Just to the north of the lakeside vacation destination of McCall in west central Idaho, Brundage Mountain is a popular spot for freeride skiers and snowboarders. Guided snowcat excursions into 18,000 acres of backcountry terrain within Payette National Forest provide access to untracked bowls and powdery tree-lined glades. The resort’s six lifts service 70 designated trails where snowy conditions are common – the base area sees an average of 320 inches (813 centimeters) of annual snowfall, with steeper and deeper conditions as you ascend the mountain.
Although there is no accommodation at the base of the mountain, you can reside 15 minutes away in McCall at the Shore Lodge on Payette Lake. There are thermal waters to enjoy at the hotel, but it’s worthwhile to embark on a snowmobiling tour (the only means of access in winter) to arrive at Burgdorf Hot Springs, where warm water flows from springheads into rustic pools.
