McCall is a four-season mountain resort town located just two hours north of Boise, Idaho on the shores of Payette Lake. With roots in mining and logging, McCall has emerged as a preferred vacation and second home ownership destination for people from around the country.

And no wonder. Outdoor enthusiasts come for the skiing, miles of summer hiking and winter cross country trails, lake boating, fishing, golf, whitewater rafting and biking. Events like the long running Winter Carnival have become grand traditions for visitors and locals alike.

A Vast Wilderness Awaits

Uniquely situated in the heart of Payette National Forest, McCall provides prime access to the largest area of protected wilderness in the continental US. There are over 2.3 million acres filled with lush forests, deep river gorges and glacial lakes - all perched atop the Idaho Batholith, the largest body of granite in the country. Glaciers played a key role in shaping the terrain in and around McCall. Payette Lake and the many alpine lakes nearby were all formed by glacial erosion and melt water.

One may encounter upwards of 300 species of birds and animals in dense forests and amid wide river plains filled with over thirty rare varieties of plants and wildflowers. Six nearby campgrounds are excellent starting points for outdoor vacation adventures. McCall is centrally located to embark on trips to Hells Canyon - the nation's deepest - and the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the largest designated wilderness area in the lower 48 states.

Recreational Activities for All Seasons

Any time of year is a great time to visit McCall for a mountain resort vacation. Temperate and sunny summers are a great time to go whitewater rafting, fishing, horseback riding, or to enjoy the miles of bike paths. Fall here is a hiking and wildlife watching paradise. And winter brings the highest snowfall depths in the state for optimal snowsport enjoyment. With hundreds of miles of trails nearby, hikers, cross country skiers and snowmobilers have a lot to explore.

Shopping, Dining and Events Galore

Since the heyday of the mining and logging boom faded into the history books, the natural beauty and attraction of Payette Lake transformed McCall into a popular vacation spot. A walkable downtown features numerous shops, restaurants, spas and galleries to enjoy. To find area business, we have compiled a list of useful McCall links.

Long running events such as the Winter Carnival have become very popular with locals and visitors alike. Parades, snow sculpting contests, rounds of snowshoe golf, and live music concerts have been a tradition for over 40 years. Other events include Classic Wooden Boat Show, farmer's markets, barn dances and antique car shows. Visit our McCall Events Calendar for a list of things to do in and around town.