Sun Valley travel guide

Sun Valley travel guide

National Airports

The closest airport to Sun Valley, Idaho is the Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) located in Hailey, which is about 14 miles south of Sun Valley.

Trains in Sun Valley

There are no trains that go directly to Sun Valley, Idaho. The nearest Amtrak train station is in Hailey, Idaho, which is about 14 miles south of Sun Valley. From there, visitors can take a shuttle, taxi or rental car to Sun Valley. Alternatively, visitors can take a train to Boise, Idaho and then take a shuttle, bus or rental car to Sun Valley.

Buses in Sun Valley

Sun Valley is served by the Mountain Rides bus system, which operates year-round bus service to several locations in the area, including Ketchum, Hailey, and Bellevue. There is also a free shuttle service provided by Sun Valley Resort during the winter months that runs between the resort and several locations in Ketchum. Additionally, private shuttle services and taxi services are available in the area.

How to get to Sun Valley

Sun Valley, Idaho is located in the western United States, and there are several ways to get there.

By Air: The closest airport to Sun Valley is Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN), located in Hailey, Idaho, which is just 14 miles south of Sun Valley. The airport is served by several airlines including Alaska Airlines, Delta Connection, and United Express, and has nonstop flights to several cities in the western US including Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Denver.

By Car: Sun Valley is located about 150 miles east of Boise, Idaho, and is easily accessible by car. Visitors can take Highway 75 north from the Boise area and follow it through the towns of Ketchum and Hailey before arriving in Sun Valley. During the winter months, it is recommended to check road conditions and be prepared for winter driving conditions.

By Bus: Several bus companies offer service to Sun Valley including Greyhound, Salt Lake Express, and Sun Valley Express. The Sun Valley Express operates between Boise and Sun Valley with several stops along the way.

By Shuttle: Several companies offer shuttle service from the Friedman Memorial Airport to Sun Valley and the surrounding areas. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.

What is the best time to travel to Sun Valley

The best time to visit Sun Valley is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and fishing are at their peak. The winter months, from December to March, are also popular, as Sun Valley is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on your mode of transportation, so be sure to check weather and road conditions before you travel.

How to get around Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a small town, and it is easy to get around on foot, by bike, or by car. Some of the main transportation options for getting around Sun Valley include:

Car rentals: Renting a car is a popular way to get around Sun Valley and the surrounding area. There are several car rental companies located at the Friedman Memorial Airport and in downtown Ketchum.

Shuttle services: Shuttle services are available from the Friedman Memorial Airport to Sun Valley Resort, Ketchum, and other nearby locations.

Taxi and rideshare services: Taxis and rideshare services are available in Sun Valley and Ketchum. Uber and Lyft are both available in the area.

Buses: The Mountain Rides bus system provides public transportation in the Wood River Valley, including service to Sun Valley and Ketchum. The system has several routes that operate year-round, and fares are reasonable.

Biking and walking: Sun Valley is a pedestrian- and bike-friendly town. The Sun Valley area has more than 30 miles of paved bike paths, making it easy to get around on two wheels. Many of the area’s attractions and amenities are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the town on foot.

Accommodations in Sun Valley

Sun Valley, Idaho offers a range of accommodations including hotels, lodges, vacation rentals, and condos. Some of the popular options are:

Sun Valley Resort: Located at the base of the ski area, this iconic resort offers luxurious accommodations including hotels, lodges, and condos. It also offers a range of activities including skiing, ice-skating, golfing, and hiking.

Limelight Hotel: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Ketchum, just minutes from Sun Valley Resort. It offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop hot tub, and a lively lounge.

Tamarack Lodge: This cozy lodge is located near the Big Wood River, just minutes from the ski area. It offers a range of accommodations including rooms, suites, and cabins.

Wood River Inn: This affordable hotel is located in the heart of Hailey, just a short drive from the ski area. It offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Airbnb and VRBO: There are many vacation rentals available in Sun Valley through these popular platforms. They offer a range of options from cozy condos to luxurious homes.

It’s recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons like winter and summer.