Overview

The area surrounding McCall boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the country making it an extremely popular summer activity. Towering Ponderosa pines and thick Douglas firs make the Payette National Forest a delight for hikers and backpackers. Pristine lakes, bubbling streams and verdant alpine meadows add to the tranquil beauty found only in nature. With hundreds of miles of trails to explore and an abundance of wildlife to view along the way, hiking McCall Idaho will be an adventure you’ll never forget.

Boulder Lake

Trail Overview: This scenic hike follows the Boulder Meadows Reservoir and provides access to other fun hikes should you decide to keep exploring. Steep switchbacks make it moderately challenging in a few places.

Trailhead: To reach Boulder Meadows Reservoir, head south on Hwy 55 to Elo Road. Turn left, then right on Farm to Market Road.

• Distance: 4 miles
• Average Time of Hike: less than 1 day
• Elevation Gain: 700 feet
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Trail Type: Out and back

East Fork Lake Fork Creek

Trail Overview: This is a fun two mile hike that takes you along beautiful Lake Fork Creek. This one is perfect for kids, and is also great for horseback riding or mountain biking.

Trailhead: Follow Lick Creek Road past Little Payette Lake until you reach Lake Fork Campground. The trail head is at the north side of the bridge at the large camping area a mile further down the road.

• Distance – 2 miles
• Average Time of Hike – 1 to 2 hours
• Elevation Gain - Minimal
• Difficulty - Easy
• Trail Type – Out and back

Goose Creek Falls

Trail Overview: A scenic trek along a pristine mountain creek and through the woods to beautiful Goose Creek Falls. This trail actually loses elevation as you head down towards the waterfall.

Trailhead: Head west on Hwy 55 then turn off on Goose Lake Road towards Brundage Mountain. Drive for 3 miles to the trailhead at the parking area.

• Distance: About 2 miles round trip.
• Average Time of Hike: 2 hours
• Elevation Gain: You lose about 680 feet in elevation.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out and back

Big Hazard Lake

Trail Overview: This is an easy hike that takes you through the forest to Big Hazard Lake – a perfect lake for canoeing or floating.

Trailhead: Take Hwy 55 to Goose Lake Road, and drive for about 27 miles to the Big Hazard Lake trailhead.

• Distance: 1 mile round trip.
• Average Time of Hike: Less than 1 hour.
• Elevation Gain: Very little as the trail is mostly flat.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out and back

Box Lake Trail

Trail Overview: Steep terrain, multiple switchbacks, and some loose rocks along the way make this 8 mile hike a bit more challenging than some, but the stunning view from over 340 feet above Box Lake is well worth it.

Trailhead: From McCall, take Lick Creek Road and follow it for 11 miles to get to the trailhead.

• Distance: 8 miles
• Average Time of Hike: about 1 day
• Elevation Gain: 1863 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Type: Out and back

Notes

Always be sure to wear good hiking shoes to provide optimal footing on trails that have steep terrain or loose rock. Bring plenty of water so you don’t get dehydrated. Always check with the local forest ranger regarding weather conditions before you head out. For McCall Idaho hiking, always bring your camera to snap pictures of some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll ever find. Find a few hiking resources on the McCall Hiking Club Website.