Hiking in McCall is one of the best ways to experience the area.

It is not just about the trails. It is about where they take you. Quiet forests, alpine lakes, wide-open views, and moments where everything slows down a little.

Within a short drive of town, you can find hikes for every kind of day. Easy walks with lake views. Shaded trails that stay cool in the summer. Longer hikes that lead to places that feel far away from everything.

If you are planning a summer trip to McCall, these are the hikes locals come back to again and again.

1. Ponderosa State Park (Best for Easy, Scenic Trails)

If you only have time for one place to hike, start here.

Ponderosa State Park sits right along Payette Lake, offering miles of well-maintained trails with constant views of the water.

Why people love it:

  • Easy to moderate trails for all levels
  • Close to town
  • Lake views almost the entire time

The Payette Lake Peninsula Trail is a favorite for a relaxed walk, while the hike to Osprey Point or the overlook at Deer Point gives you a little more elevation and a bigger view.

Local tip: This is one of the few places where you can hike without fully leaving the lake behind.

Vacation Rentals near Ponderosa State Park

Ponderosa State Park’s website

2. Bear Basin (Best All-Around Trail System)

Just outside of McCall, Bear Basin is where locals go for consistency.

It is not about one specific trail. It is about the network.

What to expect:

  • Miles of interconnected trails
  • Mostly shaded forest terrain
  • Options for quick hikes or longer loops

You can keep it short or extend your route depending on how you feel once you are out there.

Local tip: This is one of the best spots for a last-minute hike when you do not want to overthink it.

3. Boulder Lake (Best “Worth It” Hike)

If you are looking for a hike with a bigger payoff, Boulder Lake is one of the best in the area.

The trail climbs steadily through the forest before opening up to an alpine lake surrounded by mountains.

What to expect:

  • Moderate difficulty
  • Roughly 6–7 miles round trip
  • Elevation gain with a strong finish

It is the kind of hike where you slow down at the top and stay a while.

Local tip: Snow can linger into early summer. Check conditions before you go.

4. Goose Creek Falls (Best Short Hike with a Destination)

If you want something shorter with a clear reward, Goose Creek Falls is a great option.

What to expect:

  • Around 3 miles out and back
  • Waterfall at the end
  • Good for a half-day outing

It is a great balance between effort and reward.

5. Brundage Mountain (Best for Views Without the Full Effort)

Brundage Mountain Resort is not just for winter.

In the summer, you can:

  • Hike from the base
  • Or take the lift up and explore from the top

Why it stands out:

  • Big views with less effort
  • Wildflowers in mid-summer
  • Open terrain compared to forested trails

For information on scenic chair lift passes visit Brundage’s website.

Local tip: Even if you are not planning a full hike, taking the lift up is worth it for the views alone.

How to Choose Your Hike

  • Easy + scenic: Ponderosa State Park
  • Flexible + local favorite: Bear Basin
  • More effort + big reward: Boulder Lake
  • Short + rewarding: Goose Creek Falls
  • Views with less effort: Brundage Mountain

Pro Tips Before You Go

These matter more than people expect:

  • Bring more water than you think you need.
    If you have gone through half your water, it is time to turn around.
  • Use the AllTrails app and download your map before you leave.
    Many hikes around McCall have little to no cell service.
  • Start earlier than you think.
    Trails are cooler, quieter, and better in the morning.
  • Check trail conditions.
    Higher elevation hikes can hold snow into early summer.

Whatever adventure you choose, you should always have a comfortable and cozy home to come back to at the end of the day. Browse our McCall Area Vacation Rentals, including cabins, condos, and homes.