Road Trippin’ from Boise to McCall Idaho

Any season is wonderful time to visit Idaho, especially if you are looking for some outdoor fun and adventure. There are many things to do and see along the way from Boise to McCall, a charming mountain town on the shores of Payette Lake. Whether you are into skiing, snowmobiling, hot springs, or just enjoying the scenery, you will find something to suit your taste on this road trip. Here are some of the highlights and tips for this winter journey.

The drive from Boise to McCall is about 106 miles and takes about 2.5 hours via ID-55 where you will pass by several small towns, such as Horseshoe Bend, Banks, Cascade, and Donnelly. Take some time to visit these quaint towns where you can grab a bite to eat or take a break. Some of the attractions along this route include:

• The Roystone Hot Springs, a natural hot spring resort near Horseshoe Bend that offers soaking pools, camping, and cabins.
• The Cascade Raft and Kayak, a rafting company that offers guided trips on the Payette River for all skill levels.
• The Kelly’s Whitewater Park, a recreational park in Cascade that features a whitewater course, a visitor center, and a beach area.
• The Tamarack Resort, a ski and golf resort in Donnelly that offers year-round activities and amenities.

Once you arrive in McCall, you will be greeted by the beautiful Payette Lake, which is the centerpiece of this mountain town. McCall has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages and interests, from outdoor recreation to arts and culture. Some of the things to do in McCall include:

• Exploring Ponderosa State Park, a state park that covers a peninsula in Payette Lake and offers hiking trails, guided walks, evening programs, beach access, picnic areas, and winter sports.
• Skiing or snowboarding at Brundage Mountain Resort, an alpine ski area that boasts over 320 inches of snow annually and has terrain for all levels.
• Taking a sunset cruise on Payette Lake, a relaxing way to enjoy the views of the lake and the mountains while listening to live music and sipping drinks.
• Playing golf at one of the three courses in McCall, such as the McCall Golf Club, the Jug Mountain Ranch Golf Course, or the Whitetail Golf Club.
• Visiting the McCall Fish Hatchery, a fish hatchery that produces rainbow trout for stocking Idaho’s lakes and streams. You can tour the facility and learn about the fish production process.
• Checking out the McCall Smokejumper Base, a base for smokejumpers who parachute into remote areas to fight wildfires. You can see their equipment, watch videos of their jumps, and even try on their gear.
• Feeding wild elk near Donnelly, an unforgettable experience that allows you to get up close and personal with these majestic animals. You can join a sleigh ride or a wagon ride that takes you to their feeding grounds.