Hiking
Explore the vibrant flora and fauna of the surrounding forests and mountains on one of the many nearby hiking trails. While many other area trails remain snow-covered in the spring, the Rapid River Trail (40 minutes from the Heartland Hotel, just outside Riggins) provides a delightful low-elevation hike that offers breathtaking views of wildflowers in bloom and cascading waterfalls. Other nearby trails like Hazard Creek Falls, just 16 miles from New Meadows, tend to become accessible starting in April, and the spring runoff makes this 3-mile waterfall hike extra rewarding. Nearby Goose Creek Falls is among the next great trails to open, access from the Last Chance Trailhead is possible as early as June.
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Photo courtesy McCall Area Chamber -
Photo courtesy McCall Area Chamber -
Photo Courtesy Visit Idaho
Exploring the Weiser River Trail
The longest rail trail in the United States sits just four miles northwest of New Meadows. The Weiser River Trail is an 84 mile, primarily gravel, pathway with a 2% downhill grade (when riding north to south). The wildlife-rich trail winds through pine forests on the north end and rolling hills and open canyons on the south end. The trail is most popular with bikers and backpackers but is also open to pedestrians and horses. The upper ends of the trail may be snow covered in early spring.
Whitewater Rafting
Spring runoff is a key factor in shaping the whitewater season in the West Central Mountains. Riggins, just 40 minutes away, is known as the Whitewater Capital of Idaho. Peak flows begin in early June and rafting season typically lasts through late August.
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Photo Courtesy McCall Chamber
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Photo courtesy McCall Area Chamber -
Photo courtesy McCall Area Chamber -
Photo courtesy McCall Area Chamber
Fishing
Fishing is a year-round pursuit in and around New Meadows and the Heartland Hotel makes a perfect basecamp for anglers headed to nearby lakes and rivers. Spring steelhead season is generally open through mid-May on the Little Salmon River. Spring and Summer Chinook Season generally begin in April and last as late as August, Fall Chinook season opens as early as August. Anglers will need an Idaho Fishing License, head to the Fish and Game website for more info on seasons and fees. Trout fishing is open year-round on rivers and nearby lakes.