One of the best ways to experience McCall in the summer is on the water. And there is no better place to canoe, kayak, or paddle board than the “Meanders.” This lazy stretch of river was mean for (you guessed it) meandering. The calm, crystal clear water is perfect for kids who want to learn how to paddle on their own. Beaches along the way make it easy to stop for a break or a picnic lunch and the odds that you spot an eagle, deer, fox, or even a moose are pretty high. With only the scenic splendor to distract you, it is a perfect setting to catch up on some quality family time. Trust us; laughter just seems to sound better when it carries over the water!

Kick off your day on the Upper North Fork Meanders with a hearty breakfast in town at Café 6 Three 4, Fogglifter Cafe, the Cutwater at Shore Lodge, or Brunchette on the Lake. We recommend launching at the North Beach boat ramp. If you need to rent equipment you can do so in town from McCall Sports, Home Town Sports, or Gravity Sports – you will just need a vehicle that can get them to your launch point. You can also rent from Backwoods Adventures at the launch. With any rental, it is best to call ahead and reserve your canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and life jackets in advance.

If you haven’t had enough water after your paddling adventure, you can always hit up a hot springs! Up the road from the North Beach launch site is Burgdorf Hot Springs. This historic gem is a bucket list item in the summer AND the winter with its natural mineral springs that fluctuate between 100 and 113 degrees depending on the pool. There is a fantastic shallow area perfect for the younger kids that connects to the larger pool. Reservations are required to soak. To book your soak or stay at one of the historic cabins on site, visit burgdorfhotsprings.com.

Beach Babes

Sometimes you just need an easy win with a no-fuss hour at the beach. A few snacks and some sunscreen and you are good to go!  There are plenty of options on both Payette Lake and Lake Cascade to get some sand between your toes.

Payette Lake:

• North Beach
• Davis Beach
• Legacy Park Beach
• Rotary Park
• Brown Park
• Ponderosa State Park

Lake Cascade:

• Donnelly Boat Docks
• Tamarack Resort Waterfront
• Lake Cascade State Park Van Wyck Day Use Area