Sun Valley is known as one of the best ski resort towns in the Northwest and was actually the first ski hill in America! Every winter, major celebrities, and ski families come to Sun Valley to enjoy the sunshine, powdery snow, stunning views, and amazing winter activities the valley has to offer. It’s one of my favorite places to visit in Idaho, and I highly recommend going in the winter because of all the fun snow activities—and, of course, aprés skiing! Surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains and Sawtooth National Forest, Sun Valley is a breathtaking place for the whole family to visit.
Planning to visit Sun Valley this winter? Here are my favorite things to do in the winter in the area.
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The Best Winter Activities in Sun Valley Idaho
1. Ski or Snowboard on Bald Mountain or any of the Sun Valley Ski Resort hills
Sun Valley is known to be one of the steepest and toughest mountains in the Northwest, and it’s no joke. Bald Mountain is massive and really fun, but not for the faint of heart! If you’re like me, you’ll probably be sore afterward. If you want something a bit easier, try Dollar Mountain! Check out all of my favorite ski resorts in Idaho, here! And don’t worry if you don’t ski, there are great spots for apres ski and plenty of other winter activities to enjoy in Sun Valley!
Wondering what to pack for a ski trip? Check out my packing post.
2. Snowshoe or cross country ski at the Nordic Center or Galena Lodge
The Sun Valley Nordic & Snowshoe Center has over 40km of trails for you to snowshoe, cross country ski or skate ski. You can also do an animal tracking class on snowshoes at the ERC! I did this last time I was in Sun Valley and I highly recommend it—I learned a ton.
Another great area for snowshoeing and cross country skiing is up at Galena Summit. At Galena Lodge, you can rent gear up here and head out on their trails. Once you’re done, you can head back and enjoy some lunch!
3. Take a horse drawn sleigh ride
These sleigh rides are so fun and beautiful! Take a ride from the Sun Valley Lodge and end up with a cozy dinner at Trail Creek Cabin! These rides are very popular, so be sure to book them in advance here!
4. Ice skate at the Sun Valley Lodge
This is one of my favorite winter activities to do in Sun Valley. The ice rink is right behind the Sun Valley Lodge and is a great day or night activity. You’ll skate where some of the most famous ice skaters have skated! On Christmas Eve, they also do a special ice show event with free hot chocolate, cider and cookies and then end with a torch parade and fireworks at Dollar Mountain. See hours and pricing here.
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5. Go to the Pioneer Saloon for dinner
You must get a dirty martini and their famous prime rib. They don’t take reservations and get pretty packed in the winter, so be prepared to wait in the bar, or get there early to guarantee a seat.
Don’t want to wait in line? Some of my other favorite spots for dinner in Sun Valley are:
- Rickshaw – Amazing Asian fusion
- The Covey – Farm to table in a fun atmosphere
- Enoteca – Great selection of pizzas and wine
- Vintage – One of the fancier restaurants in the area, but delish!
- Michel’s Christiania – Upscale French cuisine
- Despo’s – Great Mexican food
- Grumpy’s or Lefty’s – For casual burgers and beer
- Sawtooth Club – I love sitting in the bar area here and getting their apps!
- The Lounge at Limelight – They have a nice lounge and casual atmosphere with fun live music some nights
6. Take a walk around the Sun Valley Village
The Sun Valley Resort is a fun place to check out. Within the resort is the Sun Valley Village which feels like a little winter wonderland. You’ll want to be sure to check out all of the ice sculptures and cute Austrian-inspired shops in the village. Also, make sure and stop by the pond and the large sun sculpture in front of the Sun Valley Lodge. You’ll probably also spot some swans. One of my favorites things to do on visit to Sun Valley!
7. Head over to one of the many hot springs in the area.
Hot springs are a special treat in Idaho. If you decide to go, just make sure you use proper hot spring etiquette.
8. Grab a drink and aprés ski
Listen to the live music at Whiskey’s on Main or check out my post on Visit Idaho to see my entire list of best aprés ski spots in Sun Valley!
10. If you’re there during Christmas time:
- Get a tree permit and cut down your own Christmas tree
- Watch the tree lighting ceremony
- Grab hot chocolate and cookies at the Ice show at the Sun Valley Lodge on Christmas Eve
- Watch the Christmas Eve fireworks and Torch Parade
- Here is a list of upcoming Christmas season events!
NOTE: If you’re in Sun Valley for a girls’ weekend, be sure to check out my post about a Girls’ Weekend Guide in Sun Valley Idaho. Some of my tips are for a summer trip, but there are still tips that work for a winter girls’ weekend!
Where to stay in Sun Valley
If you’re looking for great places to stay in Sun Valley or Ketchum, Idaho area, check out my most updated blog with my favorite spots! At the top of the list are Hotel Ketchum and the Sun Valley Lodge! Both are perfect for a winter vacation.
Do you have anything else to add to the list?
READ NEXT:
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Girls’ Weekend Guide to Sun Valley Idaho
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