Winter is when McCall shows what it's made for. The lake freezes, the pines load up with snow, and the town that spends summer on the water spends the cold months on skis, snowshoes and sleds.
Brundage Mountain
Brundage is the hometown mountain, a short drive north of downtown. It's known for its snow and its tree skiing, and on a powder morning the lift line is full of people who live close enough to have checked the report at breakfast.
Tamarack Resort
South of McCall, near Donnelly, Tamarack climbs West Mountain with views over Lake Cascade. It's a full resort with slopeside lodging and homes, and a good choice if ski-in, ski-out living is the goal.
Nordic, backcountry and snowmobiling
Not every winter day needs a lift ticket. Groomed cross-country trails, including those at Ponderosa State Park and Little Ski Hill, start minutes from town. The Payette National Forest opens up hundreds of miles of snowmobile and backcountry terrain.
The town that spends summer on the water spends winter on skis.
Winter Carnival
Each winter, McCall's Winter Carnival fills downtown with snow sculptures, a parade and fireworks over the lake. It's the town's biggest party of the year and a good reason to plan a weekend.
Living with snow
A winter home here should be easy to arrive at. Look for a heated or covered entry, a garage big enough for gear and a plan for plowing. Ask neighbors or a local agent how the road is maintained. Small things make the difference between a cozy weekend and a long night with a shovel.
