McCall, ID

McCall, Idaho, is a small city situated on the southern shore of Payette Lake in Valley County. The history of McCall dates back centuries before the arrival of European settlers. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Shoshone and Nez Perce tribes.

In the early 1800s, European fur trappers and explorers began venturing into the region. A notable explorer, Captain E.D. Pierce, led an expedition to the area in 1862, discovering the natural beauty of the area and the abundant wildlife. However, it was not until the 1870s that permanent settlers began to establish their presence in the area.

In 1889, the town of McCall was formally established. The city was named after Tom McCall, a prominent local settler and leader of the expedition that reached the area in 1862. The early economy of McCall was primarily based on logging and mining, with numerous sawmills and mines operating in the nearby forests and mountains.

The community experienced considerable growth in the early 1900s due to the arrival of the railroad in 1914. This allowed for easier transportation of timber and enhanced connectivity with other towns and cities in the region. McCall also became a popular tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains.

During World War II, McCall played a significant role in supporting the military effort. The Payette National Forest surrounding McCall provided an ideal location for training and testing, primarily for the US Army Air Forces. A number of airfields and training facilities were established, contributing to the local economy and population growth.

In the latter half of the 20th century, McCall transitioned from a resource-based economy to a focus on tourism and outdoor recreation. The city consistently attracts visitors year-round, thanks to its skiing resorts, water sports, fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.

McCall has managed to maintain its small-town charm and scenic beauty despite the growth of tourism. The city is known for its friendly community, vibrant arts scene, and numerous annual events, including the Winter Carnival, which has been a tradition since 1924.

Today, McCall continues to thrive as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a balance between tourist appeal and preserving the natural surroundings that have attracted people to the area for centuries.

Payette Lake

A stunning alpine lake that offers a range of recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding.

Brundage Mountain Resort

A popular ski resort that offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing during winter, and hiking and mountain biking during summer. The resort also offers scenic chairlift rides for breathtaking views.

Ponderosa State Park

A 1,000-acre park located on a peninsula on Payette Lake. The park features hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, beaches, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

The McCall Fish Hatchery

A visitor-friendly hatchery that offers tours and educational exhibits about the salmon and trout farming process. Visitors can learn about the life cycle of fish and explore the picturesque grounds.

Payette National Forest

A vast forested area that offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The forest is known for its scenic beauty, including waterfalls and mountains.

Burgdorf Hot Springs

A historic hot springs resort nestled in the mountains. Visitors can relax in the natural hot springs pools and enjoy the rustic charm of the area.

Activity Barn

A family-friendly attraction that offers tubing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During summer, it transforms into a recreational area with a mini-golf course, batting cages, and volleyball courts.

Lake Cascade State Park

Located nearby in Cascade, this state park offers a variety of activities including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping. It is also home to the popular Warm Lake.

Roseberry Townsite

A historic site that showcases the preserved buildings and artifacts from an early settlement. Visitors can learn about the town's history and experience a glimpse into the past.

Lakeshore Trail

A scenic trail that runs along the eastern shore of Payette Lake, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.

McCall, ID, experiences a subarctic climate with cold, snowy winters and mild, moderately warm summers. Here are some key features of the climate in McCall:

Winters

The winter season in McCall is long, lasting from around November to April. December and January are the coldest months, with average high temperatures around 28°F (-2°C) and average low temperatures dropping to 12°F (-11°C). Snowfall is significant, averaging around 100 inches (250 cm) per year. The winter season is ideal for recreational activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.

Summers

Summers in McCall are mild and pleasant. June, July, and August are the warmest months, with average high temperatures reaching up to 79°F (26°C). Average low temperatures during the summer remain cool at around 40°F (4°C). This time of year is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, boating, and exploring the nearby forests and mountains.

Spring and Fall

Both spring and fall are relatively short seasons in McCall, with temperatures transitioning between winter and summer. Spring (April and May) brings milder temperatures ranging from highs in the 50s°F (10-15°C) to lows around 30°F (-1°C). Fall (September and October) temperatures are similar, with average highs still in the 50s°F and cooler nights around freezing or slightly below.

Precipitation

McCall receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year. On average, the area receives around 23 inches (58 cm) of rainfall annually. Summers tend to be drier, while winter months see a higher percentage of precipitation in the form of snowfall.

Overall, McCall, ID, offers distinct seasonal changes, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy both winter and summer activities.

McCall, ID is a charming mountain town located in Valley County, Idaho. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, fishing, and boating. McCall is home to several unique neighborhoods, each with their own distinct characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in McCall:

Downtown McCall

The heart of the town, downtown McCall offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It has a lively atmosphere and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Downtown McCall also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.

Spring Mountain Ranch

Located just outside of downtown, Spring Mountain Ranch is a residential community that offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It provides easy access to skiing at Brundage Mountain Resort and has stunning mountain views.

Whitetail Club

Situated on the shores of Payette Lake, Whitetail Club is a premier golf and recreational community. It features luxury homes, a private golf course, a clubhouse, a spa, and other amenities. It offers a resort-style living experience.

Jug Mountain Ranch

Located a few miles south of McCall, Jug Mountain Ranch is a scenic neighborhood that offers a combination of custom homes and vacant land options. It is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and Nordic skiing.

West Central McCall

This neighborhood is situated west of downtown and is known for its charming residential streets. It offers a mix of housing options, from log cabins to modern homes. West Central McCall has a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, with many trees and natural beauty.

Aspen Ridge

Aspen Ridge is a residential community located east of downtown McCall. It offers a mix of permanent and vacation homes surrounded by pine trees and mountain views. The neighborhood provides easy access to outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in McCall, ID, each offering its own unique lifestyle and ambiance. Whether you're looking for a vibrant downtown experience, a luxury resort-style community, or a peaceful mountain retreat, McCall has a neighborhood to suit various preferences.