This Small Town in Idaho Is Known for Skiing but It's Worth Visiting Year-Round

Sun Valley, Idaho is an all-seasons dream.

Sun Valley is a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively. It’s a place where visitors can leave their worries behind, trading in time on their computers for time with nature instead. It’s an all-seasons destination where every kind of outdoor enthusiast can certainly find their slice of paradise, from skiing to golfing, hiking to fishing, and so much more. However, a trip to this small town (home to fewer than 2,000 full-time residents) does require a bit of planning. Here’s how to plan the perfect trip to Sun Valley.

Related: 16 of the Best Small Towns in America

When to Go to Sun Valley

There’s no “bad” time to visit Sun Valley. However, there may be times that are more optimal for your interests. For example, if it’s skiing or winter activities you’re after, head to Sun Valley between December and February, when the town receives its best snow (it averages about 179 inches of snow a year). For warmth, make your way to Sun Valley from June to early September, when you can expect temperatures at least in the 70s, with average temperatures topping out at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t sleep on its fall shoulder season though, when the foliage hits its peak between late September and late October.

Things to Do in Winter

Hit the slopes.

The Sun Valley ski resort is hands down one of the best in the country, offering a variety of terrain ideal for all skill levels. However, it is an absolute gem for those with experience who want to test their limits on runs like Inhibition, which comes with a healthy 70 percent grade. Those looking to meander can also take a three-mile run that starts at the very top of the mountain.

Go off-piste.

Want to get away from the crowds? Book a day with Sun Valley Heli Ski, who will happily take you on a full-day excursion that includes six runs through Idaho's snowy backcountry. Each run typically ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 vertical feet. Heli-skiing isn't the most affordable option for most skiers, so you could also consider getting to the untouched snowy slopes with a certified guide to lead the way with a tour company like Sawtooth Mountain Guides.

Hop on a snowmobile.

Those looking to adventure in the snow without having to hop in a heli can indulge instead on a snowmobile rental from Smiley Creek Lodge. Guests can choose to ride solo or take a double snowmobile through some of Idaho’s most pristine wilderness. You'll also have the option to explore on your own or book a guide who can show you a few secret powder stashes and off-trail gems.

Skate.

The Sun Valley Outdoor Ice Rink is the place to go for a few laps around the ice or to watch the pros spin away from the sidelines. Located at Sun Valley Resort, the rink is famous for its ice shows and its figure skating school. There is also an indoor rink that's open year-round, so you can get a session in even when there's no snow on the ground.

Things to Do in Summer

Hit the links.

Sun Valley offers 18 stunning holes at its Trail Creek Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Those looking to play halfway can visit the nine-hole White Clouds course. Here, you'll also find a driving range and chipping green.

Explore the trails.

There are plenty of excellent trails around Sun Valley to hike on your own. Some of the most popular include romps through the Sawtooth National Forest on scenic hikes like the Fox Creek Trail, a challenging five-mile loop. You can also explore the summer trails at the Sun Valley Resort and take advantage of the ski lifts to get to some of the trailheads much faster. Whether it's your goal to take on a 10K trail run or just enjoy the crisp air and natural views, you can find a trail to your liking here.

Cast a line.

Find a little more tranquility (and perhaps catch your dinner) with a day out on the river on a fly fishing excursion with guides from Silver Creek. Visitors can set off on a guided fly-fishing tour during half or full-day trips, which typically take place on the Big Wood River and Upper Lost River.

Sun Valley Hotels

Sun Valley Lodge

Offering over 100 rooms, suites, and condo-style apartments, Sun Valley Lodge is ideal for every kind of traveler, from solo escapists to family adventurers. Its location is the most convenient for staying close to town and the lifts, but the best part might be direct access to the year-round ice skating rink. There is also a massive spa, a heated outdoor pool, and a high-end fitness center.

Sun Valley Inn

As a part of the Sun Valley Resort, the Sun Valley Inn is a historic property that originally opened its doors in 1937. Since then, it has undergone a significant upgrade to its rooms and restaurants and now provides all the modern amenities to travelers with a classical European twist to its decor. Located in the Village Station, the inn puts you within easy walking distance to eat at the restaurants or catch the shuttle to the mountain.

The Limelight Hotel Ketchum

The Limelight in Ketchum is just a quick five-minute drive from the ski resort, making it an ideal choice for visitors who prefer an alternative to the après-ski scene. It's a large hotel with accommodation options that range from basic rooms to full residences. It also has a gorgeous lobby with a fireplace, so visitors can get to know one another while cozying up after a day on the mountain.

How to Get to Sun Valley

The easiest way to get to Sun Valley is by flying into the Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN). From there, it’s just a short 20-minute drive to town. Travelers can find direct flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, and Salt Lake City. If you're coming from the state capital of Boise, it's approximately a three-hour drive east along major highways. You could also drive from Salt Lake City, which offers a chance to stop at Craters of the Moon, but this will add two hours of driving to your trip.

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