Sun Valley, Idaho, is famous for being the best town in Idaho for skiing, but it’s also a fantastic year-round destination. This charming spot, with fewer than 2,000 residents, offers peace and adventure throughout all four seasons. Whether you’re skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Sun Valley is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.
When to Visit Sun Valley for the Best Skiing
Sun Valley shines in the winter, especially from December to February when it gets up to 180 inches of snow annually.
This makes it the best town in Idaho for skiing. The colder months offer prime conditions for skiers and snowboarders. During the summer, from June to September, temperatures rise to the 70s and 80s, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and golfing.
Winter Fun in the Best Ski Town in Idaho
Hit the Slopes: Sun Valley’s ski resort spans two mountains, with terrains for all skill levels. Bald Mountain has challenging black diamond runs, like Inhibition, with a 70% grade. If you’re a beginner, there are easier, scenic runs. This range makes Sun Valley the best ski town in Idaho.
Go Heli-Skiing: For a unique adventure, try heli-skiing with Sun Valley Heli Ski. Explore untouched terrain and enjoy vertical drops that will challenge any skier.
Snowmobiling Adventures: If you want a different kind of snow adventure, rent a snowmobile from Smiley Creek Lodge. Ride through Idaho’s wilderness and discover hidden trails with a guide.
Ice Skating: Visit the year-round outdoor ice skating rink at Sun Valley Lodge. Enjoy watching professional skaters or take a spin on the ice yourself.
Summer Activities in Sun Valley, Idaho
Hiking and Mountain Biking: Sun Valley offers plenty of trails for hiking and biking. Popular spots like Fox Creek Trail provide stunning views of the mountains. Take the gondola up Bald Mountain for even more scenic trails.
Fly Fishing: Sun Valley is perfect for fly fishing. Set out on a guided trip along Silver Creek or the Big Wood River and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors.
Golfing: Sun Valley’s Trail Creek Golf Course offers 18 beautiful holes, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. If you prefer a shorter game, the nine-hole White Clouds course is ideal.
More: 5 Best Mountain Towns in the Southern U.S.
Where to Stay in Sun Valley
Sun Valley Resort – Known for its variety of accommodations, including lodges and cottages, and year-round recreational activities like skiing and golf.
Limelight Hotel Ketchum – A modern, stylish hotel in downtown Ketchum with top-tier amenities and easy access to local attractions.
How to Get to Sun Valley, Idaho’s Best Ski Town
The easiest way to reach Sun Valley is by flying into Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN), just 20 minutes from town. There are direct flights from cities like Los Angeles, Denver, and Seattle. If you’re driving, Sun Valley is about three hours east of Boise and five hours from Salt Lake City.
