Sun Valley Idaho
Sun Valley Idaho is named for it’s 205 sunny days a year. This outdoor mecca encompasses the greater Wood River Valley which includes the cities of Ketchum, Hailey and Bellevue. In addition to the ski resort and outdoor adventures it is known for, Sun Valley is also famous as a seasonal home to the rich and famous.
In winter, Sun Valley offers endless alpine adventures, with the renowned Sun Valley Ski Resort, 120 miles of groomed Nordic runs, and limitless backcountry terrain in the nearby Sawtooth National Forest for snowshoeing, skiing, or fat biking.
Sun Valley Ski Resort
The Sun Valley Ski Resort was established over 90 years ago, and is the oldest ski resort in the United States. The ski traditions are strong here, and Ski Magazine recently nominated Sun Valley #1 Ski Resort. It’s off-the-beaten-path location means it may be overlooked by some, but it would be a mistake to miss out on its fresh powder turns, stunning mountain views, uncrowded lifts and runs, and chill village vibe.
The resort has terrain for all levels of skiers and riders spread across two different mountains. Dollar Mountain is one of the best places in the country for beginners to learn, and Bald Mountain’s 3400-ft vertical drop and steep descents are popular with more advanced enthusiasts. The resort is also known for some of the highest lift capacities in the country, which means less time on lifts and in line, and more runs.
SUN VALLEY RESORT MOUNTAIN STATS
Click here for the interactive Sun Valley trail map.
| Base Elevation: | 5,750 ft |
| Summit Elevation: | 9,150 ft |
| Total Acres of Skiable Terrain: | 2,154 |
| Vertical Rise: | 3,400 ft |
| Number of Trails: | 121 |
| Annual Snowfall: | 220 inches |
| Longest Run: | 3 miles |
| Lifts: | 18 |
| Easiest: | 36% |
| Intermediate: | 42% |
| Advanced: | 20% |
| Expert: | 2% |
GETTING TO SUN VALLEY
You can easily reach Sun Valley by flying to Friedman Memorial Airport in Hailey. In the winter, there are daily nonstop flights from hubs like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, and Chicago. From there, it is a 12 mile drive to Sun Valley. Rent a car for the short drive, or take a shuttle with Sun Valley Shuttle company. Ketchum is a compact, walkable town so a rental car is not always necessary.
Another option is to drive from Boise (2.5 hr), Twin Falls (1.5 hr), or Idaho Falls (2.5 hr), complete with gorgeous views along the way that will make the drive fly by.
Best Time to Visit Sun Valley
The best time to visit Sun Valley ski resort is December through February for the best snow conditions. Apart from being a world class winter ski destination, Ketchum is the gateway to a plethora of summer adventures like biking, hiking and rafting in the surrounding Sawtooth mountains. June through September is the perfect time to visit for a Ketchum and Sun Valley summer adventure.
Sun Valley Ski Rentals
Sun Valley has several great ski shops for gear rental, including Black Tie Ski Delivery. Get 10% off when you book with Black Tie on TripOutside! TripOutside also allows you to compare rental prices at local shops and book online.
Sun Valley Skiing & Snowboarding FAQs
How can I save money on Sun Valley ski/snowboard rentals?
Time is money, especially when you’re on vacation. Sun Valley Black Tie Skis offers the highest quality skis in the industry and delivers your gear right to your condo, hotel or home. They’ll even meet you slopeside for any adjustments or tuning. Book through TripOutside to receive an exclusive 10% discount on ski rental delivery.
Renting online in advance can save you money. Many outfitters offer online reservation rates that are better than walk-in rates. This helps the shops manage their inventory and plan in advance. It also guarantees the availability of equipment.
What are the differences between ski/snowboard packages?
Demo:
Demo (or premium) packages are for the advanced skier that wants a specific ski or snowboard rental to match their specific riding style or matching the skis to the terrain. These are high-end, high-performance skis and snowboards.
Performance:
Performance packages are intended for intermediate to beginner levels, typically for groomed terrain and generally have a stiffer, more specialized flex pattern, and may be wider in the waist.
Sport:
Sport packages are primarily for groomed runs and intended for more beginner level skiers or snowboarders.
**All packages include downhill skis or snowboard, bindings, boots and poles (ski).
