Capturing the
Four Seasons Lifestyle

Winter Recreation

Winter in McCall, Idaho, is a snowy paradise, drawing adventurers to its mountains and frozen lakes. With Brundage Mountain Resort nearby, skiers and snowboarders revel in powder snow, while Ponderosa State Park offers groomed Nordic trails. Payette Lake transforms into an icy playground for activities like ice fishing and skating. Evenings are spent cozily by firesides, enjoying hearty meals and après-ski drinks at local taverns. Despite the cold, the town's warmth radiates through its tight-knit community, creating a magical winter atmosphere amid snow-covered pines.

  • A family skiing together on a snowy mountain with a scenic view in the background.

    Brundage Mountain Resort

    This fabulous, relatively undiscovered mountain is only seven miles from River Ranch and boasts uncrowded runs and the best snow in Idaho with over 300 inches of pristine powder. It also has the largest backcountry skiing operation in the U.S. Skiers from around the world are discovering the excellent cat skiing and other snow sports that Brundage Mountain Resort offers.

  • Snowy ski slope with trees and a blue barrier, people standing near the base.

    Little Ski Hill

    Kids can learn to board and ski during after-school programs and enjoy skiing under the lights most weekends on this hill that once hosted athletes training for the Olympics.

  • People cross-country skiing on snowy terrain, one wearing a colorful jester hat, with trees in the background.

    Nordic Skiing

    Along with over three miles of private River Ranch community trails, groomed trails can be found at the Activity Barn, Bear Basin, Ponderosa Park, and McCall Golf Course. 

  • Person riding an orange and white snowmobile in a snowy forest with pine trees and a clear sky.

    Snowmobiling

    With over 500 miles of groomed trails, McCall is considered a premier area to access the snow-covered mountains.

  • Child in snow gear sitting on snowy slope with inner tube

    Snow Tubing

    Enjoy a swift ride down one of the several tubing hill runs and then jump back on the tube for a lift assisted ride back to the top at the Activity Barn.

  • A person snowshoeing on a snowy terrain with trees in the background, wearing a white jacket, black leggings, and sunglasses, using poles for support.

    Snow Shoeing

    Snowshoeing in McCall offers a serene way to explore the winter landscape, with trails winding through pristine forests and along the shores of Payette Lake.

  • A person relaxing in a steaming outdoor hot spring surrounded by snowy wooden buildings and pine trees.

    Hot Springs

    In winter, venturing to hot springs like Burgdorf or Gold Fork near McCall provides a welcome respite from the snowy landscape, where soaking in the warm waters amidst the frosty surroundings offers a blissful and rejuvenating experience.

  • Group of people riding fat bikes on a snowy trail in a forested area.

    Fat Tire Biking

    Fat tire biking in winter transforms McCall into a thrilling playground, as riders navigate snowy trails and frozen landscapes, embracing the exhilarating challenge and stunning scenery.

  • Group of people enjoying a snow activity, with some in colorful outfits and beanies, laughing and interacting on a snowy slope.

    Winter Carnival

    The McCall Winter Carnival, a beloved annual event, transforms the town into a festive wonderland with intricate ice sculptures, lively parades, and a variety of family-friendly activities celebrating the magic of winter.

Aerial view of a snowy landscape with winding roads, a river, trees, and a partially frozen lake. Mountains and a large lake are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
Person fly fishing in a river surrounded by snow-capped hills and pine trees, with a large house in the background.
Four people in ski gear standing on a snowy mountain with a clear blue sky.
Two snowshoes standing in snow with a black thermos and stainless steel cups in front. Winter scene.

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