5 Best Fall Hikes Near McCall
PLUS fall discounts on stays at both Nordic Inn & Scandia Inn!
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Hiking near McCall, Idaho in the fall is a breathtaking experience, with trails in Payette National Forest and around Lake Cascade showcasing vibrant autumn hues. The crisp air and serene nature enhance the experience for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Wildlife becomes more active, adding excitement to each hike. Whether exploring gentle valleys or challenging mountains, fall hiking in this picturesque region offers unforgettable memories amidst Idaho’s stunning wilderness.
So grab your hiking buddy and explore our staff picks for the best fall hikes around McCall!
1. LOUIE LAKE
When the fall colors pop around Louie Lake, you’ll get photo ops you won’t soon forget! This hike is so close to McCall, you can get there and back to your cozy room with Scandia Hotels within 3 hours. That said, we recommend you take your time and soak in the majestic views of Jughandle Mountain as a backdrop.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 4 miles out and back.
Why we love it: Close to McCall, gorgeous high mountain lake with epic views, wildflowers, Dogs welcome (must be on a leash), fishing.
2. DEEP LAKE
The drive to this trailhead will take you on a relaxing, scenic drive north of McCall, just past Upper Payette Lake. The trail isn’t too challenging so it’s perfect everyone! Expect to share the lake with others as it’s quite popular especially from July to September. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of room to enjoy a secluded picnic under the big skies above Deep Lake.
Make sure to bring a camera. The sunset views here are top notch according to many hikers!
Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 1.8 miles out and back.
Why we love it: Accompanied by a scenic drive, gorgeous high mountain lake with lots of places to jump in for a swim, wildflowers, Dogs welcome (must be on a leash), fishing.
3. JOSEPHINE LAKE
This hidden gem north of McCall, Idaho takes you quite a ways up historic and scenic Wagon Warren Road. You’ll then traverse a dirt road some 3 or 4 miles to the high elevation trailhead. From there it’s a short hike to this pristine lake that sits among some of the highest peaks in the area. There are some outcroppings on the northwest side of the lake that are great for diving!
CAUTION: The drive up to the trailhead from Wagon Warren Road can get a little bumpy. It’s not a bad idea to bring a car that’s more suited for off-roading.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 1.6 miles out and back from the upper trailhead.
Why we love it: Short and sweet with epic views, scenic drive to trailhead, wildflowers, wildlife, dogs welcome (must be on a leash), fishing.
4. BLUE LAKE
This one will take you south of McCall to scenic West Mountain near Cascade, ID. After a long, dusty ride up West Mountain Road, you’ll stop at the trailhead where you can actually see the lake! Then it’s all downhill through meadows and thickets to this picturesque, high mountain lake!
Beware of bugs! Bring your spray.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 1.6 miles out and back.
Why we love it: Short and sweet with epic views, slightly different scenery from the rest of our picks, wildflowers, Dogs welcome (must be on a leash), fishing.
5. GOOSE CREEK FALLS
Just before you reach Brundage Mountain, you’ll find the trailhead to Goose Creek Falls. It’s a hike that packs a lot of punch in just 3 miles. Complete with expansive views, a bridge over whitewater, a waterfall, and swimming depending on how you brave the cold, this hike is sure to be remembered years later!
CAUTION: The hike down to the falls from the trail can be a little sketchy so make sure to lend a hand to any less experienced hikers!
Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 3 miles out and back.
Why we love it: Dog friendly, Waterfall, Swimming, Great for Kids, Easy to Find, Great Parking, Established Trailhead and Trail.
FALL PROMOTION
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FALL PROMOTION 〰️
FALL DISCOUNTS SO YOU CAN GET YOUR HIKE ON…
Use promo code FALLINMCCALL5 for 5% off any overnight stay
Use promo code FALLINMCCALL10 for 10% off any 2 night stay
Use promo code FALLINMCCALL15 for 15% off any 3+ night stays
**Valid only through 10.31.24. Terms and restrictions apply. Not valid with 3rd party bookings.**
