Adventures in McCall, Idaho

Looking for a weekend getaway near Boise that offers year round outdoor activities?

Year-round, McCall, Idaho is a quick and easy day-trip or weekend getaway from Boise. At a higher elevation than Boise (just over 5,000 ft), McCall provides excellent snow in the winter and slightly cooler temps for being outdoors in the summer. 

McCall and the surrounding area is a cyclist’s and skier’s dream! We love the mountain biking trails in Ponderosa State Park as well as Bear Basin, just outside of town. For road cyclists, the area has endless backcountry roads to take in the views.

Just outside of McCall, Jug Mountain boasts year-round adventure as well (shuttle-supported downhill mountain biking in summer and snowshoeing/Nordic skiing in winter). Alpine skiers will love Brundage or Tamarack ski resorts while those who would rather curl up with a good book can find a cozy spot at the Fogglifter cafe in town.

Here are a few of our personal favs!

1. Lunch at My Father’s Place (claiming to have the “best burgers in Idaho” with beef from local ranchers). Be prepared for a line but we promise it is worth the wait!
2. Dinner and beers while watching the sunset over Lake Payette at Salmon River Brewery. We recommend the bison burger.
3. Stop in for a pint at Broken Horn Brewing while enjoying a ride along the local greenbelt bike path. 
4. In the summer, rent a SUP, a ski-do or bikes to explore the lake either by water or land. 
5. Mountain bikers will enjoy the trails at Ponderosa State Park or Bear Basin for all levels of skill. Jug Mountain and Brundage  also have great downhill mountain biking options in the summer months.
6. Pick up local goods at McCall Farmer’s Market.
7. In the winter months, McCall hosts a variety of snow activities for just about any age or fitness level. Options include: Brundage ski resort, Jug Mountain (Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, fat tire bike riding), and the activity barn for tubing and more. The Winter Carnival is a great option for families, grab a hot cocoa and walk around town to take in the ice sculptures and other activities.
8. There are also several nearby hot springs options so don’t forget your swimsuit. Gold Fork is great for families with pools of different temperatures including one with a sandy floor that kids love. When you get tired of soaking, play chess on the giant life-size chess board. Plus you are allowed to bring in your own food and beverages, so bring a picnic and enjoy a soak.
9. For a more scenic route, turn off on Highway 52 to return to Boise via the quaint town of Emmett. This route is a bit longer but sometimes has less traffic and takes you along the Payette River through some beautiful farmland on your way back to Boise.