The Ultimate Winter Itinerary for Spending a Weekend in Sun Valley, Idaho
Winter is a special time of year in Sun Valley, Idaho. Once the snow starts to fly, town is usually bustling with tourists and travelers from all over the world. There's plenty to see and do for those who visit this winter-wonderland, which is why we've put together an itinerary that will help you maximize your long-weekend experience.
This itinerary is designed for those who want to explore the area and experience all that it has to offer, but don't have a ton of time on their hands. If you're looking for an action-packed itinerary with lots of things to see and do, you've come to the right place.
Day One: Getting to Sun Valley, Idaho
With direct flights going in and out of popular destinations like Denver and San Francisco, Sun Valley's airport is typically accessible during the winter months. If your trip happens to land on a particularly snowy weekend, be prepared for a potential shuttle getting you into the valley. Nestled between two mountain ranges, visibility at Sun Valley's airport can get heavily impacted when a blizzard comes through.
Rental cars are available directly outside baggage claim, although vehicles can be in high demand during peak season. We recommend reserving your transportation as early as possible since Sun Valley and its surrounding cities do not offer large amounts of public transportation or rideshare services.
From the airport, you'll make your way north through downtown Hailey and then Ketchum. Depending on what time you land, you'll want to get checked into your hotel so you can drop your bags. Although you can stay on Resort property at the iconic Sun Valley Lodge, most hotel accommodations can be found in Ketchum, including:
Photo by @limelighthotel
For dinner on Friday night, we suggest exploring more of Ketchum and Sun Valley's nightlife. A local's favorite, the Pioneer Saloon—referred to as "The Pio"—should definitely be on your radar. With their famous Mud Pie and delicious steaks, baked potatoes, and cocktails, a night at the Pio is the perfect way to settle into historic Sun Valley.
For the night owls, take a quick drive up to the Resort and enjoy breathtakingly clear night skies with Bald Mountain serving as a picturesque backdrop. During the holiday season, the Resort will be speckled with ice sculptures and decorations. Feel free to pop into the Inn's Challenger Bar for a nightcap before heading to the hotel for the night.
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Day Two: Skiing and Snowboarding at Bald Mountain
If you're lucky, waking up on Saturday morning you'll be greeted by fresh snowfall and the smell of neighboring chimney smoke as town starts to come to life for the weekend.
If you'd rather ease into the morning and not hit the slopes first thing when the mountain opens, we suggest grabbing a bite to eat. If you're looking for a hearty Sun Valley breakfast, there's no better place in town than The Kneadery. A staple in Ketchum for decades, the popular breakfast spot is usually filled with hungry guests by 10:00 am. You'll find a delicious menu of scrambles, pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast favorites.
Image from Visit Sun Valley
And with The Kneadery located just off Sun Valley Road, you can grab a quick shuttle to Bald Mountain right after you've finished your meal. During the winter months, all Mountain Rides buses are equipped with ski and snowboard racks. Climb aboard with your snow gear and other equipment and you'll find yourself at the base of Bald Mountain's River Run Lodge in just a few minutes.
For the most up-to-date pricing information on day-use ski passes, make sure to check out sunvalley.com. You can buy a pass directly inside the main lodge where you'll also find ski lockers, restrooms, and a variety of dining options.
For lunch options while you're out skiing, our personal favorite is Seattle Ridge Lodge. Located on the most southern side of the mountain, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of Sun Valley, Ketchum, and Hailey. The outdoor deck is usually busy on warm winter days, but if you're lucky enough to grab a seat in the sun... well, there's just nothing better.
With the mountain closing down at 4:00 pm, you'll want to start making your way back to the shuttles in the late afternoon. After a quick shower and change of clothes back at the hotel, you'll be ready for dinner.
On a Saturday night, there are some great options for dining both in downtown Ketchum and at the Resort. We strongly recommend making a reservation well in advance as most locations are booked out weeks prior and may not accept walk-ins (at all) during the holiday season.
A few of our favorites in Ketchum:
Dining options available at the Resort:
Photo by Kevin Syms
Day Three: Snowmobiling in Stanley, Idaho
For your final day in Sun Valley, we recommend making the most of what's left of the weekend by exploring north of town.
If you're looking for a great way to get out into nature without having to break much of a sweat, snowmobiling is one activity that won't disappoint. With miles and miles of groomed trails stretching from Ketchum all the way up to Stanley, there are plenty of options available when planning where you'd like to ride. From half-day excursions lasting only a few hours to longer multi-day trips, there really is something for everyone.
Before making your way up north, grab a cup of coffee and pastry from local favorite Bigwood Bread. Located in the industrial park in northwest Ketchum, Bigwood offers a variety of baked goods like croissants, cinnamon rolls, and muffins. If you are looking for a sit down meal, you can also snag a cozy table by the fireplace and enjoy their other breakfast offerings.
From Bigwood, you’ll make your way north of town past Galena Lodge to Smiley Creek. Take your time driving north as the roads can be icy in snowy conditions. In less than an hour, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering pine trees and breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains.
Smiley Creek Lodge offers guided snowmobiling activities that are perfect for friends and family. Explore all that the Stanley Basin has to offer with an afternoon filled with crisp mountain air and beautiful winter scenery.
You’ll want to be back on the road no later than 4:00 pm as the sun starts to set around 5:00 pm. Local wildlife—including deer and elk—are most active at dusk and can make the drive back to town more dangerous.
If you’re catching a flight out of Sun Valley that night, you’ll want to get to the airport at least an hour before your departure time. If you are also needing to return a rental car, make sure you have enough time before checking in.
Ready to plan your next trip?
Ready to plan your next trip to Sun Valley, Idaho? We hope this long-weekend itinerary was helpful! If you have other recommendations for places that should be on our list, make sure to leave a note in the comments. We hope to see you in Sun Valley this winter. Safe travels!