McCall in September: Why Fall Is the Best-Kept Secret Season

Labor Day weekend gets all the attention. Everyone rushes up Highway 55 for one last summer send-off, the lake is packed, and reservations disappear months in advance. I get it. But here's what most people miss: the week after Labor Day, McCall becomes a completely different place, and honestly? That's the version I love most.

The crowds thin out. The temperature drops. The air shifts into that crisp, pine-scented fall sweetness that the Valley doesn't get until October. And Payette Lake is still absolutely stunning.

If you've only ever done McCall in July, you're missing the best chapter.

Fall in the Mountains

What September Actually Looks Like

The temperatures in September typically run in the low 70s during the day and drop into the 40s at night. It's hoodie weather by the lake and perfect hiking weather on the trails. The Payette National Forest starts showing gold and orange in the aspens, especially later in the month, and the views from the ridgelines are genuinely breathtaking.

The tourists are mostly gone. Restaurants are fully staffed but not slammed. You can actually get a table at Shore Lodge without a three-week lead time.

The Payette Lake Run: September 6, 2026

If you're heading up around Labor Day weekend, build your trip around the Payette Lake Run on September 6th. It's a trail and road race event set against the backdrop of the lake, and it draws a great crowd of outdoor people who love McCall as much as we do. Even if you're not running, the energy around town that weekend is fun.

Best Things To Do in McCall in September

• Hit the Trails Before the Snow - September is the sweet spot for hiking in McCall. The summer crowds are gone, the wildflowers have given way to fall color, and the trails are dry. My favorites for fall foliage: Goose Creek Falls Trail is beautiful and doable for most fitness levels. Boulder Lake Trail takes more effort but rewards you with high-alpine views and aspen groves that turn gold in late September. And if you want a big adventure, the Loon Lake route through the backcountry is something special. Brundage Mountain's biking trails are another great call. The 2.8-mile single-track and the Hidden Valley trail are technically solid and scenic.

• Payette Lake Is Still Yours - Don't write off the lake just because summer is winding down. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on Payette Lake in September is peaceful in a way that July just isn't. Scenic cruises run through late September, so if you want the on-the-water experience without the paddle, that works too. The light in September is softer and the photos you'll get are honestly better.

• Steelhead Season Opens on the Salmon River - This is a big deal for anyone who fishes. Fall steelhead on the Salmon River is some of the best fishing in the region, and McCall is a natural base for accessing it. The river comes alive in September and October.

• Hot Springs Season - This is the real reason I tell people to come in fall. Gold Fork Hot Springs in Donnelly is about 20 minutes from McCall, and soaking in a natural geothermal pool when the air is crisp and the leaves are changing is one of those Idaho experiences that just hits differently. Burgdorf Hot Springs is another option if you want the full backcountry vibe, though the road in requires a capable vehicle.

• The Farmers Market Is Still Running - The McCall Farmers Market runs through October on Moonridge Drive, right next to the lake. Local produce, baked goods, and a view. It's a great Saturday morning stop before you head out for a hike.

• Golf Without Waiting - September is prime golf season in McCall and you can actually get a tee time without planning weeks ahead. Jug Mountain Ranch is the standout. The course is beautiful, the pace of play is relaxed, and the mountain backdrop makes it worth it even if golf isn't your main thing.

Where to Stay in McCall This Fall

This is where I'll be direct with you: September rates at vacation rentals in McCall are significantly lower than summer pricing. You can get a bigger house, on the lake or near the trails, for less than you'd pay for a smaller place in July. If you've been waiting for the right time to do the McCall trip with family or a group of friends, September is it.

A few things to look for in a vacation rental for a fall trip: a hot tub (non-negotiable in my opinion), a fireplace or wood stove for those cold nights, and a kitchen that's actually equipped. You're going to want to cook at least a couple of meals in after a full day outside.

We have rentals available through Idaho Maven that check all of those boxes.

One More Thing

September in McCall doesn't stay a secret forever. More and more people are figuring out that fall is the move, and I'm seeing bookings grow year over year in this shoulder season. If you want the quiet version, now is the time.

Ready to book your fall McCall trip? Browse available dates and cabins at book.idahomaven.com. September weekends are still available, but not for long.

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If you’re looking for a ski-in ski-out cabin in McCall, this is one of the most memorable stays we offer at Idaho Maven.

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About the Author

Josie Daines is Director of Hospitality and Guest Experience at Idaho Maven, specializing in luxury short-term rental experiences across Idaho.

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