Things To Do
in Sun Valley
Sun Valley, Idaho, is a premier year-round mountain resort known for its pristine powder, scenic landscapes, and upscale amenities. Founded as America's first purpose-built ski resort, it blends world-class winter sports with a refined, outdoor lifestyle. The surrounding Sawtooth and Whitecloud mountains offer dramatic vistas, hiking, biking, and thermal springs.
With a charming base in Ketchum and a cozy, lodge-centric atmosphere, Sun Valley attracts celebrities, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and organic coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic Sun Valley Village, admiring the charming architecture and iconic wood buildings. Visit the Sun Valley Museum of History to learn about the area’s rich heritage and its role in the development of winter sports.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, venture to the nearby Sun Valley Ice Rink where you can enjoy watching or even participating in some ice skating. Explore the surrounding shops and boutiques, picking up unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts. As the afternoon sun sets, take a scenic walk around the picturesque lakes in the village.
For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of Sun Valley’s renowned restaurants, featuring locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, head to a local bar or music venue for live entertainment, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Wind down your day with a relaxing evening under the stars, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine by a fire pit.
Gear up for an exciting hiking adventure by enjoying a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café. Set off to the Bald Mountain trailhead, where stunning views await you at every turn. As you hike, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes and listen to the sounds of local wildlife.
Reach the summit and take a moment to enjoy a packed lunch with breathtaking views of the Sun Valley area and beyond. After lunch, descend along a different trail to explore more of the area's flora and fauna. Make stops along the way to capture photographs and appreciate the tranquility of the mountains.
After returning to your lodge, unwind with a soak in a hot tub or enjoy some downtime by the fireplace. For dinner, visit a local steakhouse known for its juicy cuts and rustic ambiance. Cap off the day with a night stroll through the quiet mountain village, soaking in the crisp, fresh air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $4-8 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night hotel room | $150-350 |
| 🛍Groceries for a week | $60-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class skiing and mountain scenery
- Relaxed, upscale resort vibe and family-friendly amenities
- Can be crowded and pricey during peak seasons
- Limited nightlife compared with major cities
Places to Visit in Sun Valley
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the Sawtooth range and valley from the mountain ridge.
Golden-hour shots with Bald Mountain silhouette and charming street scenes.
Dramatic canyon walls and aspen groves along Trail Creek for dramatic landscape shots.
Iconic lodge architecture and reflecting ponds framed by evergreen trees.
Food in Sun Valley
Sun Valley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Idaho staple often found on menus in casual eateries around Ketchum and Sun Valley.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout prepared with almonds or light butter sauces at riverside restaurants.
Pies, pancakes, and ice creams featuring Idaho's iconic huckleberries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with produce, meats, breads, and prepared foods; sample local bites when open.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect property, keep noise reasonable at trails and lodges, especially in quiet neighborhoods.
Pack out trash, stay on trails, and avoid feeding wildlife.
Dress in layers for variable mountain weather and be mindful of seasonal closures.
Safety
Tipping in Sun Valley
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; lean on 18-20% for good service; tip hotel staff and guides accordingly.
Credit cards widely accepted; carry some cash for small shops and tips; many places accept contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; expect afternoon thunderstorms and excellent hiking conditions.
Heavy snowfall and crisp temperatures; ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Meltwater and variable weather; shoulder season for crowds but great for hiking and wildlife watching.
Aspen leaves turn gold; cool mornings and pleasant days, perfect for outdoor pursuits.
Sun Valley at Night
Hiking in Sun Valley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular loop in Adams Gulch area with aspen groves and streams.
Scenic canyon hike with river views, easy to moderate.
Diverse trails east of Sun Valley offering alpine scenery and lake views.
Airports
How to reach Sun Valley by plane.
Hailey-based airport 15-20 minutes from Sun Valley, serving regional flights and charters.
Major international/ domestic hub about 2 hours away by car; offers extensive flight options.
Larger international hub about 4-5 hours away by drive or 1.5-hour flight to nearby airports; frequent connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many seasonal residents with kids enjoy family-friendly trails and resorts.
A large number of staff support the resort economy in winter and summer.
Longer stays for those seeking a quieter mountain lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sun Valley is renowned for its light, fluffy snow and well-maintained runs.
Several high-quality courses in a mountain setting.
Excellent streams and rivers for angling near the valley.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sun Valley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetarian options; ask chefs to adapt dishes and look for salads, veggie pastas, and grain bowls.