VALLEY COUNTY
VALLEY COUNTY
McCall and Valley County offer a breathtaking mountain retreat just two hours north of Boise, where adventure and relaxation meet. Known for its stunning natural beauty, McCall sits on the shores of Payette Lake and is surrounded by towering pines, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks. Valley County is a year-round playground — from skiing and snowmobiling in the winter at Brundage Mountain and Tamarack Resort to boating, hiking, and mountain biking in the summer.
Donnelly is home to Tamarack Resort, a premier four-season destination offering world-class skiing, golfing, lake activities, and upscale real estate that continues to attract second-home buyers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Just south, Cascade sits on the edge of Lake Cascade and offers abundant opportunities for fishing, camping, and water sports, along with a welcoming small-town feel.
McCall and its neighboring communities like Donnelly and Cascade offer a slower, more tranquil lifestyle focused on outdoor recreation, scenic views, and tight-knit community spirit. Whether you’re visiting a cozy cabin or seeking a permanent mountain escape, Valley County captures the best of Idaho’s wilderness charm.
Our Favorite Things: Valley County Edition
Ski Or Snowboard at Brundage Mountain Resort
This resort near McCall is famous for having "The Best Snow in Idaho" and offers extensive terrain for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. In the summer, you can enjoy scenic chairlift rides, hiking, and lift-served mountain biking.
Explore Ponderosa State Park
Located on a peninsula jutting into Payette Lake, this park offers miles of scenic hiking and cross-country ski trails with incredible views, plus camping and wildlife viewing opportunities. It's an easily accessible natural oasis just minutes from downtown McCall.
Soak in Gold Fork Hot Springs
Relax in a natural, tiered setting of hot spring pools built into the mountainside near Donnelly, offering a unique and rejuvenating experience surrounded by the Payette National Forest. This spot is a local favorite for unwinding after a day of outdoor adventure.
Enjoy Water Activities on Payette Lake
This stunning glacier-fed lake near McCall is the hub for summer fun, perfect for swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding with majestic mountain peaks as your backdrop. You can rent equipment or take a relaxing cruise on the clear, deep blue water.
Experience the Winter Carnival
An iconic, award-winning annual event held every January/February, featuring elaborate snow sculptures, a torchlight parade, live music, and family-friendly activities. The entire town of McCall transforms into a festive wonderland during this ten-day celebration.
Paddle or Fish on Lake Cascade
As Idaho’s fourth-largest lake, it offers ample space for fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and ice fishing in the winter, making it a year-round destination south of McCall near the town of Cascade. The surrounding Lake Cascade State Park provides numerous campgrounds and access points.