Getting Around Sun Valley. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Winter Sports & Recreation

Winter transforms Sun Valley into a premier ski and snowboard destination. Bald Mountain offers extensive terrain for all skill levels, from gentle groomers to challenging expert runs. Dollar Mountain, a smaller, sun-drenched hill, serves beginners and families well.

Beyond downhill skiing, Sun Valley is a vast network of groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing paths, and opportunities for sleigh rides. The outdoor ice rink at the Sun Valley Lodge operates year-round, giving an unique skating experience under the open sky.

On-Mountain Highlights

Bald Mountain: Extensive terrain for diverse ski/snowboard abilities.
Dollar Mountain: Ideal for beginners and families seeking sunny slopes.
Cross-Country Skiing: A vast network of groomed trails for Nordic enthusiasts.
Snowshoeing Paths: Tranquil exploration of snowy landscapes.

Sleigh Rides

A classic winter experience, often featuring dinner at remote cabins like Trail Creek Cabin.

Outdoor Ice Skating

The Sun Valley Lodge's iconic ice rink welcomes skaters year-round, under the open sky.

Winter Events

The winter season is packed with festivals, races, and holiday celebrations, adding vibrancy to your visit.

Skiing & Snowboarding Tips

Getting Started

Bald Mountain: Offers an impressive vertical drop, with runs suited for intermediate to advanced skiers.
Lift-served access: The gondola and various chairlifts move skiers across the mountain efficiently.
Ski Lessons: Sun Valley Ski School offers lessons for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Enhancing Your Day

Après-Ski: Enjoy lively après-ski scenes at base lodges or in Ketchum.
On-Mountain Dining: Numerous lodges and restaurants provide meals and warm-up spots on the slopes.
Photography: Capture the stunning mountain views and exhilarating runs.

Winter Activity Overview

Snowboarding

Excellent parks and diverse terrain.

Nordic Skiing

Over 40 km of groomed trails.

Heliskiing

Unparalleled backcountry access.

Fat Biking

Explore groomed snow trails.

Summer Adventures & Recreation

As the snow melts, Sun Valley transitions into a summer paradise. The mountains transform into a playground for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. Lift-served access on Bald Mountain allows riders to enjoy downhill biking or scenic gondola rides.

Outdoor Pursuits

Hiking: Extensive trail systems for all fitness levels.
Mountain Biking: Lift-served downhill trails and cross-country routes.
Fly Fishing: The Big Wood River and nearby Silver Creek offer world-class fly fishing.
Golf: Two championship 18-hole courses at Sun Valley Resort with stunning mountain backdrops.

Resort & Leisure Activities

Horseback Riding: Scenic rides through the valley and mountain trails.
Tennis & Pickleball: Courts available at the resort and elsewhere.
Swimming: Resort pools and nearby lakes for cooling off.
Sun Valley Summer Symphony: Free outdoor concerts typically in July and August.

Summer Activity Highlights

Trail Running: Miles of diverse trails for all abilities.
Camping: Numerous campsites in the surrounding national forests.
Water Sports: Paddleboarding and kayaking on local lakes.

Art Workshops: Opportunities for creative engagement.
Botanical Gardens: Explore local flora at various spots.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies offer excellent night sky views.

Cultural & Community Engagement

Art Galleries

Explore Ketchum's numerous art galleries featuring local and regional artists.

Sun Valley Museum of Art

Hosts rotating exhibitions, lectures, and performances.

The Community Library

A hub for literary events, author talks, and public programs in Ketchum.

Annual Events & Festivals

Sun Valley's calendar is full of events that celebrate its community, arts, and outdoor lifestyle. Check local listings for exact dates and details.

Winter Celebrations

New Year's Eve Celebration: Fireworks and festivities on Bald Mountain.
Sun Valley Nordic Festival: Cross-country ski races and clinics.
Winter Sports Competitions: Various ski and snowboard races and freestyle events.
Torchlight Parade: A festive annual tradition during the holidays.

Summer Festivals

Sun Valley Jazz & Music Festival: A multi-day event featuring jazz performances across the valley.
Sun Valley Film Festival: showing independent films and industry talks.
Ketchum Farmers Market: Fresh local produce and artisan goods through summer and fall.
Trailing of the Sheep Festival: A unique cultural event celebrating local Basque heritage.

Year-Round Community Experiences

Dining Scene

From casual cafes to fine dining, Ketchum and Sun Valley offer diverse culinary experiences.

Local favorites and gourmet options.

Shopping

Boutiques, gear shops, and galleries in Ketchum and Sun Valley Village.

Unique souvenirs and outdoor apparel.

Wellness & Spa

Spas at the Sun Valley Lodge and other locations offer relaxation and treatments.

Rejuvenation after active days.

Ernest Hemingway's Legacy

Literary Connection

Ernest Hemingway found inspiration in Sun Valley and made it his home in his later years.
His presence added a literary layer to the region's history and cultural cachet.
Visit his grave in the Ketchum Cemetery for a quiet moment of reflection.

Cultural Impact

The region's rugged beauty and tranquil atmosphere provided a backdrop for his writing.
His connection to Sun Valley draws literary enthusiasts and history buffs.
His legacy is woven into the fabric of Sun Valley's identity.

Important Local Advisories

Wildfires: Late summer and early fall may see smoke; check local air quality advisories.
Altitude: Acclimatize slowly; hydrate to counter the effects of higher elevation.
Backcountry Safety: Avalanches are a risk in winter beyond resort boundaries; specialized training and gear are needed.
Wildlife: Stay alert on trails and roads, especially at dawn/dusk; never approach or feed animals.

Weather Changes: Mountain weather may change rapidly; pack layers for all seasons.
Road Conditions: Check 511.idaho.gov for winter road closures, especially Galena Summit.
Winter Driving: 4WD/AWD with snow tires are highly recommended for winter conditions.
Health Precautions: Consult your doctor about routine vaccinations. Carry prescription medications with documentation.

Resort Facilities & Local Amenities

The Sun Valley Lodge and Sun Valley Inn serve as the anchors of the resort, holding luxurious accommodations, spas, dining, and a range of amenities.

Sun Valley Village

Includes shops, art galleries, and a movie theater.
Additional dining options.
Home to the year-round outdoor ice rink.
Connected by the free local bus system.

Ketchum & Hailey

Ketchum: A short, free bus ride away, offering a diverse and lively downtown.
Wider selection of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and art galleries.
Hailey: Further south, with a more local feel and additional budget-friendly accommodation choices.
Opportunities for more economical options compared to resort properties.

Transportation Tips

Mountain Rides Bus

The public bus system is free for all riders. It links Sun Valley Village, Ketchum, Hailey, and the ski lifts.

Check the app/website for real-time tracking.
Wheelchair accessible.
Bike racks on buses.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Uber and Lyft operate, but driver availability may be limited. Taxis are available via phone calls.

Book in advance for better availability.
Confirm vehicle and driver details.
Fares may be higher during peak times.

Walking & Cycling

Ketchum and Sun Valley Village are pedestrian-friendly. Extensive multi-use paths connect the valley.

Rent bikes locally.
Helmets are highly recommended.
Observe trail etiquette.

General Safety Reminders

Outdoor Activity Safety

Stay on marked trails; inform someone of your plans for backcountry excursions.
Dress in layers for changing mountain weather; bring water and snacks.
Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries.

General Security

Secure your valuables; avoid leaving items visible in parked cars.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially if walking alone at night in less lit areas.
Keep copies of important documents separate from originals.

Final Tip for a Memorable Trip

Engage with the local community. Visit the community library for events, explore local art galleries, and try the diverse dining options in Ketchum.

Sun Valley blends natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities for a truly memorable travel experience.

Getting Around Sun Valley