Sun Valley is nestled pleasantly in the Northern Rocky Mountains with an array of activities to please anyone. In the winter, the mountains are awe inspiring with surrounding towns holding onto the small ski town charm. I quickly found out why this is becoming a popular place to visit – although the locals will try and convince you not to stay. Below are my top 5 things to do in Sun Valley, Idaho in the winter.
Ski
An obvious first choice as Sun Valley is the #1 Ski Resort in the US with the WORLD’s first ever chair lift (!!). Bald Mountain is the main ski resort with Dollar Mountain being the smaller sister mountain. When I got my first glimpse of the mountains from the top, I was in utter shock. This is Idaho?! It’s beautiful.
Have lunch or dinner at the Roundhouse
Located mid mountain on Bald Mountain, I highly recommend stopping here. It is accessible by skis and also by the Gondola if you’re not on the mountain. It’s known for the fondue and views and neither disappoint. It’s a cozy white tablecloth lodge-esq spot that is a perfect place to cozy up. Want more restaurant reccos? Check out this post!
Cross Country Ski / Snowshoe
For a more mellow day on the snow, try cross country skiing or snow shoeing. There are a few Nordic Centers in the area that have groomed trails for all skill levels. We went to the Sun Valley Nordic Center that requires a trail pass for the day. They have a lodge (it’s actually the golf club in the summer)to warm up in afterwards with a drink or some food.
Take a Drive to Stanley, Idaho
Stanley, Idaho is located about 1 hour and 15min NW of Sun Valley. It’s a nice day trip driving through the valleys and peaks of the mountain range. It’s worth it for the view alone, but it’s worth it to see the town. Claiming a population of under 70 people, it’s small but mighty. There are a few restaurants and bars, a spa and when you drive to the top of the “downtown” area, there is a park with an ice skating rink. The valley in which it is set in is so pristine, unlike anything I’ve seen.
Located about 25min NW of Sun Valley, you can actually stop here on your way to Stanley! They offer lunch and also rent cross country skis and snowshoes. They have a bunch of groomed trails as well for all skill levels.
Eat in Ketchum
Ketchum is a small town 5 min from Sun Valley with a variety of restaurants and bars to chose from. Honestly, I was surprised by how much I loved the food scene there. If you’re looking for a more in depth recommendation on where to eat, check out this post!‘