As America’s first destination ski resort, it’s not surprising that skiing and snowboarding remain some of the most popular activities in Sun Valley. However, this laid-back town, surrounded by mountains in central Idaho, offers outdoor activities for all four seasons. Recharge in the outdoors and then refuel with excellent dining options, before exploring Sun Valley’s rich arts, culture, and music scene. You might just spot a celebrity or two during your visit: This surprisingly unpretentious town boasts many members of Hollywood royalty among its part-time residents.
When to visit Sun Valley depends on your interest. For winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, visit between December and February, when Sun Valley typically receives the most snow. For hiking, biking, fly fishing, rafting, and golf, visit in the summer—or opt for a visit between late September and late October to take in peak fall foliage. For festival fun, choose late February and early March to catch the Sun Valley Film Festival and October for all things sheepherding at the Trailing of the Sheep Festival.
The village of Sun Valley is compact and easily walkable, as is the nearby town of Ketchum. You can take the free Mountain Rides bus system from the village to Dollar Mountain, the Warm Springs and River Runs areas of Bald Mountain, and Ketchum. There’s also a Valley Bus system connecting Sun Valley, Ketchum, Hailey, and Bellevue. In the summer, you can use a bike share program throughout the valley. Taxis and rideshares are available year-round.
Sun Valley may have a reputation as being an expensive place to visit, but there are ways to have fun and not break the bank. Winter sports enthusiasts can pick up passes like Mountain Collective and Ikon that offer discounted access to the mountain. There are also free attractions and events, including the Sun Valley Museum of Art, Wood River Museum, and Sawtooth Botanical Garden. Over the summer, the Sun Valley Music Festival offers free performances, and the Community Library hosts numerous free lectures and discussions.