Not everyone gets on their first pair of skis at the age of 2. For Madeleine Eiting, her earliest memories of skiing are some of her earliest memories, period. Growing up in the midwest, she spent her childhood years skiing at nearby mountains, only to find her way to Denver, Colorado, where her love for skiing and the outdoors flourished. To experience the wide array of mountains she was newly surrounded by, Madeleine took advantage of the Ikon Pass, eventually leading her to Sun Valley, Idaho.

Located in the Idaho mountains, Sun Valley is infamous for consistent vertical pitch, endless groomers, and some of the best glade skiing. Aside from its terrain, the secret to this mecca for outdoor enthusiasts is the lack of crowds. While many of the more popular ski resorts have become highly desirable and as a result, packed with eager skiers and snowboarders on any given day, Sun Valley is just far enough away to keep the crowds light. Consisting of two mountain ranges and 3,400 vertical feet, this hidden gem quickly became a must see for Madeleine.

Madeleine learned that Sun Valley had just recently been added to the Ikon Pass and planned a trip to check another amazing mountain off her list. After flying to Ketchum, Idaho and renting a car, Madeleine arrived at the beautiful mountains of Sun Valley.

Known as the very first ski resort in the United States, the quaint and historical aesthetic of the destination painted an idyllic picture with a charming and old-timey feel. Between skiing, dining and accommodations, we were excited to learn more about Madeleine’s experience at Sun Valley!

Ski Spots

Located in Blaine County, Idaho, Sun Valley consists of two mountains. The main ski mountain, Bald Mountain, or “Baldy”, is known for its abundance of endless-pitch terrain and vertical drop and is widely referred to as one of the best ski mountains in the world. Directly adjacent is Dollar Mountain, which is suited for novice and beginner skiers and features treeless, moderate pitch terrain. With two different peaks with varying degrees of terrain, there is something for everybody. Whether you’re looking for wide open bowls or tree lined ridges, Sun Valley offers unbeatable skiing.

Seattle Ridge

Madeleine’s top area to ski in Sun Valley was Seattle Ridge. A section of Bald Mountain, Seattle Ridge offers moderate terrain for intermediate to advanced skiers with glades, groomers, and exceptional views. Her favorite part about this section of the mountain was the Seattle Ridge Lodge. Positioned atop the peaks, this gorgeous restaurant is the perfect spot to grab a midday bite before heading back out on the slopes.

visitsunvalley.com

Challenger Lift

The Challenger lift was another highlight for Madeleine, and for good reason! Running from the base of the Warm Springs Lodge, this lift takes you directly to the top of Baldy in under 10 minutes. Skiers and boarders overlook the beautiful Trail Creek and views of the surrounding peaks on their ride up to some of the best terrain Sun Valley has to offer.

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Where To Stay

Boasting a charming and European vibe, Sun Valley welcomes you with accommodations of all types, from luxurious cottages to historic lodges. Sun Valley makes up the northern section of the valley, where the quaint village is lined with shops and restaurants. On the southern side, located next to Dollar Mountain, is an area referred to as Elkhorn, which features a condo complex and 18-hole golf course. Whether you want to be near the action of Sun Valley village or kick back in Elkhorn, there’s something for everyone in this charming pocket of Idaho.

Sun Valley Inn

Madeline raves about her stay at the infamous Sun Valley Inn. Operating since 1937, this historic inn is reminiscent of an Austrian ski chalet, with rooms and amenities that have been redesigned and updated to accommodate all your needs. Featuring a delicious restaurant and bar, plus exercise facilities and an outdoor pool, this quaint inn provides a tranquil and timeless feel. Located conveniently by shops and restaurants, Madeleine loved the easy access to the village as well as the resort.

sunvalley.com

Hotel Ketchum

For a more luxe and refined feel, check out Hotel Ketchum. Conveniently situated on the main street of downtown Ketchum, this fully remodeled hotel provides a comfortable and easily-accessible homebase. If you’re looking for accommodations that don’t necessarily scream Sun Valley history, this is the spot for you. With tasteful decor, modern amenities, and comfy suites, Hotel Ketchum is a desirable place to call home throughout the duration of your stay in Sun Valley.

@hotelketchum

Where to Après in Sun Valley

We all love the inside scoop when it comes to Après, especially if we’re new to a ski town. Whether you’re looking to stay slopeside or venture into town, Sun Valley has a bevy of options for a post-ski beverage. From live music to local breweries, you will get the Sun Valley après culture anywhere you choose to regale your day on the hill.

Warm Springs Lodge

Located at the base of the Challenger lift and Baldy Mountain, the Warm Springs Lodge is a local favorite for après. Featuring live music, notable cocktails, and Sunday specials, the scene at this spot is hard to pass up. On a warm, spring day, the outdoor patio fills up quickly with lively and excitable skiers and boarders.

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Lefty's

Those who prefer to do their après off-mountain will love Lefty’s. Located right in town, Lefty’s is everyone’s favorite après destination to play some pool or watch the game with an all around fun vibe. Known for serving the best burger in town, the classic yet notable pub fare is what keeps the customers coming back. If you’re wanting the outdoor experience, enjoy the large patio for your après meal. Be sure to try the “monkey fries”, a local favorite!

visitsunvalley.com

Other Activities

Despite the fact that Sun Valley is most notable for its skiing, the area offers a wide range of other activities to check out while visiting. Between the lively downtown, rich historic culture, and endless mountainous terrain, you will find yourself short on time! Whether you’re traveling alone or with others, the list of fun things to do is endless and the good times don’t stop.

Thrifting

Though most of Madeleine’s trip consisted of skiing, she took advantage of the infamous thrift stores that are scattered throughout Ketchum. Whether you’re looking for vintage souvenirs or one-of-a-kind clothing items, shoppers will love the local thrifting scene. Some highlights for Madeleine were sister stores Goldmine Consignment and Goldmine Thrift, where everything from discounted clothing to ski gear can be found.

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Spa Day

For the ultimate day of rest and relaxation, enjoy the serene and nurturing environment at Zenergy Spa. Offering a wide variety of massages, treatments, and spa facilities, a spa day at Zenergy is the perfect way to round out your trip to Sun Valley. Take advantage of the saltwater pools or group fitness classes to nurture your body after exhausting days on the mountain!

@zenergy_sunvalley

Where to Eat

In addition to being known for world-class skiing and a historic culture, Sun Valley is also on the radar for delicious cuisine. With a plethora of restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience, visitors have endless options for meals. While ski towns are known for having classic mountain eateries, Sun Valley features old western saloons, authentic thai food, and classic Italian.

Konditorei

Madeleine had so many great dining experiences while visiting Sun Valley, choosing just two of her favorite spots was not easy. However, she absolutely loved Konditorei, an Austrian-inspired cafe and bakery. A favorite breakfast spot for many locals, Madeleine frequented Konditorei before hitting the mountain, and highly recommends the cauliflower hash!

@konditoreisunvalley

Rickshaw

For authentic, Asian cuisine, be sure to stop by Rickshaw. This cozy nook of a restaurant is located in downtown Ketchum and offers a lively indoor space and bar, plus an outdoor patio where you can cozy up by the fireplace after a long day on the slopes.. With a delicious menu and friendly atmosphere, this first come first serve restaurant is one you won’t want to miss out on.

visitsunvalley.com

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