Gateway to the Backcountry

McCall’s beauty is undisputed. With millions of acres of unspoiled wilderness, scenic mountain peaks, and various nature preserves, exploring all its hidden gems would be unfeasible, even with an entire summer. But there’s a way it’s still attainable by flying a couple of thousand feet above land. Less than a two-mile drive from Shore Lodge is McCall Aviation, which offers site-seeing tours from a bird’s eye view. Dubbed the “Gateway to the Backcountry,” McCall is a base to fly to backcountry mountain wildernesses, epic river canyons, and Idaho’s most remote airstrips. Aviation enthusiasts have brought recreational flying into the spotlight, and with the exquisite surroundings at Shore Lodge, aviators are taking to the skies to explore remote locations throughout the state. With its prime location, Shore Lodge provided and unapparelled basecamp for adventure seekers.

Big Creek (U60) | Length 3,500 ft. | Elevation 5,743 ft.

Surrounded by piercing mountain ridges, untamed wilderness, and brilliantly blue remote lakes, at a mere 15-minute flight away from McCall, Big Creek has been one of Idaho’s premier backcountry airstrip destinations for nearly a century and is home to the historic Big Creek Lodge and world-class wilderness hikes. Since its development in 1934, Big Creek has attracted countless outdoor enthusiasts seeking backcountry experiences. Once you land, a stacked itinerary of fishing, hunting, hiking, and more allows you to get lost in the natural beauty of the Gem State.

Johnson Creek(3U2) | Length: 3,400 ft. | Elevation: 4,960 ft.

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.

Thomas Creek (2U8) | Length: 2,100 ft. | Elevation: 1,320 ft.

Soar over the Middle Fork Salmon River and land at Thomas Creek. Only half a mile west, on the other side of the river, sits Middle Fork Lodge. Land your aircraft and choose from one of their seven meticulously hand-built custom log cabins and awake to uncharted backcountry at your ready. Rugged and real, roam free and choose from soaking in soothing hot springs nearby, strapping up your saddle on a guided horseback riding excursion, and so much more.

Conveniently located only moments away from all the action sits Shore Lodge, our 77-suite boutique resort, is right on the edge of the wild to allow you to continue exploring new frontiers for the entire summer ahead. Offering our own gems, such as our luxurious spa, The Cove, direct access to Payette Lake, and a state-of-the-art 43-seat private theater, don’t only explore McCall’s hidden gems. Explore ours as well. Discover what other adventures await this season by visiting our summer adventures page or calling us at 800.657.6464. Stay inspired by following us on Instagram, Facebook, and X!

To book your next vacation at Shore Lodge, click here or call us at 800.657.6464. Also, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to stay connected!