ways to cool down, and cozy waterfront lodges with far better rates.
McCall: Idaho’s Best Kept Secret
McCall is a year-round destination favored mainly by locals to hit the slopes, unwind in nature, or simply escape the headaches of Boise’s newfound fame.
This town of roughly 4,000 residents isn’t on many travelers’ radars outside of locals in the know, but it’s time for that to change.
Like many charming small town getaways, McCall is also deeply rooted in the gold rush, having stood the test of time to become the rustic lakeside haven it is today.
Although anchored by 3rd Avenue’s row of down-home eats, local brews, and old-timey inns, McCall’s real draw is the ancient glacial Payette Lake, a stunning postcard-worthy expanse of vibrant blue water with depths of nearly 400 feet and spanning over 5,000 acres.
Ponderosa State Park Is A Must
To enjoy both the thrills and calm of Payette Lake, Ponderosa State Park should top your list.
There are small, yet tranquil, beaches to relax on the shores or you can opt for more aquatic adventure by renting a paddleboard or kayak, and trout fishing and boating offer endless ways to enjoy the lake’s beauty — or trek inland through the winding trails through lush forestry surrounding the lake for even better views.
What’s most unique about Ponderosa is its spacious wooden cabins. If you want to stargaze at night, drift off to the sounds of nature, and wake up to a gorgeous sunrise, skip McCall’s homey lodges for the comforts of the park’s 9 cabins to choose from.
Cabins can be reserved directly online. There is a $6 admission fee to enter Ponderosa State Park.
Just 2 Hours From Boise
Sometimes ‘secret’ destinations remain secret for a reason: they’re hard to reach. But that’s not the case for McCall as it’s an easy (and lovely) drive from Boise’s growing airport, which offers direct flights from major hubs like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, to name a few.
You’ll zig-zag Highway 55 (also known as the Payette River Scenic Byway) through a variety of landscapes to set the mood for the hidden gem of McCall.
The one downside is that summer is one of the busiest times of year for McCall. You know, the locals I told you about flood the limited space, so expect some traffic on the outskirts of town.
McCall’s Best Stays
Don’t expect the same luxe resorts you’ll find in Coeur d’Alene in McCall. You’ll find more of a homey feel with rustic lodges and timeless inns dotting the townscape, whether in the heart of the “action” or nestled waterfront with epic views of Payette Lake.
With that comes better rates, but given there’s limited capacity in such a small town, it’s best to make plans ahead of time.
For example, the very popular Shore Lodge is already showing they’re sold out on numerous random dates this summer.
As alternatives, these are the top 5 stays according to TripAdvisor: (exclusing Shore Lodge)
- Best Western Plus McCall Lodge & Suites
- The Evergreen Hotel
- Super 8 by Wyndham McCall
- Hotel McCall
- Brundage Bungalows
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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