Sun Valley Travel Guide

The holiday destination of Sun Valley opened in 1936 as the first purpose-built ski destination in America. Modelled after the renowned ski resorts of Europe, it was quickly christened the 'American Shangri-La' and has been a favourite of Hollywood stars and the glamorous ever since. In spite of its elite status, Sun Valley has a laid-back atmosphere. In keeping with the spirit of Idaho, the focus is on the pristine beauty of the environment and the feats accomplished by athletes and outdoorsmen.

Sun Valley is built around Bald Mountain, which is known affectionately as 'Baldy' and considered by many to be the single best ski mountain in the country. The old stomping ground of Olympians Picabo Street and Reggie Crist is 3,400 vertical feet (1,036m) high and boasts 14 lifts and 65 runs on 2,054 skiable acres. The widely varying terrain of 'Baldy' and neighbouring Dollar Mountain means skiers of all levels can hit the slopes. The ski and snowboard school offer clinics for all skill sets and ages. A wide range of accommodation is also available, from romantic retreats to spacious family options, including four mountain lodges, the original and elegant Sun Valley Lodge as well as village condominiums and cottages.

Skiing

Sun Valley is consistently rated in the top ten by Ski Magazine. Bald Mountain's seven high-speed quads, four triples and five doubles take skiers to a height of 9,150 feet (2,789m), and its terrain includes glades, bowls, bumps, groomers, tree skiing, and easy rollers. It's also famous for its lack of lift lines, allowing for more time on the slopes. Dollar Mountain's gentler, treeless slopes are perfect for beginners, and its tubing hill is popular with families. Snowboarders aren't neglected either, as Dollar Mountain has a 22-foot superpipe. Sun Valley also has one of the most extensive and well-maintained Nordic trail systems in the country. The Zions Bank Boulder Mountain Tour, one of the country's top cross-country skiing events, is held here each year.

Shopping

Shoppers and holidaymakers will find the latest designer fashions and the top brands in technical skiwear in Sun Valley Village, as well as skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking equipment and accessories. In addition to an art gallery, there are a variety of gift and souvenir shops. Free bus service to lively Ketchum and its shops is also available.

Restaurants

Sun Valley's restaurants cater to every taste, from hearty Idaho fare and pizza to gourmet Mediterranean cuisine. Holiday visitors won't be disappointed. Those in a nostalgic mood can take the gondola up to Roundhouse, which was built in 1939 and is the first day lodge on Bald Mountain. A visit to Trail Creek Cabin is also a tradition; its three outdoor decks are open year-round and its sunset views are unforgettable. Visitors can even find sushi in nearby Ketchum.

Nightlife

Nightlife comes alive in Sun Valley during the winter months, when holiday visitors can enjoy the apres-ski socialising. The Duchin Lounge serves special hot-buttered rum that's a must-try. The Boiler Room is a popular nightspot that serves the obligatory American bar fare of nachos and chicken wings.

Holiday activities

There's no shortage of activities in addition to skiing and snowboarding, including hiking, snow-shoeing, tubing, dog sledding and ice skating in the winter. Guests can go horseback riding, hiking, biking, rafting, fly-fishing and canoeing in the spring, summer and fall. The hot springs of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area are also nearby.

Any negatives?

Some skiers have found the tighter valleys of the ski areas to be a bit uncomfortable during busier times. Others have judged the trails to be slightly more difficult than their posted ratings. At times, there's a lack of natural snow.