Mountain Getaways Close to Boise

One of the best parts about Boise is its proximity to the expansive mountains and wilderness Idaho offers. The Gem State is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and these locations (all a short road trip from Boise) offer a wide variety of options for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to relax, unwind, and reconnect with our landscape. If you need a place to escape the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, these mountain getaways offer a refreshing escape. 

McCall:

Nestled on the shores of stunning Payette Lake, McCall is a beautiful mountain town that draws visitors with its year-round outdoor activities. In the winter, enjoy skiing at Brundage Mountain or Tamarack Resort, both local ski resorts that offer expansive runs and top-notch snow. The summer months in McCall offer countless opportunities for hiking, boating on Payette Lake, biking, and fishing. McCall is a two hour drive from Boise.

Lodging options in McCall:

• Shore Lodge - This luxury lakeside resort offers rooms right by the water with unrivaled amenities including a spa, private movie theater, restaurant, hot tubs, and pool.
• Hotel McCall - This historic hotel sits in the heart of downtown McCall, offering a blend of old-timey charm and modern class. Amenities include an indoor pool, spa, and an outstanding in-house restaurant.

Sun Valley:

Renowned for its rich ski history  and upscale atmosphere, Sun Valley is an iconic mountain getaway. Downtown Ketchum offers a western ski town feel, with high end restaurants (try the Pioneer Saloon for a delicious steak) and classy boutiques and stores. With its world-renowned skiing (often used as a training ground for Olympians), Bald Mountain is ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders with steep pitches and long runs. There is also a second hill, Dollar Mountain, which is the perfect place for beginner skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes. In the summer, Sun Valley comes alive with beautifully green mountains filled with hiking and biking trails, and spectacular fishing in the Wood River. Sun Valley sits a three hour drive from Boise.

Lodging options in Sun Valley:

• Sun Valley Lodge - This classic resort has a rich history of celebrity guests and offers elegant accommodations and exceptional amenities. The resort is only minutes from the ski hill and is surrounded by multiple restaurants, shops, a movie theater, and a bowling alley.
• Limelight Hotel Ketchum - Limelight is a contemporary hotel with a relaxed atmosphere, situated blocks from downtown Ketchum. Amenities include mountain ski shuttles, free bike rentals, outdoor pools and hot tubs, and complimentary breakfast.

Cascade:

Cascade offers a quieter retreat, away from the crowds of popular McCall and Sun Valley. Located near the shores of Lake Cascade, this area is ideal for those seeking a serene escape with plenty of activities including boating, hunting, fishing, and hiking. Lake Cascade State Park offers stunning views and forested trails, enveloping you in nature. In the winter, activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, nordic skiing, and downhill skiing at Brundage and Tamarack which are about a 30-40 minute drive. A fun fact: Lake Cascade is not a natural lake but a reservoir. It is the 4th largest in the state, but is only 33 meters deep, making it a warm lake. Cascade is about an hour and a half minutes from Boise, and 40 minutes from McCall. 

Lodging options in Cascade:

• Hotel NoBo - This beautiful hotel stands out in Cascade as a full-service hotel offering an elevated experience. Recently renovated, these rooms are the perfect home base for your mountain adventure. 
• Alpine Lodge Hotel - The Alpine Lodge offers newly renovated rooms with modern amenities as well as a RV park. There is also an entire rustic lodge available to rent, with two bedrooms and a spacious kitchen and living room area for those who want a little extra room.

Donnelly:

Sitting near the base of Tamarack Resort, Donnelly is an excellent spot for a ski vacation or a summer trip to explore the surrounding mountains. While known for its world-class skiing, Tamarack Resort offers year-round outdoor activities, with summer activities including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. Donnelly itself is on the northern side of Lake Cascade, with stunning views, easy outdoor access, and even a local hot springs, Gold Fork Hotsprings. Donnelly is about a two hour drive from Boise.

Lodging options in Donnelly:

• Tamarack Resort - Offering a variety of upscale accommodations including a luxury lodge, full homes and cottages, and condos, Tamarack has lodging for every family or group. The resort also offers dining, outdoor pools and hot tubs, and a spa. 
• Boulder Creek Inn - This hotel features a convenient location, comfortable rooms, and a complimentary breakfast.

Garden Valley:

Photo credit to Southwest Idaho Travel Association

Tucked along the scenic Middle Fork of the Payette River, Garden Valley is a tranquil mountain escape that celebrates the natural beauty of Idaho. The quaint small town features a charming outdoor theater that puts on plays in the summer, and a few saloons and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a wide variety of activities like hiking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and exploring the nearby hot springs.

Lodging options in Garden Valley:

•  Walk on the Wildside B&B - This bed and breakfast combines the atmosphere of staying in a 1930s Idaho ranch house with the modern conveniences of the 21st century. Expect to see plenty of wildlife (even Elk bugling) and truly feel immersed in the peacefulness of country living.
• The Three Bears Inn - This small boutique-style Inn offers quaint lodging with a rustic vibe. They offer both hotel rooms and stand-alone cabins.