The beauty of McCall, Idaho is not only found in the stunning scenery, but in its proximity to everything. The lake, the ski mountains, the hiking and biking trails, the world-class golf courses and whitewater rafting, arts and culture, dining and more are all at your fingertips. McCall is known for its small-town charm and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Explore what McCall has to offer …
By Land
Hit the trails on bike or on foot to get a close-up view of the mountain splendor. Hike to one of 300 alpine lakes, bike down premier single track or challenge yourself on technical features. Gain elevation without breaking a sweat by jumping on the Brundage Mountain Resort chairlift. Ride the lift for a simple scenic outing with the family or bring your mountain bike to access more than 20 miles of trails winding through the ski area. After a day on the mountain, refresh and relax at Smoky’s Bar and Grill, Brundage Mountain’s popular slope side restaurant. Claim your chair on the sunny patio and enjoy a cold brew from McCall’s local breweries and casual pub fare while taking in the panoramic views.
If golfing is on your itinerary, you’ll be enchanted and challenged by the area’s five courses. Featuring 90 holes of stunning links set among the towering pines and rolling meadows, McCall offers plenty of scenery for both social and competitive golfers. The golf course at Jug Mountain Ranch exemplifies golf in McCall. While most courses feature a run-of-the-mill “warm up” hole as the opener, Jug Mountain gets right down to business with an exhilarating severe downhill tee shot from the highest point on the course to a fairway where a stream crosses near the landing zone. It is a perfect way to start a round that features plenty of elevation change and a solid challenge.
By Water
Hot summer days and cool starry nights are what summer in the mountains is all about. Start with the crowned jewel of the area, Payette Lake. This pristine mountain lake offers swimming, sailing, waterskiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and guided lake cruises. While you’re on the lake, keep an eye out for Sharlie the lake monster. This local legend has reportedly been spotted in the calm evening waters of Payette Lake since the late 1800s.
After a day on the water, sit back and enjoy a lakeside masterpiece from the area’s burgeoning culinary scene. Dine alfresco at Rupert’s at Hotel McCall where James Beard semifinalist Chef Gary Kucy puts a focus on flavor using locally sourced ingredients. Start with the Smoked Elk Carpaccio served with huckleberry and potato crisps. Follow with the Pan Roasted King Salmon served fresh daily with red beet quinoa, roasted yellow pepper coulis, and seasonal vegetables from the local farmers’ market. Finish your experience with an authentic Idaho s’more. This delicious ensemble features a flourless chocolate lava cake, house made marshmallow and graham cracker drizzled in chocolate syrup.
By Air
McCall is the gateway to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the largest contiguous wilderness in the Lower 48. Charter a flight to one of the area’s fly-in ranches for a hearty breakfast or simply enjoy a scenic tour over the remote wilderness below. A charter flight is also a great way to access remote areas with world-class whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, and camping.
Fresh Snow
Sunny days don’t just apply to the summer months. Smooth corduroy and deep powder stashes define McCall in the winter. The area is host to more than 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, 60 kilometers of Nordic trails, endless routes for adventurous snowshoers, and three alpine ski areas. The largest, Brundage Mountain Resort, was recently voted among Ski Magazine’s Top Ten for Best Snow, Value and Family Experience. The area’s 300+ inches of average snowfall mean that whatever your winter sport, McCall will have you covered in fresh white stuff!
