Payette Lake
Payette Lake is a clear, glacier-fed mountain lake in central Idaho, renowned for year-round recreation, scenic shoreline parks, and as the engine of McCall’s economy.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific Northwest |
| Subregion | Northwestern United States |
| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho |
| County | Valley County |
| District | Payette National Forest |
| City | McCall |
| Postal Code | 83638 |
| Timezone | AmericaBoise |
| Latitude | 44.9138 |
| Longitude | -116.1163 |
| Maps |
7:14 PM LOCAL TIMEPayette Lake is a high-altitude, glacier-fed basin sitting around 1,480 meters (4,850 feet) above sea level near McCall, Idaho. Known for its crystalline waters, dramatic alpine backdrop, and gentle shoreline, the lake anchors a popular year-round resort community. In summer, it’s a hub for boating, swimming, *fishing for Salvelinus fontinalis and Coregonus clupeaformis*, and stand-up paddleboarding; in winter, the surrounding hills light up with cross-country skiing, snowmobiling**, and nearby downhill resorts. Shoreline parks and public boat ramps provide easy access to the water, while lakeside lodging, dining, and rental cabins make it simple to settle in for a few days. The region also acts as a base for enzymatic trout fishing, hiking trails that radiate up to the Payette National Forest, and seasonal events that showcase local culture and outdoor skill.
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