So you’re looking for the perfect place to get married and you’ve narrowed it down to the mountains. Just 90 minutes north of Boise, McCall is the perfect choice. Now what!? Love McCall, but not sure where to tie the knot?
I’ve got you!! As a local and a wedding photographer, I’ve put together a list of my favorite wedding venues, both simple and for the more adventurous.
Many couples are opting to elope instead of the traditional wedding. Either is a good choice!
The mountains are glorious any season, and each has different offerings. From the fresh scents of spring to the long clear days of summer, to the lovely colors of fall to thick snow in the winter, it is always a feast for the senses.
DATE
Choosing your wedding date is a big decision, and often hinges on which places are available and realistic.
GUEST COUNT
In addition to deciding what season, the number of guests is a big consideration. The maximum guest count at each venue is included in my list below, when applicable.
ACTIVITIES
Are you adventuresome and want to elope on the top of a mountain? That’s easily done and there are plenty to choose from! If this is your jam, I can guide you and have some tips below.
If you’re thinking the lake is calling and you’d like to tie the knot near the water, there are countless beautiful spots to consider. There are SO many tucked-away gems, which are lesser known, and as your photographer, I’d be happy to take you there!
Payette Lake Wedding - McCall, Idaho
Wishing for a more traditional mountain lodge-type wedding venue, there are several to choose from, some right in town and others further out in the backcountry. Ranches and historic barns abound around here. We even have clean and modern Scandinavian!! There are so many - in such breathtaking locations - it’s honestly tough to pick. Fortunately, it’s not a bad problem to have.
Here are 7 TYPES OF VENUES to consider when planning your outdoor wedding/elopement in McCall
Each type of wedding venue is then broken down into specific locations, with links to each location -
Lake / Beach / Waterfront
Mountains
River
Hot Springs
Historic Landmarks
Traditional
Clean + Modern
All have spectacular views and most enjoy easy access and parking as well and are set up to accommodate your celebration.
LAKE / BEACH / WATERFRONT
Ponderosa State Park - Easy to access and ample parking, this incredible 1000 acre park peninsula is surrounded by Payette Lake, and has everything to offer. From sandy beaches, forested lakeside trails, a meadow marsh to the top of Osprey overlook. There are covered picnic tables near the lake, along with camping and super sweet lakeside cabins for overnight guests.
Pilgrim Cove Camp - This 12-acre camp overlooks Payette lake, including beach access and dining setup. (up to 135 guests) Blog post from a recent wedding here soon to follow!
Shore Lodge - Historic elegance and accommodations, Shore Lodge is well known to anyone who’s been to McCall - famous or otherwise. It features an amazing spa and restaurant, right in the heart of town, with lake access and accommodations, plus catering. It falls uniquely in two venue categories - both waterfront + historic landmark. See this lovely wedding I photographed there not that long ago. Looking for some zen, serenity and the ultimate in relaxation? Take advantage of a spa, massage, and private hot springs at The Cove right at the lodge. I treated my husband to a Christmas gift this year to The Cove and take it from some first-hand experience, it is AMAZING!!
The Glass House - one of the newest venues in town, situated near the lake, this architectural gem is connected with Hotel McCall. Guests can both stay and enjoy smaller gatherings in this lakeside gem, a short walk to downtown.
Paradise Point Camp - Growing in popularity, this sweet camp fills up quickly!! There are several locations for your ceremony, with incredible lake views. The Outdoor Chapel of the Holy Spirit is just one, along with a lakeside campfire area, which boasts seating for 125. Host up to 250 along the private picturesque sandy beach. Evening receptions are delightfully spent on their large dining hall deck, under the brightest stary nights we know and love. Delicious meals are provided on-site by their fabulous catering services. Blog post from a recent wedding here soon to follow!
North Beach - Off the beaten path, but nonetheless amazing, this locale at the north end of Payette Lake has deep sandy beaches, river access and sometimes a moose spotting! Definitely more for the adventurous bride and groom!
Private homes - If you’re lucky enough to know someone who has a home right on the lake, then consider yourself lucky enough! Check out this wedding a private home right on the lake at Sylvan Beach, on the west side of Payette Lake.
MOUNTAINS
Bear Creek Lodge - 65 gorgoeus acres nestled in the mountains, with lawns, firepit, tents available, deck. The grand lodge offers plenty of parking and accommodations. (up to 250 guests)
Brundage Ski Resort - Take a chairlift to the top of the mountain, exchange vows overlooking Payette Lake and the Salmon River mountains. Such a unique spot to say “I do”! The grassy meadows below are great for the reception with guests.
Jug Mountain Ranch - This 1410 acre private community is located near famous rugged Jughandle Mtn. Gorgeous views with TipiTents. (up to 120 guests)
Tamarack Resort - Ride the chairlift, enjoy pectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Cascade lake and meadows. A variety of options include the mountaintop, the Chapel, lawns, and a grange. (up to 200 guests). View this amazing wedding I shot at Tamarack last summer. And view this sweet mountaintop vow renewal I shot at there.
Payette National Forest - With 2.3 million acres, the sky is the limit, literally. This area is for the truly adventurous at heart. Don’t expect your phone to work or someone to come to the rescue if you have car trouble. It’s one of my favorite locations and I could easily spend the rest of my life exploring this beautiful area. Check out this wonderful suprise winter proposal on snow shoes! For those considering eloping or a micro-wedding, definitely consider it!
Sixty Chapel - Just 1.5 hrs SE of McCall (and 1 hour from Boise) lies 47 acres of pure paradise. It boasts a fantastic wedding venue, complete with an amphitheater, front lawn pond, and a barn. The area combines rustic and modern to create a perfectly unique vibe for each couple who get married there.
Sweeping valley views with Jug Mountain in the background.
RIVERSIDE
Mackay Bar Ranch - Arrive by boat and stay the night in the Frank Church Wilderness along the River of No Return / aka The Salmon - a true backcountry adventure in one of the most incredible areas around. (up to 40 guests)
No Business Lodge - Set up on a ridge, with lawns, wildflowers, immense views overlooking the Payette River. Enjoy private use of their lodge, a gaming room, a bar, and firepits. Blog post from a recent wedding here soon to follow!
Riverside Pines - With 6 acres right outside Cascade, nestled in pine trees, right along the Payette River, this private residence has a lovely country home and a large barn to celebrate your wedding day. (up to 200 guests)
Kelly’s Whitewater Park - A local favorite to river enthusiasts, Kelly’s is situated RIGHT on the river. Folks can enjoy paddling, inner tubes, kayaking, rafting or paddle boarding on this wonderful spot with natural waves for beginners to advanced paddlers. River access is from the edges as well as primarily from the central island of rocks! Other fun activities here include a volleyball court, horsehoe pits, a bocce court and ample areas for picnics, which make weddings here especially fun! The modern welcome center with walls of glass has panoramic views of the Payette River, and works great for smaller weddings. Interior capacity for up to 70 guests.
Blackhawk on the River - Set in the mountains just 10 minutes from town, along the Payette River, near two fully stocked ponds. High-end luxurious lodge with stately homes nearby. Here’s a fun winter elopement I photographed nearby. (up to 350 guests)
River Ranch - Located in a subdivision, it offers 5 lakes and 80 acres of lovely views for weddings. There is a large ranch house with a gourmet kitchen for all catering needs. Wedding ceremonies take place on a lovely lawn adjacent to the shore of a small lake, complete with decks and tents (if needed), and stunning views of Jughandle mountain.
Salmon Rapids Lodge - In nearby Riggins and popular with the river rafting crowd (and open to anyone who’s smitten! ), there is a lawn area aptly named The Point - featuring spectacular views and overlooks the confluence of the two Salmon Rivers.
Riverview Cabins - Situated right on the Salmon River, this is a to die-for wedding venue!! Super close to Hells Canyon and the Snake River, these cabins have their own private sandy beach. There is a lovely grassy picnic area with great shade and solitude. Check out this wedding from last summer - one of my absolute favorites to date!! The bride took a dip in the river IN HER WEDDING DRESS!
HOT SPRINGS
Burgdorf Hot Springs - Quite possibly the most picturesque rustic resort ever complete with natural hot springs and cabins. Check out this amazing same-sex wedding I photographed here. Always a hit with the entire family and very unique!
HISTORIC LANDMARKS
Heartland Inn - A wonderful mansion including a carriage house and motel, located in New Meadows with sweeping views of the valley.
Hotel McCall - Right in the heart of McCall, set on the south border of Payette Lake, complete with a pool, spa, and a high-end restaurant. Foodies will be in heaven.
LODGES + BARNS
Roseberry Barn - This complete historic townsite is like stepping back in time, with an authentic old store and museum. The big red barn and picturesque church are available for celebrating your wedding day. Photos from the rustic and romantic barn wedding I shot at Roseberry are here.
Longhorn Guest Ranch - With 214 private acres of working ranch land and a guest lodge, this beautiful setting includes use of a deck overlooking the valley, a forest, pasture, and nearby lakes. (for up to 100 guests). Have you ever dreamed of photos in your wedding attire right with longhorn cattle by your side? Well, look no further! The owners are super accommodating and the setting couldn’t be more beautiful. Here is my blog post from a super fun wedding I photographed here.
Warm Lake Lodge - Pristine Warm Lake is the largest natural lake in the Boise National Forst and features abundant fish and wildlife. The lodge was established in 1911 and offers a restaurant and bar with several cabins, along with camping.
Ranch View Venue - Located in the New Meadows valley and surrounded by beautiful mountains, it offers an historic barn, bar and campground. (up to 150 guests). Here is a blog from a romantic wedding I shot here.
TRADITIONAL
Hotel Nobo - Located just south of town in nearby Cascade (and 75 miles from Boise), this venue boasts elegant interior spaces, including a pool and hot tub. A mere 1/2 mile away is gorgeous Lake Cascade, which offers unlimited opportunities for outdoor sports, along with stunning views for wedding photos.
CLEAN + MODERN
Scandia Inn - One of the best-kept secrets (and not-so-secret anymore!) is this clean and well-appointed local gem - complete with 17 beautiful Scandinavian-themed rooms. It offers a spacious yard, along with smokeless firepits. This mountain modern space is a superb canvas for those hoping for a bit more modern and sophisticated look. See my blog post from a gorgeous wedding I recently shot here.
Ultimately, choosing a wedding venue is a big decision and impacts the course of your day. Often it is the first part of the wedding planning puzzle that directs the course of your big day. Take time to do your research. There are plenty of people who’ve been in your shoes and are willing to share their knowledge. Wedding planners, florists, and photographers all have great insight. Reach out to them! If you book me as your photographer, I have a complete vendor list I’m happy to share with you. Local knowledge goes a long way! Contact me HERE.
Think of it as a fun project - and reach out to others. Clearly, central Idaho has plenty of wonderful options. By picking the time of year, the number of guests, the type of wedding venue and reading over this list, hopefully you are that much closer to making your final decision!