About Sun Valley
After an arduous search for the perfect location to build the "first destination ski resort in the U.S.", Averell Harriman purchased the 3,888 acre Brass ranch 1-mile outside of an old miner's town, Ketchum, Idaho. Completed in 1936 and named the Sun Valley Lodge by publicist Steve Hannagan, "Sun Valley" was born.
Today, Sun Valley is used more generally to speak of the region surrounding the city of Sun Valley as well as the neighboring city of Ketchum.
The city of Sun Valley is divided into two sections with Dollar Mountain (beginner ski hill) sitting between the two areas. The northern area- simply known as "Sun Valley" is centered around the Sun Valley Resort area and the Trail Creek Golf Course to the northeast. The southern area, Elkhorn, has its own development of homes, condos, and amenities primarily set around the Elkhorn Golf Course.
The city of Ketchum (which includes Warm Springs and the West Ketchum / River Run areas) is adjacent to Bald Mountain (primary ski hill) and the Big Wood River and Warm Springs Creek that run along its base. With fantastic restaurants, shops, and galleries, Ketchum is easily accessible to all areas of the Wood River Valley.
Visit the Communities section for a short overview, map, and vacation rental listings for each area.
Activities- Nature's Playground
Surrounded by five mountain ranges, Sun Valley is an outdoor recreation paradise with world class Alpine and Nordic skiing, Gold Medal Trout Waters, and over 400 miles of Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails. Tennis, Golf, Horseback Riding, Paragliding, Ice Skating, Paddle Boats, Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, and Snowmobiling, and just some of the activities readily available.
Activities- Art & Culture
A thriving art scene supports a multitude of Art galleries in Downtown Ketchum and events such as the Sun Valley Film Festival, Sun Valley Writers' Conference, the free Sun Valley Summer Symphony Concert series, and several other art, music and cultural events.
Check out our Local Area Guide for info on events and activities throughout the year. Check out the Weather & Web Cams page for current conditions.
