In this monthly series, we check in with one of our adventurous locals to find out how they would spend a perfect 24 hours in Sun Valley. Say hello to long(er) sunny days! March in Sun Valley nudges at the first hints of winter bending toward spring, and the promise of summer just around the corner. Still, it wouldn’t do to wish away this glorious month, when Baldy’s bowls turn into perfect corn conditions and the backcountry skiing and Nordic trails are on point. For this 24hrs in Sun Valley March edition, we caught up with Courtney Gilbert, Curator of Visual Arts at the Sun Valley Museum of Art (SVMoA). SVMoA, formerly called the Sun Valley Center for the Arts, is dedicated to enriching the community through transformative arts and education experiences. In her role, Courtney organizes multi-artist, thematic exhibitions that usually relate to SVMoA’s BIG IDEA projects, which “ask timely questions and investigate them through art, music, theatre, conversation, and workshops.” The latest exhibition, on display at the SVMoA (191 Fifth Street East, Ketchum) through April 16, 2021, is titled “Deeds Not Words: Women Working for Change.” This multidisciplinary curation coincides with the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the US …
5 Ways to Avoid the Crowds in Sun Valley this Summer
Have the trails seemed busier? Are you looking to get away from the crowds? Maybe you want to spice things up and explore new territory. While hiking, mountain biking, and camping are all extremely popular activities we have some less trafficked destinations that are hiding right under your nose as well as some other activities to check out. We’ve compiled 5 ways to avoid the crowds in Sun Valley. Your perfect Idaho summer vacation starts here. Hike Dollar Mountain This winter center piece is often forgotten during the summer months and is great if you don’t like traffic on the trails. It’s central location in the valley offers up some great views as well as a different perspective on the area especially during sunset. From the parking lot at the base, head up a gravel road that crosses under Half-Dollar lift. After a bit this road will stop climbing and you can either climb up the more aggressive Dragon’s Back ridge or a more mellow route traversing east towards and up Sepp’s Bowl. There are trails crisscrossing all over Dollar which creates the possibility to hike a different route each time. Disc-Golf Out Warm Springs Arguably the rowdiest of disc …
Summer Fun for Kids in Sun Valley, Idaho
It’s the first morning of your Sun Valley vacation and the kids are ready for an adventure. Don’t panic; you’re in the land the family fun. Here are some of the best experiences for kids this summer in Sun Valley.
24hrs with a Local: Mike McKenna, July
In this monthly series, we check in with one of our adventurous locals to find out how they would spend a perfect 24 hours in Sun Valley. And just like that, summer is here! From north to south throughout the Valley, visitors and locals are getting out to enjoy the area’s uncrowded trails, tasty dining, and cultural activities. It seems that everyone is determined to make the most of our socially distanced summer, and we invite you to join us in experiencing everything the season has to offer. For this July edition of 24Hrs Sun Valley, we caught up with Mike McKenna, the Executive Director of The Chamber of Hailey & the Wood River Valley. Mike is an award-winning journalist and author, passionate fly fisherman, and youth sports coach. He explores the Wood River Valley with his wife Brooke and his two sons, Jack and Sam. What does Mike’s perfect July day look like? Hint: it involves more than one round of fly fishing! Read on to learn more about Mike’s favorite spots in the Valley. What’s for breakfast on your perfect July day? I’d order a Bowl of Soul and “The Usual” (a toasted bagel with cream cheese, tomato, and …
Sun Valley Lodging Deals & Packages
We’re exciting to welcome visitors back to our beloved Valley. Hotels have been open since Memorial Weekend and operations are running smoothly and safely. In an effort to invite you to visit this summer, the local lodging properties are offering some enticing Sun Valley lodging deals and packages, especially for Idaho residents. Below, you’ll find a collection of offers, and information on how to book. We recommend booking directly with these properties in order to successfully redeem the promotions. Sun Valley Resort The Staycation Calling all Idaho Residents! Looking for a great getaway without leaving Idaho? Look no further than Sun Valley Resort. Unwind and relax in the beautiful wide-open Valley. Or get moving, rent a Mountain Bike from Pete Lane’s or enjoy a picnic lunch on a hike in the Sawtooth Mountains. $50 resort credit each night of your stay No minimum night stay Valid 6/1 – 7/31 Must show valid Idaho driver’s license to book. Booking Information: https://www.sunvalley.com/deals The Early Birdie Be the Early Birdie to Stay & Save at Sun Valley Resort! Stay at Sun Valley Resort and get (1) round of golf for $22 for each night of your stay. Get one round of golf …
What We’re Made Of: Pro Athlete Extraordinaire – Rebecca Rusch
The Sun Valley area has always been known for its athletes from Olympic skiers to world-renowned rock climbers. Rebecca Rusch, originally from Chicago, has called Sun Valley her home and training grounds for the last 15 years. The ultra endurance pro athlete and world champion’s career has included numerous adventure sports including rock climbing, expedition racing, whitewater rafting, cross-country skiing and most recently, mountain biking. Though other towns may have better gyms or access to elite training facilities, Rusch chooses to call Sun Valley home. “It’s the people and the place that initially attracted me to Sun Valley and that keeps me here,” Rusch said. “I travel all over the world and I still always want to come back here; it feels like home. I appreciate that it’s off the beaten path, it keeps it special.” A story similar to many who put down roots in Sun Valley, Rusch was a self-described “outdoor sports nomad” in her mid-30s, looking for a place to call home while living out of her car. One of her adventure racing teammates, Patrick Harper, was born and raised in Ketchum (his dad, Butch Harper worked for the Forest Service for 30 years; Harper’s Trail is …
Unique Winter Experiences in Sun Valley
It’s so easy to fall in love with Sun Valley in the winter. The stoke starts to build right before the opening day of Bald Mountain in November, and lasts right through the final chair ride in the spring. While it’s tempting to think of ski town life as one endless loop of ski runs, followed by après drinks, and back to the ski runs with brief stops for sleep and food, locals know that even in the winter it’s good to mix up the routine. Whether you’re in town for a month or weekend, check out these unique winter experiences that showcase some of the magic of a Sun Valley winter. Test Your Aim with Get Your Shoot On Idaho Firearm sports may seem like a far cry from the ski slopes, but here in Sun Valley, they are closer than you think. For a memorable experience book a shoot with Jeff Kreyssig, owner of Get Your Shoot On Idaho. Jeff is a National Rifle Association certified instructor and range safety officer who offers shooting packages for individuals, families, and groups at the Hurtig Shooting Center in Hailey. Whether you’re interested in firing a cowboy-action Colt Cattleman or an AK-47, Jeff’s thoughtful instruction, …
2019/2020 BCRD Nordic Ski Passes on Sale Now
Blaine County Recreation District Nordic trail system 2019/2020 season passes go on sale Monday, October 7. Season passes are $215 for adults during the pre-season sale. Skiers save $50 by purchasing passes online by Sunday, November 24 ($265 after Nov. 24). Children 17 and under ski and snowshoe free with passes ordered online. A season pass for dogs to use approved Nordic trails is $49. Snowshoe only season passes are available for $65. A BCRD/Sun Valley Combo Nordic season pass is also available on the BCRD website for a discounted price during the pre-season sale. Once again, Mountain Rides will offer the “Ride ‘n Glide” bus route from Ketchum to North Valley Trails and Galena Lodge, which allows skiers public transportation to multiple points north of Ketchum. Visit bcrd.org to see the bus schedule and to purchase a “Ride n’ Glide” season pass for only $19. The 160-kilometer BCRD Nordic trail system is one of the largest in the United States and offers a grooming season that typically operates from Thanksgiving to mid-April. BCRD has also expanded offerings in the Quigley Trails system, providing the community with over 14 kilometers of groomed terrain in the south valley. No tax dollars …
Nordic Skiing
It’s not tacky, dated sweater fashion that’s being celebrated when Sun Valley is hailed as “Nordic Town USA.” This is some of the best and definitely most immaculately groomed Nordic ski terrain in the US.
Hiking
These famous words are painted on the roof of the beloved Pioneer Cabin hike. They’re a refreshing reminder of the euphoric experiences that hiking can induce.
