A little more than 100 miles north of Boise sits McCall. You will find Boiseans driving up ID-55 to the charming mountain town every weekend to enjoy outdoor activities and delectable dining options. It is the perfect easy getaway for Treasure Valley residents! Listed below are a few of our favorite things to do, eat and enjoy in McCall.
My Father’s Place
We have a tradition, as soon as we pull into town we head straight to My Father’s Place. Sure, this retro diner serves up a tasty charbroiled burger, but you can also think outside of beef with Grandpa Earl’s Elk Burger or Paula’s Nut Burger. My Father’s Place has been serving McCall since 1989, but this restaurant is not stuck in the past–those with dietary restrictions will find gluten-free and vegetarian offerings. Do not forget to order a creamy milkshake!
The Pancake House
There is a reason why this restaurant has the breakfast staple in its name: the pancakes served at this iconic locale are the size of your face (or at least a dinner plate). The Pancake House’s extensive menu provides breakfast and lunch options that range from omelets to salads. Make sure that you save time to shop in Auggie’s Sheepskin attached to the spacious restaurant.
The Cutwater on Payette Lake
The view can not be beaten at The Cutwater on Payette Lake, a unique restaurant located at the Shore Lodge. Patrons can soak in the view of snow or sun all year long at this indoor/outdoor dining spot. Those with younger members in their party will enjoy the analog game room dubbed “The Tank” and outfitted with board games, a foosball table, and other forms of entertainment. While the kids are busy, make sure to grab a tasty signature cocktail such as the Huckletini.
Ponderosa Park
Now that your appetite has been satiated at one of McCall’s many restaurants, you will want to explore Ponderosa State Park. It is easy to escape to the woods thanks to the proximity of the 1,515-acre state park that sits on the edge of the town. You can book a cabin or a camping spot if you want the full outdoor experience, or you can traverse one of the many hiking trails that wind through the park. Visitors can choose from numerous activities, including snowshoeing, swimming, and biking trails.
Brundage Mountain
You might as well conquer a mountain while you are in McCall, Brundage Mountain that is! Brundage Mountain is a destination in both winter and summer, with trails for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. Perfect your skills on the powder by practicing on one of Brundage’s three terrain parks. For adventurous skiers, consider a guided SnowCat to explore the backcountry.
The Marina
At the center of McCall sits the gem of the mountain town—Payette Lake. The best way to experience the 5,300-acre lake is at the Marina at Shore Lodge. Rentals are available for all types of thrill-seekers, even if that thrill is as simple as catching a fish. Kayaks, standup paddleboards, canoes, wakeboards, tubes… the list goes on of all the possible gear to rent and ways there are to soak up the sun at the Marina. In the summer, don’t miss the live music and delicious fish tacos!
No matter what your idea of relaxation is, you are sure to find a way to unwind in McCall. Leave a comment below if you have any questions about my favorite mountain escape, or if I forgot to include your favorite spot.
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