Mama's a-Frame

The perfect lake memory needs the perfect lake cottage. Just a 10 minute walk to beach access and private dock, this humble little A-frame on the rim of one of the peninsulas near Donnelly is a great place to stay while you make memories and enjoy the wealth of activities abound in the Cascade Lake area.

When it comes to both charm and functionality, Mama's A-frame gets an "A." From its new carpet to its vintage furniture, Mama's delivers comfort with a bit of '60s nostalgia. And don't forget to bring along some of your oldie CD collection to enjoy while you relax. There's TV (no cable, though), and a DVD player so you can take in a movie after dinner. Or, grab the marshmallows and hang out by the fire pit by the picnic table in the yard.

When it's time for bed, Mama's A-frame sleeps five. There's a pull-out sofa bed and a upstairs a bedroom with a full/double. Climb the cool, brightly colored spiral staircase into loft where you'll find not only a queen bed, but a balcony where you can get some fresh air and enjoy the lakefront landscape. There is one full bathroom with a shower, or linger in the swirling warmth of the jetted tub. The property will also accommodate tent and trailer camping as well. These folks are privy to more rustic facilities including his and her outhouses that mimic the A-frame structure of the main house.

Since this cottage is just a short walk to the lake and a neighborhood private dock, it goes without saying that it's the ideal place to be for anything involving water, whether it be boating, fishing, or swimming. But Cascade Lake is just part of Donnelly's attraction. The town is a doorway to lots of non-aquatic activities. Take a one day or multiple day hike in Ponderosa or Lake Cascade State Park. Visit one of the nearby hot springs. Golfers: there are 8 golf courses between 3 and 14 miles of Donnelly, so bring along the clubs. For skiers, there are 4 resorts within 100 miles. Tamarack is the closest - about 15 minutes to the south.

So, reserve Mama's A-frame today and make another memory of that "trip to the lake."