February 2025

Why settle for overcrowded beaches when you can embrace snow-covered peaks? Ditch the flip-flops for a pair of snow boots for a spring break getaway in the mountains. But pack your swimsuit. Trust us, you’ll need it.

Spring break is almost here! It’s the small taste of freedom kids get to experience for one week as they start the countdown to summer. So why get a head start on summer when you can experience spring break in the mountains? Pack your bags, car snacks, and set your GPS to Shore Lodge! This is your five-day, family-friendly mountain trip itinerary to spend spring break in McCall.

Day 1 – Settling in at Shore Lodge

The saying “It’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey” holds true. The drive from Boise to McCall, Idaho, is a sight to behold. Winding roads reveal expansive valleys. The rushing water of rivers invites adventure enthusiasts to indulge in whitewater rafting. Snowcapped mountains stand tall, adorned with towering Ponderosa pines. There’s a reason Highway 55 was designated as a National Scenic Byway. This 112.9-mile drive from Boise Airport to Shore Lodge is an adventure in itself. Make sure to stop along the way to stretch your legs and embrace the wonders of Idaho, including one of the most iconic landmarks, Rainbow Bridge, which has been a connecting point between Boise and McCall since 1933.

Depending on when you arrive, if you’re officially running on empty from your car snacks, drop your bags off in your suite and meet us downstairs for casual Pacific Northwest fare. The Cutwater on Payette Lake is our casual eatery, offering bold flavors and scenic views seven days a week.

Get front-row seats to see Brundage Mountain in the far distance and a frozen Payette Lake. Or sit towards the back with views of our 2,000-gallon saltwater fish tank. While your meal is prepared, the kids can unwind and get some game time at The Tank. Adjacent to The Cutwater on Payette Lake, The Tank is our analog game room, featuring foosball, classic board games, and more.

Remember how we said to pack your swimsuit? We hope you took our advice because regardless of the temperature outside, taking a dip in our outdoor heated pool and hot tub should always be on your to-do list. Have the kids make a splash by playing Marco Polo or mermaids until it’s time to wrap it up and get your much-needed rest.

Day 2 – Chasing Thrills at Brundage Mountain

Mother Nature is too kind to us sometimes. That’s why our ski seasons run late into the year. Meaning don’t just pack your swimsuit, pack your skis too because Shore Lodge is as versatile as it can be. Start your morning bright and early because our complimentary shuttle departs for Brundage at 9am. Grab a quick bite at our Coffee Shop before heading out to hit the slopes.

Once you’ve shredded some powder, it’s time to head back to Shore Lodge. Our complimentary shuttle will be at the Brundage Mountain Adventure at 4pm for pick up. And after a day of play in the snow, The Bar‘s seasonal cocktails will be there to warm you up. Order our Rye Chai Toddy to keep you warm and pair it with one of our shared plates or entrees to replenish your energy.

After a quick refresh and perhaps a short nap, it’s time to head into town for a casual dinner with the family.

Our complimentary shuttle is available for all guests, just be sure to let us know at least 24 hours in advance to reserve your ride. Once you’re in town, you’ll have a variety of dining options to choose from. Savor the flavors of the Far East at the Sushi Bar, indulge in a juicy burger at Frenchie’s, or delight in freshly caught seafood at Steamers Steak & Seafood. When your dinner is complete, our complimentary shuttle will be ready to bring you back to Shore Lodge.

Day 3 – Lollygagging and Lounging at The Cove

Sometimes, you might feel like you haven’t fully enjoyed your vacation if you aren’t out by 8am and back in your suite by 8pm. But we’re here to debunk that. There’s nothing wrong with taking a slow day. And after an action-packed day on day two, the overall sentiment for this day is to take things down a pace. Start your morning by cuddling up in your Shore Lodge robe and calling room service for breakfast-in-bed vibes. While you wait for breakfast to arrive, brew yourself a cup of coffee or tea with your in-room Keurig.

Once you’ve finished your breakfast, make your way over to The Cove for a much-needed spa appointment. Because after a day on the slopes, who wouldn’t want an adventure in luxury? Whether you receive a deep tissue massage, a hydrating facial, or an invigorating body treatment, arguably the best experience of your spa day will be soaking in our saltwater immersion pools. With up to a two-hour soak time, you won’t want to leave.

In line with our slow pace today, after your spa treatment, get dressed and take our complimentary cruiser bikes or shuttle to the center of town. Shop at The McCall Store for a local souvenir, take the kiddos to the Manchester Ice Rink & Events Center to shred some ice, or visit Legacy Park to take family pictures with a phenomenal backdrop of mountain-lake views.

Day 4 – Snowmobile Adventure to Burgdorf Hot Springs

Time to mix adventure with leisure with a snowmobile adventure to Burgdorf Hot Springs. As our Director of Lodging, John Wood, said, “The beauty of traveling is trying something new for the first time.” And we doubt many people can say they’ve snowmobiled through Payette National Forest to get to the historic, rustic Burgdorf Hot Springs.

Count on the Shore Lodge team to provide you with a list of local vendors who’ll guide you on this unique McCall experience. Pack your snowmobile suit and your swimsuit for a journey unlike any other. Traverse through the snow-covered terrain of Payette National Forest for approximately 25 miles before you reach your destination. Available by appointment only, Burgdorf Hot Springs features three log-lined pools ranging from 100-113°F for you to unwind and relax. The larger pool features a partitioned shallow pool to accommodate the young ones.

The adventure doesn’t end there. After returning from your excursion into McCall’s backcountry, it’s time to enjoy a culinary adventure at The Cutwater on Payette Lake. Our seasonal menu guarantees one thing: hearty comfort food to feed the soul. Make sure you leave some extra room for dessert for your turndown cookie.

Day 5 – Snowshoeing through Payette National Park

We’re big advocates of blazing your own trail, so you know we had to include snowshoeing in the itinerary. Get out and discover McCall’s winter magic by strapping on a pair of snowshoes and exploring Ponderosa State Park. With many trails ranging in difficulty level, bear the face of adventure with a little challenge or take a stroll to soak up the winter wonderland landscape.

What better way to conclude your trip than spending it at Shore Lodge? Watch a movie on the big screen in our private movie theater. Take the kids to get their game on at The Tank, our analog game room with classic board games, a foosball table, and a giant foosball table. Enjoy our complimentary s’mores station. Squeeze in one more dip at our heated pool and hot tub. And don’t forget to stop at The Mercantile for a keepsake of your time with us.

Now, that’s how you take on spring break in the mountains. With so much to do and a five-day itinerary already completed for you, what are you waiting for? Spring to Shore Lodge for spring break.

For more information on: booking an appointment at The Cove, our complimentary shuttle that’ll transport you to Brundage Mountain or into town, or a list of local vendors to take you snowmobiling to Burgdorf Hot Springs, please contact our front desk at 800.657.6464.