Exploring McCall’s Backcountry by Private Plane: Moments from Home at Whitetail Club

Wild and untamed. McCall’s world-class terrain calls those with a spirit for discovery and a love for the outdoors. With four distinct seasons, there’s an adventure waiting year-round. From snowmobile excursions to off-the-grid hot springs, horseback rides through alpine valleys, and ATV rides through towering Ponderosa Pines, McCall offers it all. But what if we told you there’s a way to experience McCall’s legendary wilderness, another way? One that takes you to new heights.

Located just three miles from Whitetail Club, the McCall Municipal Airport is your getaway to off-grid adventures from the sky. The airport serves both civil and governmental aviation sectors, with aircraft ranging from general aviation models to turbine-powered and business-class jets like the Gulfstream IV and the Learjet 45 series. The McCall Municipal Airport is where pilot-certified Whitetail Club members take off for their next adventure. Known as the “Gateway to the Backcountry,” McCall offers access to some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in the country.

With multiple remote airstrips reachable only by plane, it’s time to take off and explore McCall’s backcountry like never before.

Known as Idaho’s premier backcountry airstrip, Johnson Creek is a must-visit destination. Located east of McCall near Yellow Pine, this 3,400-foot grass airstrip is surrounded by towering Ponderosa Pines and rugged mountain vistas, offering pristine views of Idaho’s wilderness.

Once you land, enjoy a well-equipped campground with tables, fire pits, toilets, and showers. Before taking off and heading deeper into the backcountry, don’t miss the opportunity to soak in Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, also known as JJ Hot Springs. The trail begins near midfield on the west side of the airstrip, just a two-mile hike south and uphill to a serene soak in nature.

Rich in history, Big Creek’s 3,550-foot airstrip is your gateway to an off-grid backcountry experience. This century-old destination has long attracted pilots, hunters, and fishermen since the early 1900s. Though the original lodge was tragically lost to a fire in 2008, its legacy lived to tell the tale a decade later. Rebuilt and standing tall once again, Big Creek Lodge offers peace and solitude in the heart of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness.

Now, it welcomes a new generation of pilots and recreationists with a place to stay, dine, and explore. Nestled within 2.4 million acres of wilderness, Big Creek is a true escape from the modern world.

Located along the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Thomas Creek’s 2,100-foot turf airstrip offers access to camping, the Sunflower Hot Springs, and the exclusive Middle Fork Lodge. Just a half mile west across the river, the lodge sits on 80 acres and welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

With the Salmon River just steps away, enjoy whitewater rafting, fly fishing, or kayaking in one of the most scenic and remote areas in the country.

Remote geographical access and the thrill of soaring above McCall’s terrain are just moments away when you call Whitetail Club home. Contact our Real Estate Team to book your personalized Discovery Tour and explore the “Gateway to the Backcountry” yourself.

To learn more about the airstrips mentioned above, visit the Idaho Aviation Association.