McCall is a dog lover’s dream. Whether it is a morning walk for coffee through downtown or an adventurous hike up the mountain, we have everything you need to keep Fido happy this summer. Here are our top 5 dog-friendly activities in McCall:
SWIM
Cool off your four-legged friends with paddleboard outing along the Upper Payette River. Bring your own stand-up paddleboard or rent from Backwoods Adventures, located at the North Beach Boat Ramp.
If a quick dip is more your speed, hit up one of McCall’s beautiful beaches. Dogs are welcome on a leash and outside of buoyed swim areas!
Pro Tip: Give your pup a “leg-up” with a dog life jacket. These flotation devices help minimize fatigue and bring buoyancy to your water play sessions. Pick one up at McCall Pet Outfitters (200 Lenora Street).
HIKE
Hundreds of miles of trails are ready and waiting for you to explore. Close to town, head to Ponderosa State Park and hike the Ridgeline Trail to one of two stunning overlooks. For an off-leash adventure, try one of the trails accessible off Warren Wagon Road. We love the Pearl Lake hike for an easy walk or the Loon Lake Loop for those ready for a challenge. Learn more about McCall parks.
Pro Tip: The summer heat can catch up with pets quickly. Always pack fresh water for your dog and consider a cooling bandanna or wrap if you are headed out for an extended hike.
BIKE
McCall is now an I.M.B.A. Silver Ride Center and that means premier single and double track for you and your dog to explore. Jug Mountain Ranch and Bear Basin offer dog-friendly freeride trails. Hit up the Goose Creek Falls from the Last Chance Campground to meander along a shady river trail or try the rugged Bear Pete trail – from the ridgeline you can see three states!
Pro Tip: Zipping down sweeping singletrack with you can be tough on the pads of your pooch’s feet. Take care of your dog’s paws with booties. We know some dogs absolutely can’t stand booties, so if you can’t keep them on your dog, be mindful of limping and check paws regularly for small cuts.
CAMP
We are pretty positive that our dogs love roasted marshmallows over the campfire just as much as we do. McCall is a perfect place to get away from it all. For our favorite camping sites, visit our Camping Guide. These campgrounds make a perfect home base for a weekend of hiking, biking and swimming with your pets!
Pro Tip: It is hard to see your dog once the sun sets. Fortunately, there are lots of great products to shine a little light on your dog so you don’t trip on him around the campfire. Attach a small LED light clip to your pet’s regular collar or switch it out altogether for a glowing safety collar.
EAT
Dog-friendly dining options abound when the patios open for the summer season. Many of our local restaurants welcome pets in outdoor dining sections – just be sure to ask before your bring your dog in with you. We love Mountain Java for your morning coffee, My Father’s Place for a burger and shake, and Bistro 45 at the Hotel McCall Courtyard for a glass of wine.
Pro Tip: Our furry friends are masters of the “sympathy look” when it comes to food. Instead of sharing bites of your meal with your dog, bring along a chew toy or frozen treat.
Many of our hotels, houses and condos are pet friendly. Remember to mention your pet when booking! For a list of lodging options, please visit our Accommodations page.
