McCall

McCall, Idaho, is a captivating mountain resort town situated on the southern shore of Payette Lake, embraced by the expansive Payette National Forest. At an elevation of approximately 5,030 feet, this former logging community has transformed into a year-round outdoor recreation hub, drawing visitors with its pristine alpine lake, abundant snowfall, and direct access to vast wilderness. Whether blanketed in winter white or basking in summer sun, McCall offers a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere with a diverse range of activities, from watersports and hiking to skiing and exploring local lore.

The town's allure extends beyond its natural splendor, with a lively downtown featuring local art galleries, independent coffeehouses, and distinctive shops. McCall anchors the northern end of Valley County and is often referred to as 'Little Lake Tahoe' due to its impressive glacial lake. Its history, intertwined with mining, forestry, agriculture, and recreation, has shaped a community that values both its heritage and its adventurous spirit.

From Native Lands to Logging Town

The McCall area's story begins with its first inhabitants, the Tukudika (a sub-band of the Shoshone known as the "Sheepeaters"), the Shoshone, and the Nez Perce tribes. These Native American groups primarily used the land during the milder summer months, migrating to other areas to escape the harsh winters. In the early 19th century, nomadic French Canadian fur trappers, including François Payette, for whom the lake and river are named, passed through the region, alongside other mountain men like Jim Bridger and Jedediah Smith.

The mid-1800s saw a brief period of mining interest, with prospectors temporarily naming a settlement "Lake City." However, only alluvial gold was found, and most mining activity soon shifted north to the town of Warren. The permanent settlement of McCall began around 1889 when Thomas and Louisa McCall, an emigrant family from Ohio and Missouri, traded a team of horses for a cabin and 160 acres of land. Tom McCall quickly established essential services, including a school, hotel, saloon, and post office, even naming himself postmaster. The town, initially known as Lardo, was officially incorporated as McCall on July 19, 1911, honoring its founder.

The Rise of Timber and Tourism

The early 20th century marked a period of rapid growth for McCall, driven largely by the timber industry. Tom McCall himself purchased a sawmill, which was later sold to the Hoff & Brown Lumber Company, becoming a major employer until its closure in 1977. The arrival of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1914 further solidified McCall's standing as a viable community and emerging tourist destination. With easier train travel, vacationers from the Boise Valley began flocking to the area, drawn by the scenic rail route and the natural beauty of Payette Lake.

After World War II, a consortium of businessmen and doctors recognized McCall's potential as an ideal recreation site, leading to a significant shift from a logging-dependent economy to one focused on tourism. The opening of the iconic Shore Lodge in 1948, designed as a cozy and intimate retreat, became a centerpiece for this transformation. Over the decades, McCall has continued to evolve, becoming a renowned four-season resort town, celebrated for its winter sports and the annual Winter Carnival, which dates back to 1924.

McCall offers a diverse array of attractions, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed pace. Begin your exploration at Payette Lake, the town's centerpiece, where you can enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on its sandy beaches like Art Roberts Park, Legacy Park, and Brown Park, all within walking distance of downtown. Consider a sunset cruise on the lake for a different perspective.

Adjacent to McCall, Ponderosa State Park extends into Payette Lake, offering miles of hiking and biking trails through old-growth forests, opportunities for observing wildlife, and picnic areas. Drive the loop road to Osprey Point for expansive lake views, especially at sunset. For hikers, Goose Creek Falls provides a moderate trail leading to a picturesque waterfall within the Payette National Forest. More challenging hikes to alpine lakes like Josephine Lake, Deep Lake, Boulder Lake, and Box Lake are also accessible nearby.

In winter, Brundage Mountain is a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding, offering a variety of runs and consistent snowfall. Year-round, you can unwind at Gold Fork Hot Springs, a short drive from town, providing natural pools for relaxation. Downtown McCall invites leisurely strolls, with local shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options. Don't miss the McCall Ale Trail for a taste of local craft beers and keep an eye out for the bear-themed statues scattered throughout town.

McCall is a true four-season destination, with each season offering distinct attractions. Summer (early July to mid-August) is the busiest, with warm weather perfect for lake activities, hiking, and biking. Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and colorful changing leaves, ideal for hiking and scenic drives. Winter transforms McCall into a snow-covered wonderland, drawing visitors for skiing, snowshoeing, and the festive Winter Carnival (late January/early February). Spring is a quieter time to visit, with melting snow giving way to blooming wildflowers and a more relaxed atmosphere before the peak season.

McCall is approximately 100 miles north of Boise National Airport (BOI), a scenic two-hour drive mostly along I-84. The town has a council-manager form of government, with a city manager nominated by the mayor and elected by the city council. While public transportation within McCall is limited, downtown is walkable, and many attractions are accessible by car. For outdoor activities, equipment rentals for watersports, skiing, and biking are readily available. When packing, remember that McCall experiences significant temperature fluctuations, especially between day and night, so layering is always recommended, along with rain gear, regardless of the season. For those considering a longer stay, accommodations range from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals.