7 Adventurous Things To Do In McCall Idaho In Summer

Situated on Payette Lake’s shore on the western edge of Valley County, McCall is a resort town famed for having some of Idaho’s highest average annual snowfall totals. People from around the country come to McCall to conquer the peaks at Brundage Mountain or revel in cross-country skiing in glorious backcountry terrain.

Of course, magical McCall also offers plenty of all-season opportunities for adventure for those who enjoy hiking trails, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and days out on the lake! It’s common for people who fall in love with the area while visiting the McCall Winter Carnival to make vows to return to explore the popular trails, hot springs, and surrounding mountains once the snow has subsided.

When the thaw comes each year, Payette National Forest has a lush awakening that invites visitors to trek through alpine meadows painted with wild phlox and camas. With winter’s hand at rest, formerly glassy lakes turn into swimming holes where rafts and kayaks can be docked while families cool off with a quick splash.

Are you heading to McCall for a getaway? Break the ice on a planning trip with this list of seven things to do in McCall Idaho in summer!

1) Explore Our Extensive Selection Of Boat Rentals In McCall

There’s no doubt that boating is one of the big things to do in McCall Idaho during the summer. The Payette River, Payette Lake, and Lake Cascade are all perfect spots for soaking up warm summer sunshine in the mountains!

While Cheap Thrills Rentals is the go-to name for snowmobiles in the winter, things don’t slow down in the summer! Plan an adrenaline-filled, memory-making adventure with any of the following:

• surf boat

• pontoon boat

• waverunner

• runaboat/ski boat

Of course, few people have the luxury of dragging along watercraft with them on vacation to zip around on the water. There’s an easy fix. Everything you need to get on the water safely is provided.

In addition to showing you how to use your equipment, the team can also point you toward the best sites to visit once you’re off and running! Discover a wide range of boat rental options today!

2) Visit The Trails And Links At Jug Mountain Ranch

During summer, Jug Mountain Ranch’s snow trails that are usually used to cross-country ski or ride a fat-tire bike are transformed into world-class single-track mountain biking trails that are free to use. Cyclists enjoy a winding track that meanders through meadows before crossing into Jughandle Mountain.

The mountain also has a golf course that has been named one of the best new courses in the country by Golf Digest.

3) Feel The Warmth At Gold Forks Hot Springs

Melt your cares away as you bathe in mineral-rich hot springs surrounded by a towering pine forest! Gold Forks consists of six naturally formed rock pools with temperatures that range from 85 degrees Fahrenheit to 100 degrees. There’s also a kid-friendly sandy pool.

4) Play At Ponderosa State Park

Perched on a peninsula in glorious Payette Lake, Ponderosa State Park covers 1,515 acres of land alive with pines, spruces, grand firs, Rocky Mountain maples, buffalo berry, honeysuckle, yarrow, and mountain ash. Families and adventurers from around the county gather here each summer to:

• Hike Peninsula Trail, Meadow Marsh, Huckleberry Loop, and other popular hiking trails

• Go mountain biking at Fox Run or Huckleberry Loop

• Spot a long list of native wildflowers that includes fairy slippers, Western trillium, and honeysuckle

• Fish for trout, catfish, salmon, and smallmouth bass on Payette Lake.

• Enjoy jet skiing and boating

• Kayak on the perimeter of Payette Lake

• Swim at North Beach and Davis Beach

There’s so much to do at Ponderosa State Park that many visitors to the area actually prefer to camp overnight instead of seeking lodging in downtown McCall. Of course, many families looking for cozier accommodations choose to stay at Shore Lodge near Payette Lake.

5) Tour The Central Idaho Historical Museum In McCall Idaho

History buffs will love this! If you’re curious about learning about the history and culture of downtown McCall, local state parks, local lakes, the Payette River, and the rest of the McCall area, the Central Idaho Historical Museum is a great starting point!

This cabin-style museum located on State Street collects artifacts, photos, and written oral history to preserve the legacy of McCall Idaho.

6) Get To Lake Cascade State Park

Getting to Cascade is one of the top things to do around McCall Idaho in summer. Covering 500 acres on Lake Cascade, this recreation area offers opportunities for:

• White water rafting

• Relaxing on beaches

• Enjoying boat launches

• Visiting Trail Creek Hot Springs

• Staying at Warm Lake Lodge

• Visiting Kelly’s Whitewater Park

• Horseback riding at 4D Longhorn Guest Ranch

Lake Cascade State Park is also one of Idaho’s top spots for fishing!

7) Enjoy Some Great Food In McCall, Idaho

Enjoying some treats is always one of the best things to do in McCall Idaho for families. Luckily, flavor is never in short supply in McCall!

There’s nothing like a mountain-sized scoop of ice cream after completing a challenging trail. Ice Cream Alley is a must-try treat shop nestled in McCall’s historic downtown.

Salmon River Brewery is the eatery locals visit for a boot-stomping good time. Enjoy enchanted patio dining in the summer while savoring a menu full of classic favorites and tap-house beers.

You can also simply grab a to-go order from any restaurant to enjoy a picnic at downtown’s Legacy Park.

Plan Your Summer Visit To McCall, Idaho

McCall Idaho is a haven for mountain bikers, trail lovers, and watersport fanatics who crave the fresh air and open sky of alpine wildlands!

If you want to make unforgettable memories this year, there’s nothing like renting your own boat for a day. With a location right near the water, Cheap Thrills Rentals can deliver the perfect watercraft to you!

Don’t forget to explore our selection before finalizing your list of summer activities in McCall, Idaho!