Louie Lake + Boulder Lake

By McKenzie Kraemer

If you ask anyone where to hike in McCall, Boulder Lake and Louie Lake are sure to make the short list. These twin hikes are iconic for their accessible trailhead access, appeal to all ages, and beauty. These are trails that don’t just take you from point A to B…they stick with you. For locals and visitors alike, these two lakes offer a snapshot of everything we love about hiking in McCall: big views, clear water, and just enough challenge to earn your picnic spot.

Hike them individually or explore both by traversing the connecting path between the two lakes. (Oh, and Boulder Meadows Reservoir at the trailheads is a destination itself!)Just be sure to bring appropriate footwear and opt for a closed-toe shoes.

Boulder Lake

Boulder Lake may be the most well-known hike in the area, and for good reason. With its sweeping valley views, wildflower-studded meadows, and the “infinity edge” created by its dam, this 3.2-mile round-trip trail is a local favorite. Depending on the season, the last climb to the lake is surreal as the trail winds up through a waterfall.

It’s a bit more challenging than Louie – expect about 800 feet of elevation gain – but still very family-friendly. If you’re hiking with kids ready to graduate to the next level of trail adventures, this is your spot.

At the top, the lake stretches out invitingly, flanked by granite ridges and dense forest. Don’t forget to take a photo from the dam’s edge – it’s like nature’s version of an infinity pool! There are also several camping locations dotted around the shoreline for an overnight stay under the stars.

Louie Lake

Nestled beneath the rugged Jughandle Mountain, Louie Lake is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression. Its shimmering waters are so clear you’ll think twice before tossing a rock in and disrupting the tranquility. At just 2.5 miles round-trip, this hike is a manageable outing for most and a popular pick for anglers looking to pack in a float tube and chase trophy cutthroat trout. Yes, it’s that kind of lake.

The trail itself is short but scenic, climbing through forests and open meadows before delivering a stunning view of Jughandle’s granite peak mirrored on the lake’s surface. There is one steep section that will get your legs burning, but it is a short run and spending a few hours around this beautiful lake makes the effort more than worth it.

Extend Your Adventure: Connecting Boulder and Louie Lakes

If you’re feeling ambitious – and have the time and stamina – you can link Boulder and Louie Lakes via a connecting trail that winds through the ridges between the two. This route transforms two mellow out-and-backs into a memorable loop. Expect around 6.8 to 7 miles for the total loop depending on your starting point, with moderate elevation gain and a solid dose of solitude between the lakes.

It’s the perfect option for those who want a full day on the trail without straying too far from town. Pack plenty of water, a snack or two, and maybe a fly rod for a midday break at either lake.

We like to start the loop by hiking to Boulder Lake. Once there, the connecting trail can be found at the end of the lake, the intersection marked by a small rock cairn. Stay to the right and climb the hillside (this is one of the best places to see wildflowers in the summer!). About a mile in, the trail turns upward and will peak at about 7,700 feet in elevation before descending toward Louie Lake’s shoreline. The route between lakes is approximately three miles long.

Both lakes are accessible in the spring, summer, and fall – depending on the weather.

Spring (Late May & June): Start late morning when the sun has had time to warm the trail. Expect pockets of snow and some wet/muddy/icy spots. Bring extra socks and a trekking pole for slippery sections.

Summer (July – September): This is peak hiking (and wildflower) season. Be sure to throw in a can of bug spray and plenty of water. The trails can get busy this time of year (at least by McCall standards). An early start can give you the best chance of having the trail to yourself!

Fall (October – early November): The colors are stunning and worth another visit even if you have hiked these routes earlier in the year. Mornings can be crisp and afternoons warm so bring layers. We also recommend wearing bright/reflective clothing in the fall as an extra alert to hunters who may be in the area.

Trailhead Directions: From McCall, drive south on Highway 55 and turn left onto Elo Road. Take the left fork after 2.8 miles onto Boulder Lake Road. Follow this road to its end at a campground about 5 miles in. Turn left to park for Boulder Lake or right to park for the Louie Lake Trailhead. The trailhead for Boulder Lake can be found at the base of the Boulder Meadow Reservoir dam, while the trail for Louie Lake starts by crossing Boulder Creek.

Trail Etiquette

Just like at the dinner table, hiking has its own set of etiquette rules to abide by to keep everyone safe and happy on the trail:

• Downhill hikers yield to uphill hikers.
• Passing lanes are like driving – walk on the right and pass on the left
• Mountain bikers yield to hikers, hikers and mountain bikers yield to horseback riders
• Keep your dog under control or leashed if required by the trail and always clean up after your pet.
• Be friendly to other hikers – along with being the nice thing to do, it is also a great way to learn about trail conditions ahead. Plus, if you are solo hiking, it is great to have someone know where you have been in case of an emergency.
• Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out (trash, recyclables, food waste), stay on the trail to avoid damaging the surrounding environment, and don’t add to or take away from rock cairns.
• Be mindful, not fearful of wildlife. There is a good chance you will encounter a deer, elk, moose, fox, bear, or other animal while in the forest. Educate yourself on the best ways to steer clear – remember that you are a visitor to their home!