Seasoned skiers know that finding good snow takes scrupulous calculation – geographic location, humidity, dew point, and weather history are all important factors to consider – but no snow-finding formula is complete without the main component: elevation!
If you’re wondering, “What’s the elevation of McCall, Idaho?” The answer is: A whopping 5,013 feet above sea level. It’s no wonder why winters here produce some of the best snow in the state! Whether you’re looking to ski, snowboard, or partake in any other winter sports, McCall, Idaho, is the best ski destination in the Rocky Mountain West. Even National Geographic named McCall, Idaho, in its list of Best Secret Ski Towns in North America! So, before you take a ski trip on crowded slopes or subpar snow, take a look at some of the commonly asked questions about skiing in McCall below!
Is there good skiing in Idaho?
Plain & simple: Idaho has some of the best ski conditions in the country. Since you’re already clued into McCall, Idaho’s elevation, and its positive effects on our winter sports, it’s safe to say there’s no skiing like McCall skiing. Boasting incredible mountain-lake views, nationally recognized accommodations, and a selection of apres-ski restaurants and bars, McCall, Idaho, is giving the big name ski destinations a run for their money.
Though good snow is the main factor to consider when you’re looking for the best Idaho ski resort, other factors make or break your winter adventure trip – namely traffic, large crowds, or long lift lines that delay your downhill thrills. So, you may ask yourself:
Where are the shortest ski lift lines in Idaho?
Seeing that McCall, Idaho is a bit of a secret ski town, (and we like to keep it that way), the winter crowds are relatively tame compared to other preeminent ski destinations! Ski resorts near McCall, Idaho and its vicinity tend to have short wait times, uncrowded ski runs, and plenty of shrouded slopes for backcountry adventures!
Once you get up the mountain, you’ll quickly realize that the town of McCall is secluded but not off the grid. Here, you’ll find most of the comforts of Boise or Sun Valley but none of the big town crowds. And if you’re wondering where to ski while you’re here, check out the following question:
What ski resorts are in Idaho?
Though there are many ski resorts in The Gem State, “The Best Snow in Idaho™” can be found at Brundage Mountain. With over 1,920 acres of lift-accessed backcountry terrain, there are 68 named trails for every skill level! If you’re looking for wide groomed runs, explore the slopes of the Frontside or the Lakeview zone. And for those in search of untouched powder and rugged adventure, the far-out corners of Hidden Valley are the designated place for backcountry discoveries. And though McCall Idaho’s elevation is pretty high, it is no match for the altitude of Brundage Mountain’s Summit – a whopping 7,803 feet above sea level – making it the best spot for downhill thrills. Every. Single. Winter.
Want to visit Brundage on your next ski trip? You’ll need directions:
Where is Brundage Mountain?
Brundage Mountain is THE definitive ski mountain of McCall, Idaho. If you’re traveling from Sun Valley, Idaho, Brundage Mountain is about 4 hours and a 39-minute drive. And it’s even closer if you’re coming in from Boise, Idaho – just 2 hours and 32 minutes. The drive up is scenic, with views of the valleys, mountains, and glacial rivers that run through the state. If you’re going up ID-55, you’ll even see the Rainbow Bridge, one of the most scenic sights in the Rocky Mountain region.
But before your drive, you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly. Be sure to book your accommodations (we recommend Shore Lodge) and check the road conditions in advance. And most importantly, you’ll need to ensure that the mountain is primed and open for the season!
When does Brundage close for the season?
Brundage Mountain’s season runs from Mid-November through Mid-April. McCall’s winter conditions are perfect for all types of snow sports. Though the powder doesn’t last forever, McCall, Idaho’s elevation allows you to enjoy the perfectly powdery snow until March! Of course, this depends on the average seasonal temperature and the recent snowfall levels. But if you’re looking for spring skiing in Idaho, McCall is the best place to find it. And though Brundage Mountain’s pulse-pounding downhill slopes are worth the drive, but what would your winters look like if you had a vacation home in McCall, Idaho?
Are there homes for sale near the ski slopes of McCall, Idaho?
Whitetail Club is the premier private community in the Pacific Northwest and ranks high on the list of where to buy your second home! Whether you plan to build a house in McCall, Idaho, or purchase one of our available listings, Whitetail Club is the ideal spot for the home of your dreams.
New homes in McCall, Idaho, come in many shapes and sizes, but Whitetail Club’s Design-Build Collection are among the most beautiful luxury homes in The Gem State. You can choose to build your modern estate on a ridgetop with scenic views of the valley or down in the basin of the property with easy access to everything McCall, Idaho, has to offer. And when the snow has melted, our award-winning golf course is the perfect place to spend your summer day. And if golf is your priority, we have a neighborhood just for you – The Fairways. These luxury townhomes are perfectly situated between our mountain-lake town’s natural wonders and our championship 18-hole golf course, making it the perfect residence for those who love golfing in the summer and skiing in the winter!
Our luxury private community offers members with exclusive access to year-round amenities as well as an annual event calendar packed with exciting wine dinners, socials, fitness classes, and golf tournaments! Winter lovers can explore miles of exclusive members-only winter trails, a skating rink, a sledding hill, countless miles of untouched backcountry snow, and a short drive to the thrills of Brundage Mountain. Summer adventurers can experience our award-winning championship golf course, boating on Payette Lake, waterfront restaurants & hot tubs, outdoor tennis & pickleball courts, and effortless access to some of the most scenic hikes in the country! Moreover, Whitetail Club provides members with exclusive access to a fitness facility with the latest equipment, an award-winning spa, a year-round golf training studio with state-of-the-art technology, and so much more!
