Summer Activities
Horseback Riding
What would a vacation in the Idaho mountains be without a horseback riding adventure? In Sun Valley, you will have many options to re-live the days of the old west. It’s time to saddle-up! Whether you are seeking an elaborate and authentic horseback riding excursion into the backcountry, family-friendly guided trail rides up Dollar Mountain or wagon rides and instructions for beginners you are sure to find the perfect horseback riding adventure in Sun Valley. Bringing your own horse? There are also endless trails worth exploring in the Sawtooth and Smokey Mountain ranges!
Golfing
Looking to hit the links? The north valley offers four golf courses coupled with world-class amenities. Spend an afternoon on the impeccably manicured greens and fairways surrounded by gorgeous mountain views or challenge yourself on a course with an impressive mix of Idaho’s harsh terrain, steep elevations, and unbelievable panoramic views. Be sure to pack your clubs for your next Sun Valley vacation! With six months of welcoming weather in the 60s and 70s, Sun Valley is a perfect Idaho golf destination.
Mountain Biking
A summer vacation in Sun Valley, Idaho offers incredibly beautiful scenery and an abundance of outdoor activities. What better way to explore this stunning area than on some unbeatable single-track? With the summer sun up until 10 pm nightly, bikers can shred the area’s hundreds of miles of groomed mountain bike trails to their heart’s content. To put it simply, you can’t beat the mountain biking conditions in Sun Valley. The Wood River Valley also has over 30 miles of paved bike trails for those looking for a more casual ride.
Skateboarding
With two incredible, top-notch skateparks within 15 miles of each other, it is easy to understand that our little slice of Idaho is a skater’s dream. The two main skate parks, designed by Dreamworks Skateparks and considered some of the top skateparks in the nation, bring rippers of all ages to the Wood River Valley. The area skate competitions are also a fun event to check out if you are going to be in the area. Whether you skate to live, or live to skate, here is what we know.
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing in Idaho is an angler’s dream come true. Our slice of paradise will bring you closer to the native Chinook salmon, steelhead, bull, rainbow and brown trout, not to mention the cutthroats. Grab your waders, float tube, fly rod and ties – it’s time to get ready for the rise. Centrally located in Southern Idaho, the Wood River Valley yields easy access to fly fishing with access to some of the most amazing waterways. Whether venturing out to the headwaters of the Salmon or to the banks of the Lost River, you will not be disappointed.
Swimming
Looking to cool off on a hot summer day? Take a dip in the Big Wood River or one of Idaho’s beautiful lakes- after all, you are in Ketchum. Not only are there plenty of lakes, but a river also runs through it…. the Big Wood River that is! Believe it or not, there are more outdoor enthusiasts visiting Sun Valley in summer than in winter. This fun fact explains why it’s no surprise folks have found access to swimming holes up and down the valley. Learn about our favorite Sun Valley swimming holes and mountain lakes!
Sun Valley on Ice
Come see world-class ice skaters performing select Saturdays throughout the summer. Each year, the Ice Show attracts numerous Olympic, World, and US Medalists. See your favorite stars – OUTSIDE!
Sun Valley on Ice runs Saturday nights throughout the summer at the Sun Valley Outdoor Ice Rink. Each show is about 60 minutes, and features an all-star lineup of some of the world’s finest skaters. Many of the skaters are medal winners in various world competitions such as the Olympics. Hot Chocolate, coffee and other beverages are available for purchase. Bundle up as it may get pretty chilly. Parking is also provided just across the street to the resort. It is an incredible experience to watch these fantastic skaters perform under the stars with a group of great friends. The rink is in The Sun Valley Resort and is an iconic and world class rink that you yourself could skate on the very next day, as it is open year round.
And plan ahead for the annual Christmas Eve Ice Show starring Santa Claus himself!
River Rafting
With over 3000 white water river miles in the state of IDAHO, it is no wonder vacationers can’t wait to explore this fun-filled activity. Welcome to Sun Valley, Idaho. Brace yourself. An action-packed Salmon River country adventure is waiting. The locals will tell you that there is nothing better than a day on the river. OK – maybe a handmade milkshake from Smiley Creek Lodge places a close second! But nothing beats the adrenaline rush from a white-water river rafting trip.
As a vacationer, where and how do you begin to set this up? Here is what we know.
Just north of Sun Valley in Stanley, Idaho, there are many reputable river rafting companies offering a variety of trips available. There are full and half day outings. There are multi-day overnight trips which include the “glamping lifestyle”. There are trips designed for the family or novice as well as the hardcore adrenaline junkie. There are class IV raft trips in the early part of river season, kayaking and float fly-fishing trips. Reaching out and exploring your options is always good. So, give them a call and visit them online. Find the river rafting trip that fits your personality and thrill seeking threshold.
Paragliding
There’s Nothing Like a Bird’s Eye View!
Imagine flying high over Ketchum and Sun Valley with a bird’s eye view of the mountain towns below. Calling all adrenaline junkies of all ages! A Paragliding adventure in Ketchum and Sun Valley awaits with the highly trained and professional Fly Sun Valley.
Locally owned and operated, Fly Sun Valley is the Wood River Valley’s go-to source for a unique and life-changing aerial adventure. With experience starting in the late 80s, FSV is fully insured, a USHPA-certified paragliding tandem instructor, and operates through an exclusive commercial permit issued by the US Forest Service. It’s the real deal for safety and adventure!
Taking off from the top of Baldy, thrill seekers have the option of experiencing a tandem flight or taking flight instructions to fly solo. Don’t worry – you won’t be jumping off a cliff! Launching is as easy as taking a few steps forward while the glider gently lifts into the air. Want to catch every moment on film? No problem! Your Fly Sun Valley tandem pilot carries the latest GoPro camera and is ready to seize every moment! Providing instruction, equipment sales & service to fit every paragliding adventure, Fly Sun Valley is in downtown Ketchum at 160 4th Street West. Book your adventure now! Call Fly Sun Valley at 208.726.3332.
For a first-hand account, check out “A Birthday Paragliding Trip”
Hiking
There are many reasons why a summer vacation in southern Idaho is an outdoor enthusiast dream come true. On just about any given summer day in the Idaho mountains, the sky is clear blue and cloudless. The birds are chirping while butterflies dance from one patch of wildflowers to the next. The Big Wood River is runs fast and holds the promise of rafting, fly-fishing, or simply an opportunity for cooling off in one of the many local swimming holes. Imagine waking up in this mountain paradise. You’ve already had your breakfast at Perry’s and Java’s Bowl of Soul! Life is good! It’s now time to put on your hiking shoes and spend time with Mother Nature.
Hiking in the Ketchum/Sun Valley/Hailey areas offers seemingly endless options. With over 400 miles of single track trails, there are hikes designed for the family, as well as the more serious adventurer. There are hikes offering shade and more open spaces. There are switchbacks to the top of Baldy, as well as more challenging direct vertical climbs. Want to venture out for a few hours yet stay close to town? Try Proctor Loop, Adams Gulch or Lake Creek. Want to include your dog? No problem. Simply make sure you understand the local leash laws.
Whether it’s a day spent north exploring sweeping views of the Boulders from the Fox Creek Trail System or a longer, more challenging trek to the historic Pioneer Cabin, make certain to plan well. Take plenty of water, pack a lunch, wear your sunscreen, and don’t venture out alone. If you are uncertain where to go, maps and hiking guides indicating trials, duration and difficulty levels are available at Ketchum’s Chapter One Bookstore or at the Elephant’s Perch. Shuttles and guided trips to your favorite spots are also available. Check out the Sawtooth National Recreation Area Visitor Center or the Sun Valley Visitor Center for more information and up-to-date hiking information. Hiking can be enjoyed by everyone. All you need is a good attitude to tackle the altitude.
For some inspiration check out our hiking blogs:
Alice Lake Hike
Norton Lakes – Best Bang for the Buck
The Road to Boulder City
Tennis
Game! Set! Match!
Tennis anyone? Well, of course! Tennis is the perfect sport for all ages! It’s social! It’s athletic! It’s strategic! Whether playing singles or doubles, whether enjoying Cardio Tennis or a Ball Machine workout, in Sun Valley you can ace your game any time of the year. Yes, you read that right! There is club access to year-round indoor courts, while both club and free outdoor play is available mid-June to mid-September weather permitting. Grab your racquet. It’s game, match, set!
Private tennis clubs, like Zenergy or the Valley Club, offer membership opportunities and drop in rates for guests and the public. The tennis clubs at Sun Valley and Elkhorn offer priority court times to property owners and their guests but, are also open to the public. As with most tennis clubs, there are Pro Shops, clinics, private and group instruction. There are pickle ball matches, Tennis Socials, and other activities ready to fill your social calendar. Access to more casual, free court time can be found at Atkinson’s Park in Ketchum, and at Wood River High School or Heagle Park in Hailey. With well-maintained indoor and outdoor tennis courts scattered throughout the Wood River Valley, you’ll have the advantage and quickly declare match point!
As with many tennis facilities and clubs, dress and conduct codes apply. But, being a tennis player in the know, you are prepared and completely understand. Playing times and court availability vary. To find the tennis facility that is your racquet, call ahead.
Rock Climbing
Whether you’re a rock climbing expert or just beginning, the options are endless. Come down to the local YMCA where they have their own personal rock wall. Or, if you want the thrill of climbing real rock, the Sawtooth Mountains are the place to go. The Elephant’s Perch and Finger of Fate are perfect for those more advanced climbers.
Wood River YMCA: 208.727.9622 or click here
Sport Shooting
Sun Valley Gun Club is a premier target shooting facility providing a full range of services for individuals or groups. Offering trap, five-stand, and sporting clays, there is something to challenge shooters of every level from novice to expert. All instructors are certified by the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA). Private and group lessons are available.
The gun club is open early spring through Sept. 30th. Early/late discounted rates apply before June 30th and after Sept 2nd. Peak season rates apply June 30th to Sept 2nd. Guests staying at Sun Valley properties get a 15% discount on shooting packages with their amenities pass.