Overview
Lake Fork Meadows Trail is the McCall-area workhorse hike of the Payette National Forest, a 6.5-mile round trip through open mountain meadows that is equally popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers from the resort town. The trail begins at the Lake Fork Recreation Area east of McCall in Idaho's Valley County, making it one of the most conveniently accessed hikes in the forest.
The meadow character of this trail distinguishes it from the denser forest walks that dominate the McCall backcountry. Open views, abundant wildflowers through mid-July, and consistent sight lines for wildlife make this a visually active hike even at a leisurely pace. Deer are commonly seen in the meadows and black bears occasionally cross the open terrain at dawn and dusk.
The Route
Lake Fork Trailhead to Lower Meadows (0 to 1.5 miles)
The trail begins in mixed conifer and transitions quickly to the first of the open meadow sections within the first mile. The Lake Fork Creek is visible below in the drainage. Wildflowers in June and early July fill the meadow floor with arrowleaf balsamroot, lupine, and Indian paintbrush.
Mid-Trail Meadows (1.5 to 3.0 miles)
The trail continues through a series of connected meadow benches with improving views of the surrounding Payette peaks. The grade is gentle in the meadow sections and steepens briefly on the forested climbs between them. Mountain bikers traverse this section efficiently on the maintained trail surface.
Viewpoint Turnaround (3.25 miles)
The trail reaches a natural viewpoint above the Lake Fork drainage with views toward the McCall backcountry and the peaks of the central Payette. The conventional day-hike turnaround is here. Return via the same route.
When to Hike
June through October covers the accessible season. The lower meadows are accessible from late May in dry years and the wildflower display peaks in late June through early July.
July and August bring the most traffic. Mountain bike use is highest in July when the trail surface is typically dry and fast.
September and October offer quiet conditions and fall color in the aspen stands along the drainage.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry a liter of water for this shorter outing. No water source is on the trail above the lower creek sections, so carry sufficient water. Sun protection matters in the open meadow sections, which have no shade.
Multi-use trail etiquette: hikers yield to horses, cyclists yield to hikers. The trail sees enough combined use that proactive yielding is important.
Trailhead Access
Lake Fork Recreation Area is east of McCall off Lake Fork Road, reached from Highway 55. The road is paved to the trailhead. No fee or permit required (as of 2026). Flush restrooms present at the recreation area. Parking for 25 vehicles.
Dogs are welcome and the open terrain makes supervision easy.
Nearby
Lake Fork Meadows is the most easily accessed trail from McCall. Smith Lake Trail provides the lake option from the same general area. Brundage Mountain Trail is the summit option above McCall. Loon Lake Trail provides the more remote backcountry lake experience for those ready to venture farther.
Check current trail conditions before visiting using the USFS guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles in the meadow sections where social trails form easily in the soft soil.