Sun Valley Summer Activities

The Sun Valley area boasts nearly one million acres of surrounding wilderness and just about as many summer activities. Guests are invited to enjoy the many natural wonders -- flyfishing in beautiful Silver Creek, hiking through teeming fields of wildflowers on Bald Mountain, or riding the rapids of the Salmon River. Thirty paved miles of bike trails, award-winning golf courses, a skateboard park and chairlift rides add a multitude of man-made marvels to Sun Valley's stunning backdrop.

Hiking
Rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking trips can end at the top of a ten thousand foot peak or at a pristine alpine lake. Spectacular views are everywhere and spotting wildlife is virtually guaranteed. Guided trips are available for any length trip and for any ability. For those choosing to go solo, maps and guide information are available at the Sun Valley/ Ketchum Visitors Center, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area Visitor Center, Ketchum Ranger District, local bookstores, and the Community Library.

Biking
Biking in Sun Valley, whether on the flat or up the trail is an experience. Sun Valley, Idaho is home to the best single track in the country. From short spins to epic adventures, you can find it here. The trails here are often described as "buttery" because they're so smooth. With sustained climbs and fast descents, the riding here is not to be missed. The incredible views of the Pioneer and Smoky Mountain ranges will take your breath away.

Horseback Riding
Horseback riding outfitters are ready to take you wherever you would like to go on a multi or single day trip. Excursions into nature are not limited to the animal friend that you pick to help guide you. A popular activity is day hikes with llamas. Hikers are accompanied with trained guides through many of the scenic wilderness areas and the llamas carry everything. Both options are a great family activity.

River Rafting
Float, Boat, or Swim— Raft, kayak or tube Idaho’s wild rivers and their rapids. Along the Salmon and Payette rivers hot springs, Indian pictographs, thousand-foot cliffs, and trout fishing are a few of the treats found in a day’s journey. The gentle but exhilarating rapids on the day-stretches of the Salmon River are perfect for families and seniors looking for a little excitement. Eleven local outfitters offer single or multi-day river trips for rafters or kayakers. Head south of Ketchum for a day of flat-water kayaking and of wildlife viewing. Just 45 minutes north of Sun Valley three high alpine lakes invite windsurfers, water skiers, canoers, swimmers, and SCUBA divers to jump in. Classes and rental equipment are available at many area sporting good stores.

Golf
Said to be one of the most addictive sports ever invented and at one time banned in Scotland due to its popularity in the 15th century because lads were not tending to their archery responsibilities, golf is a pastime, a sport and a culture that easily fits into the Sun Valley experience. Though perhaps a more humble sport than skiing and mountain biking, playing the greens in these mountains is sure to elevate the spirit. Home to three eighteen hole courses that range from target design and tree-lined fairways varying in width to Elkhorn's maze of water hazards and sand bunkers.