This winter season marks the 50^th anniversary for Brundage Ski Resort, located eight miles from downtown McCall. Brundage Mountain opened on November 27, 1961 with two main runs “North” and “South” by founding fathers Warren Brown, Jack Simplot, and Cory Engen. The mountain has since become a famous family attraction and has grown tremendously over the years.

        In 2007, Brundage installed two new chairlifts and added 160 acres of terrain. There are now 46 named runs (and many other options) with countless breathtaking views of McCall, New Meadows, and the Payette Lakes. But Brundage isn’t just for seasoned skiers and snowboarders. Group and private lessons are offered for all ages and skill levels. The mountain’s accredited Ski & Snowboard School offers private lessons for ages three and up, group lessons for ages 12 and up, and the Bears Kids Program for children ages 4–11. Their new clinics and clubs, for ages 18 and up, are tailored for specific groups such as women, seniors, telemarkers, and aspiring racers. In addition, Brundage offers day care for the little ones not yet big enough to get in on the action. The state-certified day care center is available for children aged six weeks to eight years.

        Snow cat trips are offered on more than 19,000 acres in the backcountry of the Payette National Forest. April Russell, Communication Director at Brundage Mountain, says cat skiing is perfect for people who love to ski or snowboard on untouched powder. “This experience is similar to heli-skiing in the scope of the terrain,” says April. “However, the pricing we offer is extremely reasonable for the experience.”

        With all the dining options at Brundage, families can enjoy an entire day at the mountain without worrying about bringing food. Although sack lunches are allowed, the Main Lodge Cafeteria, Smoky’s Kitchen, The Bear’s Den, and Bird’s Nest offer everything from hamburgers to pulled pork to pizza. They also serve a variety of domestic and micro-brewed beer and have a full liquor bar.

        Although Brundage is known for its winter offerings, it has plenty to offer in the off-season as well. The mountain is open in the summer for scenic chairlift rides, lift-served mountain biking, river rafting, and weddings and events. Chairlift rides offer gorgeous views of the Payette Lakes, Long Valley, Meadow Valley, and the Seven Devils. There are over 20 miles of mountain biking trails for both beginners and thrill-seekers! Whitewater rafting excursions on the Salmon River are offered for a half day or several days, depending on your level of adventure. In addition, Brundage is open for weddings and other events, complete with catering options.

        With all that Brundage has to offer, it’s no wonder people have been enjoying the mountain for 50 years. History writer Eve Chandler is currently working on a book celebrating Brundage’s 50 years. The coffee table-style book, which will be available in 2012, will contain stories, photographs, and details of the development of the mountain area. If you would like to share your Brundage story with Eve, contact her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Janelle DiOrio is a freelance writer in Meridian who has just recently learned how to snowboard.