11 Best Things to Do in McCall Idaho in Summer
Learn more about the things you can do in McCall during Spring Season!
Are you thinking about paying a visit to McCall, Idaho, during the summer? Even though a lot of people like to stay at a ski resort and either cross-country ski or downhill ski during the winter in McCall, the local area has plenty of fun things to do during the summer, as well.
What are a few fun things you should do in McCall during the summer? Take a look at the travel guide below, and get ready to have a blast with these summer activities! Just don’t forget to book your stay with DoneRight Management.
This is one of the most beautiful locations in the local area, and it’s definitely something you should add to your list during your stay. There are gorgeous trees that will protect you from the sun, and you can spot some native wildlife, like black bears.
While the forest can certainly take up most of your vacation, you definitely do not want to miss Payette Lake. At one time, this water was covered by a glacier, so it is completely natural and 100 percent fresh.
During the summer, it is warm enough to take advantage of all the area’s water activities. Go swimming in the refreshing water. You might want to try your hand with a fishing rod to see if you can catch any dinner. If you’re in the mood to go canoeing or kayaking, consider exploring some of the available rental opportunities. Or, simply relax in the sun in the great outdoors.
Don’t pass up the McCall Lake Cruises as well! Sunset cruises through the stunning scenery are not to be missed.
If you are looking for a gorgeous aquatic opportunity, then take a look at some of the hiking trails around Lake Cascade. While many people love to go ice skating on the lakes when they freeze over for the skiing and snowboarding season, the lakes are just as beautiful during the summer.
You can check out miles of hiking trails around this lake, as it is situated in a state park that bears its name. Some hikes are more strenuous than others, so be sure to think about the people you have with you and how much stamina they have before you tackle one of the harder ones. Be sure to bring enough water with you to last the entire trip.
This is a great way to snap some photos of the amazing area as well!
After you have spent a full day kayaking, whitewater rafting on the Snake River, hiking, or mountain biking, you need to find a way to refresh yourself and get your mind and body ready for the next day. One of the best ways to do so is to go for a dip in the local hot springs.
There are both commercial options and all-natural locations to explore, and each one is distinct from the others.
Two of the best options are Burgdorf Hot Springs and Gold Fork Hot Springs. Think about where you are staying, what you are in the mood for, and how many people you have with you. Compare your needs to the amenities and pick the best location to refresh and restore yourself for the next day.
Sure, lots of people love to stay at the Brundage Mountain Resort and the Tamarack Resort during the winter, but there is plenty to do during the summer as well! If you are in the mood for something extreme, then mountain biking is probably the way to go!
Going for a scenic chairlift ride also offers a great opportunity to take a look at what the ski slopes look like during the summer. When the snow disappears, the cliffs and rocks become obvious, and you will be shocked that people actually ski on them during the winter. You might be one of them.
When you check out the mountain biking trails, you have multiple options available. You can either bring your own mountain bike or you can rent one from one of the local establishments on the mountain.
One thing you absolutely cannot do is forget about the safety equipment. A helmet is a must, but you never know what will happen when you get out there. Therefore, it is also advisable to bring additional safety gear. Kneepads and elbow pads might be a smart move.
Then, don’t forget to bring plenty of water with you as well. Just like skiing, know your limits, but have a great time! Bike rides are a fun activity for the whole group, and you might even want to sign up for a guided tour.
McCall is known for its wide variety of amazing restaurants that will fill you up after a long day of adventure.
This is a small town with a big appetite, and there will certainly be plenty of places that will give you a delicious meal, such as Steamers Steak & Seafood. Then, when you are done, don’t hesitate to check out Ice Cream Alley! You can sit on the edge of the street and watch one of the many parades go by. You might even have some live music to entertain you as well!
While downtown McCall, be sure to check out some of the shops that line the area. You might want to take a stroll down Lenora Street if you are looking for a souvenir from your trip. If you see a stand selling fresh huckleberries, try some!
This location is very close to Payette Lake, allowing for easy access to the park from the lake itself. Ponderosa State Park will provide you with a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking trails and boating options.
If you can’t get your fill of the park in one day, there are plenty of overnight camping options as well! The campgrounds come in all shapes and sizes, but they fill up quickly, particularly during the summer, so you need to act quickly if you want to spend the night in the park.
If you need a way to cool off during the summer, you might want to sign up for one of the amazing rafting trips down the Payette River. When the ice melts, the rivers rise, and the rapids rise right along with them. This is an opportunity for everyone, regardless of skill level, as the guide can customize your trip to meet your needs.
If you are looking for something a bit more relaxed for the children, there are plenty of options available. If you need something that will give you more of an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of opportunities in this area, as well. The guides will take care of you. Then, when you are ready to go off on your own, you can do so.
When the sun is high in the sky and the weather starts to warm up again, it is time to hit the links. You will have an opportunity to do exactly that if you swing by the Tamarack Golf Club. This is a place for people of all ages. Even if you have never swung a club before, you can hit the driving range to work on your technique. Or, you might want to sign up for a few lessons.
Then, when you are ready to give it a try, head out to the links! You can play a round with up to four people, making it a fun activity for the whole family. The course has its challenges, but it is also absolutely beautiful. When you are done, you can swing by the activity barn in town to grab a refreshment.
Speaking of getting a refreshment, you might even want to visit one of the many local breweries. There are lots of new establishments popping up all the time, so you can try one of the local craft beers (as long as you are of age). Local favorites include Salmon River Brewery and Broken Horn Brewing Company.
Usually, these breweries also offer live entertainment, so you can check the calendar to see what’s scheduled for the day. There could be a live music performance, or there might be some trivia going on. Many of the breweries are also pet-friendly, so don’t forget to bring your furry friend as well.
You can kick back, relax, and watch the sunset as you sip on a local beer or two!
As you stroll by Payette Lake, you might spot a few historical items that catch your eye. The Central Idaho Historical Museum is located here, where you can learn more about the local area. Some of the buildings in this area are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and you can explore exhibits dedicated to the area.
This will give you a glimpse into what life might have been like in the local area a long time ago, and you will gain even more appreciation for the amazing place in which you are going on vacation. New exhibits are added from time to time, so don’t hesitate to return and take a look at the museum.
Photo Credit: katjen
Experience the vibrant spirit of Independence Day in McCall, Idaho, where the community comes alive with festive events and family-friendly activities. The town’s charming downtown area fills with locals and visitors alike, all eager to enjoy the summer celebrations against the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
During the day, swing by the annual Lakeside Liberty Fest, which takes place on the shores of Legacy Beach. As the sun sets, gather at one of McCall’s sandy beaches or parks for a spectacular fireworks display over Payette Lake. It’s the perfect way to end a day filled with fresh mountain air, good food, and memorable moments with family and friends.
If you plan on visiting the local area during the summer, you will need to find a place to stay. There are plenty of great options in this mountain town during the summer, but the vacation rentals run by DoneRight Management top the list. Book your stay soon so you don’t miss out on the beauty of summer in McCall!
