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ForestMatters, LLC

Smith Lake Trail

Payette National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
5 mi
Elevation Gain
900 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
4 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • One of the most accessible lake hikes from McCall
  • Smith Lake with good summer swimming and fishing
  • Moderate grade suited to McCall visitors of various fitness levels
  • Ponderosa and mixed conifer forest throughout the approach
  • Popular with McCall resort visitors looking for a forest lake experience

Overview

Smith Lake is the most accessible lake trail destination from McCall in the Payette National Forest, a 5-mile round trip with 900 feet of gain that suits a broad range of visitors. Located southwest of McCall in Idaho, the trail is a reliable option for resort visitors, families with hiking experience, and locals seeking a quick forest lake escape from town.

The lake itself is a pleasant subalpine body of water that warms enough for swimming in July and August, distinguishing it from the colder high-elevation lakes that remain frigid even at peak summer. The combination of accessible distance, lake swimming, and good trail surface makes this one of the most visited day hikes from McCall.

The Route

Trailhead to Lake (0 to 2.5 miles)

The trail begins in ponderosa and mixed conifer forest southwest of McCall and climbs steadily on a well-maintained path. The grade is consistent and the trail surface is clear throughout. Views of the surrounding valley and Payette Lake appear from occasional openings.

Smith Lake (2.5 miles)

The lake occupies a natural basin with an accessible shoreline. Several flat spots around the lake accommodate picnics and rest. The lake is warm enough for swimming from mid-July through August. Return via the same route.

When to Hike

June through October is the accessible season. The trail clears snow by early June most years and is pleasant into late October.

July and August are peak season for swimming. Arrive early on summer weekends as parking fills.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry a liter of water for this short route. Swimwear for the lake adds value in summer. Sun protection on the open sections near the trailhead.

Trailhead Access

Smith Lake Trailhead is on Forest Road 354 southwest of McCall. The road is gravel and generally passable for standard vehicles. No fee or permit required (as of 2026). A vault restroom is present. Space for 10 to 12 vehicles.

Dogs are welcome and swimming with dogs in the lake is a highlight of the experience.

Nearby

Smith Lake complements other McCall-area options well. Loon Lake Trail is a more remote lake option to the east. Brundage Mountain Trail provides the McCall-area summit experience. Lake Fork Meadows Trail is a good mountain biking and hiking option from the same general area.

Check conditions before visiting using the USFS guide and follow Leave No Trace principles at the lake.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel lot at the Smith Lake Trailhead off Forest Road 354 southwest of McCall. Space for 10 to 12 vehicles.

← Back to Payette National Forest

More Trails in Payette National Forest

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Box Lake Trail

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A 10-mile out-and-back to a remote lake basin on the eastern boundary of the Payette National Forest adjacent to the Frank Church Wilderness, through dense conifer forest with excellent solitude.

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Brundage Mountain Trail

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A 5.8-mile out-and-back to the summit of Brundage Mountain above McCall, sharing terrain with a winter ski area and delivering panoramic views of Payette Lake and the surrounding peaks.

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Goose Lake Trail

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A 7.8-mile out-and-back to a high-elevation lake in the Seven Devils Mountains, offering a day-hike introduction to the volcanic peak terrain and Hells Canyon views above the Snake River.

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Lake Fork Meadows Trail

6.5 mi1,100 ft gain
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A 6.5-mile out-and-back from the McCall area through open mountain meadows to a scenic viewpoint above the Lake Fork drainage, popular with hikers and mountain bikers from the resort town.

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Loon Lake Trail

6.2 mi1,200 ft gain
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A 6.2-mile out-and-back from the McCall area to a remote backcountry lake with good fishing and solitude, accessible without entering the full Frank Church wilderness interior.

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Rapid River Trail

8 mi900 ft gain
April through November

An 8-mile out-and-back along the wild and scenic Rapid River through old-growth canyon forest with excellent steelhead habitat and a rare river-corridor hiking experience in the Payette National Forest.

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strenuousloop

Seven Devils Loop

27 mi7,200 ft gain
July through September

A 27-mile multi-day loop through the Seven Devils wilderness with dramatic volcanic peaks, Hells Canyon views, and multiple alpine lakes, the defining backpacking route of the Payette National Forest.

4 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Smith Lake Trail take?
The 5-mile round trip takes most hikers 2 to 3 hours at a comfortable pace. The moderate grade and good trail surface make this accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Is Smith Lake Trail dog friendly?
Yes, Smith Lake Trail is popular with dog owners from McCall. The lake swimming access is a highlight for dogs in summer. Keep dogs under control near the lake and on the approach trail.
Can you swim at Smith Lake?
Yes. Smith Lake is warm enough for swimming in July and August, making it one of the few lake destinations accessible by trail near McCall where swimming is comfortable in summer.