McCall, Idaho, is a charming mountain town in the heart of the Payette National Forest. This picturesque town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. McCall has something to offer everyone, from its breathtaking landscapes to its rich cultural heritage.
One of the most popular activities in McCall is exploring the surrounding wilderness areas. The Payette National Forest provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, and skiing.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the forest is the perfect place to reconnect with nature.
In addition to its natural beauty, McCall is known for its rich cultural heritage. The town has several historical sites, including the Valley County Historical Museum and the McCall Fish Hatchery Visitor Center.
These museums offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s past, including the history of the early settlers and the region’s Native American heritage. Whether you’re interested in history or want to experience the unique character of McCall, these museums are worth a visit.
One of the most popular attractions is Payette Lake. A 4,986-acre natural lake, it is home to several recreational activities. For example, you can enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride or go fishing. There are also scenic train rides through the mountains.
Ponderosa State Park
Ponderosa State Park is a popular vacation spot in Idaho. It’s located near the town of McCall in Valley County. The park is a public recreation area covering more than 1,000 acres. Several activities are available in the park, including fishing, hiking, swimming, and kayaking. In the winter, visitors can snowshoe along 3.4 miles of groomed trails.
While in the area, check out the Ponderosa State Park Visitor Center, which has free Wi-Fi. It offers various programs, including presentations on building nests and bird walks. Visitors can also participate in a Junior Ranger program, which teaches kids about the natural world.
The trails at Ponderosa State Park are perfect for both the novice and the experienced hiker. Half of the trails are designated for bikers. However, bike riders must bring their bikes.
Shore Lodge
If you’re looking for a great place to stay in McCall, Idaho, check out the Shore Lodge. Located on the shore of Payette Lake, this beautiful hotel is a destination unto itself. It offers a wide variety of amenities and activities.
With three restaurants, a full-service spa, and a 45-seat movie theater, the Shore Lodge offers something for everyone. So whether you want to relax by the pool or indulge in an extravagant meal, the Shore Lodge is the perfect location for your next getaway.
This storied lodge also provides accommodations for both families and business travelers. It features 77 rooms that feature luxurious amenities. Rooms include mini-fridges, walk-in showers, and plush robes. They also offer free Wi-Fi.
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The Shore Lodge also boasts a year-round swimming pool, tennis courts, and a private beach. In the winter, guests can ski, snowboard, and participate in snow tubing at the Activity Barn. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the lake’s natural beauty by kayak or canoe.
McCall Lake Cruises
McCall Lake Cruises is a local company that offers a variety of sightseeing, narrated tours, and public and private event cruises on Payette Lake. They have a 60-foot, 85-passenger vessel that was built in Northern Idaho.
This is the perfect size for the pampered passenger to enjoy a leisurely tour of the area’s scenic byways. In addition, the company is a bona fide eco-conscious enterprise that works with local caterers to provide a unique experience to their guests.
The company has a few awards and accolades to its credit. One of the more prestigious of these is the award it won in the state for the most innovative, most efficient, and most environmentally conscious small business. While the company hasn’t been around for long, it has a long community service history.
The McCall Activity Barn
If you’re looking for things to do in Mccall, Idaho, you might consider a trip to the McCall Activity Barn. This outdoor facility offers organized sledding and snow tubing.
The McCall Activity Barn is located in the south of the town. It has a 600-foot conveyor lift, snowmaking, and four half-pipe-style walks on a 700-foot hill. Tubers must be at least 36 inches tall to use the mountain.
In the winter, the town’s most popular activity is snowshoeing. There are several hiking trails around the area. Bear Basin Trail is a popular hike, less than five miles from the central core.
Another popular activity is boating. Visitors can access several alpine lakes by hiking trail. Some lakes include Deep Lake, Josephine Lake, and Boulder Lake.
Mundo Hot Springs
Mundo Hot Springs is a hot springs resort that offers travelers a comfortable and clean option near Cambridge, Idaho. This family-friendly place features a thermal pool and a variety of accommodations, including tent camping, cabins, and RV sites.
Mundo Hot Springs uses natural geothermal water to provide guests with a soothing bath. The temperature of the pool ranges between 102 degrees and 106 degrees. In addition, the springs give the visitors healing mineral water.
Mundo Hot Springs and RV Park is 3 miles north of Cambridge, Idaho, and 57 miles from McCall. The resort features a variety of accommodation options, from a small cabin for two to a luxurious pool house. It also has a restaurant that offers a range of classics and homemade specialties.
Visitors can soak in the hot springs or enjoy the surrounding landscapes. If you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures, you can hike or bike along the Weiser Trail, which is 84 miles long.