7 Compelling Reasons To Visit The Payette Lake, Idaho

Payette Lake Idaho, located in west central Idaho at McCall, is a water and nature lovers nirvana. Payette Lake, formed from glacial melting, is world-renowned for its beauty.

From boating the vast pristine waters, catching lake trout fish, kayaking down Payette River trails, and hiking the mountains, here are seven compelling reasons to visit Payette Lake Idaho:

1) Enjoy Boating, Jet Skiing, And Water Sports

At any time during the summer, Payette Lake in Idaho is booming with boats, jet skis, and other watercraft along the 5,330-acre glacial alpine lake.

The great news is you don’t have to own a boat to join the summer fun. Cheap Thrills Rentals in McCall Idaho will bring the boat or watercraft to you at Lake Payette. Our rentals include a shade canopy, life jackets, ski gear, and water toys where applicable.

See our rental descriptions for prices, details, availability, and the number of passengers allowed for each vehicle.

Experience the thrill of renting one of our watercraft on Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho. Book your adventure today!

2) Paddle Through The Majestic Scenery In The North Fork Payette River

While Payette Lake is the place for excellent boating and watersports, the north fork of Payette River is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding.

This stretch of lazy river surrounded by lush forests of pine trees will bring you one-on-one with nature and relaxation. Bring a picnic lunch and stop at one of the many sandy beaches along the river.

3) Cast Your Lines And Catch A Trophy Trout Or Tiger Muskie

Set up along the banks of Lake Payette, Idaho, and fish from the shallow waters of a small tributary, or venture out on a boat and fish in up to 400 feet deep waters. Just be sure to check the area fishing rules. A few of the fish are no catch, and others are limited.

You will find a vast selection of trout and other fish in Payette Lake and Snake River in Idaho, including:

• Rainbow Trout

• Lake Trout Fish

• Smallmouth Bass

• Kokanee Salmon

• Yellow Perch

• Trout

• Tiger Muskie

4) Go Camping At Ponderosa State Park

Ponderosa State Park in northeast McCall Idaho is a 1500-acre nature lovers’ paradise. Nestled in the mountains on Lake Payette, Ponderosa State Park is a scenic wonder with countless possibilities for adventure.

Campgrounds And Cabin Rentals

Pitch a tent at a standard or serviced campground, or rent a unique cabin with mountain views. Where you stay depends on how primitive you want to be.

Hike Along The Trails

Take a scenic hike along one of the trails with lookout points, wildlife, wildflowers, and lush greenery. The following will get you started:

• Goose Creek Trail

• Lily Marsh Trailhead

• Bear Basin Trailhead

Explore Bike Trails

Rent a bike and capture panoramic views of Payette Lake on one of these bike trails in Ponderosa State Park:

• Huckleberry Loop Trail

• Fox Run

• West Face Trailhead

Forage Berries And Mushrooms

Forage for huckleberries, thimbleberries, red buffalo berries, and morel mushrooms with or without a guide along the trails. After you wash them, you can eat them.

Water Sports Galore

So many water activities are at your fingertips at Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho, including swimming at one of the park’s beaches, fly fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Shoreline access is limited at Payette Lake due to vacation homes. Pick a spot from a boat to swim or wade in the calmer water at Payette River.

5) Experience Wilderness In The Mountains Of Payette National Forest

The Idaho mountains span over 7500 feet in elevation and are home to more than 300 species of mammals and birds, some of which are extinct.

Find spiritual solitude among the deep canyons, wilderness, and snow on the mountains, which provide unique and incredible destination hunting and extreme winter sports.

6) Spend A Day In The Quaint Antique Shops And Local Restaurants

McCall is a resort town on the southern shore of Payette Lake in Idaho. It sits in the center of the Payette National Forest.

Downtown McCall is family-friendly and boasts many fantastic restaurants, live music, antique shops, and picture-perfect views of Payette Lake.

7) Payette Lake Novelties In McCall Idaho

While visiting Payette Lake in McCall Idaho, see if you can spot the local novelties:

• Sperm Whale Island near Shellworth Island – Sperm Whale Island is a small rock island shaped like a sperm whale off the tip of Paradise Point near Shellworth Island and Tamarack Bay.

• Ponder the petrified crocodile – A crocodile that once tempted the cold winters of McCall Idaho, can be found in its petrified state on Lake Payette.

• Hunt for the Payette Lake Monster named Sharlie – The locals say sightings of Sharlie date back to the early 1900s when the legend started. A lucky winner received $40 for naming it.

Book Your Adventure On Payette Lake In McCall, Idaho

Come join us for a delightful boat tour on beautiful Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho! At Cheap Thrills Rentals, we understand the importance of spending quality time with loved ones, which is why we offer a variety of boats to suit small and large parties.

Not only do we provide the boats, but we also bring them directly to you along with all the necessary safety equipment. Our impressive fleet includes pontoon boats, ski, and surf boats, as well as thrilling jet skis.

Stay aware of your surroundings and familiarize yourself with safety regulations, wildlife, and water conditions while enjoying everything McCall offers. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Payette Lake! Explore our wide range of rentals and start your adventure today!