7 Things to Do in Sun Valley in the Winter
Despite being named this year’s #1 ski resort by Ski Magazine, Sun Valley has plenty to offer for those who’d rather skip the slopes. From snowshoeing in the Sawtooth Basin to enjoying natural hot springs just outside of town, it’s the perfect time of year for outdoor enthusiasts. Even on colder days, it’s easy to keep cozy, stay active, and explore the area. Here are some of our favorite things to do during Sun Valley’s snowy season.
1. Visit Iconic Local Restaurants
No matter when you visit, your trip to Sun Valley would be incomplete without breakfast or brunch from The Kneadery. Since opening in 1974, generations of locals, seasonal homeowners, and tourists have made the iconic restaurant part of their experience in the Wood River Valley. Whether you’re getting ready to hit the slopes or just enjoying some time in downtown Ketchum, it’s the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and a hearty rustic breakfast (their famous Kneadery Benedict and fluffy buttermilk pancakes are our favorites). Local pro tip: If you’re hoping to beat the crowds, make sure to plan ahead. Weekends are especially busy after 10:00 am, and larger families usually need bigger tables later in the morning.
If this is your first trip to Sun Valley, The Pioneer Saloon (“The Pio” to locals) will make sure it’s not your last. From hearty stakes and prime rib to fresh seafood, famous Idaho potatoes, and crafted cocktails, the Pio offers authentic Rocky Mountain flavors with the ambiance to match. If you’re known to have a bit of a sweet tooth, save room for their mud pie. Trust us.
For guests staying at the resort, the Konditorei is open for breakfast, lunch, and late-afternoon snacks. The restaurant’s Austrian-inspired decor, fresh-baked pastries, and crackling fireplaces combine the best parts of Sun Valley’s history with its modern take on mountain tourism. Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the Village’s oldest eateries on our Voices & Views YouTube episode.
2. Rent Snowmobiles from Smiley Creek Lodge
During the winter season, there’s no better way to explore the Sawtooth Mountains and Stanley Basin than by snowmobile. For families, couples, and solo-travelers, it’s easy to rent single or multiple snowmobiles from Smiley Creek Lodge. About forty-five minutes from downtown Ketchum, it’s a can’t-miss experience for anyone coming to Sun Valley. Even though you’ll be able to borrow some equipment for your ride, it’s a good idea to dress warm. Temperatures are known to fall well below 0° and -10° F this time of year!
3. Spend a Night (or Two) in a Yurt at Galena Lodge
If you’re looking for a unique experience in the Rocky Mountains, Galena Lodge has you covered (literally). Snowshoe to one of the property’s multiple yurts just outside of town for an experience in the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve that you’ll never forget.
Check out our Galena Lodge Sun Valley Voices & Views episode on our YouTube channel!
4. Take a Sleigh Ride to Dinner at Trail Creek Cabin
One of the most popular activities for visitors around the Christmas season is a sleigh ride to Trail Creek Cabin. Snuggle up at the Sun Valley Lodge, sit back, and get cozy inside one of the company’s horse-drawn sleighs. Arrive just in time to warm up with dinner.
5. Go Sledding at Dollar Mountain
For younger families, sledding at Dollar Mountain is the perfect way to stay entertained in the late afternoon. Ski lifts close at 4:00 pm, so lower Dollar Mountain is usually emptied out by 4:30 or 5:00 pm. Depending on the time of year, the sun is probably already setting—so you’ll want to keep little ones in heavier coats and extra layers (we’d also recommend bringing hand warmers, just in case!).
6. Go Night Skiing at Rotarun
If you’re visiting Sun Valley with children—or just looking for an alternative to the usual nightlife—make sure to save a spot on your itinerary for skiing at Rotarun. Opened in 1948 with the original mission of teaching Hailey locals how to ski, the mountain has been a family favorite for more than 70 years. Stop by after dark to experience Rotarun’s beginner-friendly slopes, old-fashioned platter ski lift, and bright lights.
Watch our Voices & Views episode from Kelly’s visit to Rotarun with her daughter Maddie.
7. Go Ice Skating (or Catch an Ice Show) at the Sun Valley Lodge
Sun Valley’s ice rink has been shared by locals, visitors, and Olympic gold medalists alike. Rent a pair of skates or bring your own for the perfect winter experience. If you’d rather stay off the rink, Sun Valley schedules multiple ice shows every season. Family-friendly and fun for audiences of all ages, ice shows are one of the resort’s biggest events during the colder months. If you’re in town for Christmas Eve, make sure to stick around for the Dollar Torchlight Parade and fireworks show. You won’t want to miss it.
Even if you’ve visited in the spring or summer months, winter in Sun Valley is an experience like nothing else. For locals and tourists alike, there’s so much to see, do, and explore—both on and off the ski mountain. Whether this is your first time in the Wood River Valley or you’re returning for another season, we’re so excited to share it with you. Stay warm out there!