McCall is where mountain air, clear water, and small-town charm come together. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, relaxing lake time, or a cozy winter escape, this Idaho town delivers in every season. The best things to do in McCall, Idaho include boating and swimming at Payette Lake, skiing at Brundage Mountain Resort, hiking in Ponderosa State Park, soaking at nearby hot springs, and enjoying the famous McCall Winter Carnival.
Below is a practical guide to help you plan your trip.
Enjoy Payette Lake (Summer Favorite)
Payette Lake is the heart of McCall. It’s clear, calm, and surrounded by forested mountains.
What you can do:
- Rent a boat or jet ski
- Paddleboard or kayak
- Swim at Legacy Beach
- Take a sunset cruise
- Fish for trout or salmon
The water stays cool, even in summer. July and August are best for swimming. Mornings are quieter and perfect for paddling.
Local tip: Walk along the Mile High Marina area in the evening. The lake views at sunset are hard to beat.
Ski or Mountain Bike at Brundage Mountain Resort
Brundage Mountain Resort is known for deep powder snow in winter and scenic trails in summer.
In Winter:
- Downhill skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snowshoeing
- Nordic skiing
Brundage is less crowded than large Colorado resorts. Lift lines are usually short.
In Summer:
- Lift-served mountain biking
- Scenic chairlift rides
- Hiking trails
If you want big mountain views without big resort chaos, this is your spot.
Explore Ponderosa State Park
Ponderosa State Park sits on a peninsula that stretches into Payette Lake.
Why visit?
- Easy hiking trails
- Wildlife viewing (deer, foxes, birds)
- Cross-country skiing in winter
- Camping with lake views
The Peninsula Trail is beginner-friendly and offers great overlooks. It’s ideal for families.
Soak in Natural Hot Springs
After a long hike or ski day, nothing feels better than soaking in a hot spring.
Popular options near McCall:
- Burgdorf Hot Springs (rustic and scenic)
- Gold Fork Hot Springs (easy access, multiple pools)
These are natural mineral pools surrounded by forest. Go early or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Experience the McCall Winter Carnival
Every winter, the town celebrates the McCall Winter Carnival.
Expect:
- Giant snow sculptures
- Parades
- Fireworks
- Live music
- Food events
It usually runs in late January to early February. Hotels book fast, so reserve early.
Go Hiking and Waterfall Chasing
McCall has trails for all skill levels.
Popular hikes include:
- Boulder Lake (moderate, great views)
- Louie Lake (less crowded)
- Jug Mountain trails
In spring and early summer, waterfalls are strong from snowmelt. Late summer offers dry, clear trail conditions.
Try Fishing and River Rafting
The nearby Payette River is famous for whitewater rafting. You can choose calm family-friendly floats or high-adrenaline rapids.
Fishing is also popular in both the lake and rivers. Local guides can take you to prime trout spots.
Pros and Cons of Visiting McCall
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful lake and mountain scenery | Can get crowded in peak summer |
| Four-season destination | Limited nightlife |
| Less crowded than major ski towns | Winter driving conditions can be tough |
| Family-friendly atmosphere | Higher lodging prices during festivals |
Real-World Examples
Family Summer Trip:
A family of four rents a cabin near Payette Lake. Mornings are spent paddleboarding. Afternoons include short hikes in Ponderosa State Park. Evenings end with ice cream downtown and sunset by the marina.
Winter Weekend Getaway:
A couple visits during Winter Carnival. They ski at Brundage in the morning, explore snow sculptures downtown, then relax at Gold Fork Hot Springs before dinner.
Adventure-Focused Trip:
A group of friends spends one day whitewater rafting on the Payette River and the next mountain biking at Brundage.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Is McCall, Idaho worth visiting?
Yes. McCall offers year-round outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed mountain-town feel without overwhelming crowds.
What is McCall best known for?
McCall is best known for Payette Lake, Brundage Mountain skiing, and the McCall Winter Carnival.
When is the best time to visit McCall?
- Summer (July–August): Best for lake activities
- Winter (January–February): Best for skiing and Winter Carnival
- Fall: Fewer crowds and beautiful colors
How far is McCall from Boise?
McCall is about 2 hours north of Boise by car, depending on road conditions.
Is McCall family-friendly?
Yes. The lake beaches, easy hiking trails, and small-town layout make it great for families.
Final Verdict
If you want a mountain town that feels authentic, relaxed, and packed with outdoor adventure, McCall, Idaho is a strong choice.
You can spend the morning on the lake, the afternoon on a trail, and the evening watching the sunset over the water. In winter, you trade paddleboards for powder snow and hot springs.
McCall is simple in the best way. It’s about nature, fresh air, and slowing down — without running out of things to do.