This Laid-back Ski Mountain Has 250 Days of Sunshine, 2,500 Acres of Groomed Trails-and Hardly Any Crowds

"An Idaho beauty bathed in sunshine, ski legacy, and old-school vibes, Sun Valley occupies a rarefied place in the American ski imagination. When the resort opened in 1936, it quickly became a playground for Hollywood's elite-think Hemingway, Hayworth, Monroe, and a steady cast of screen legends who helped cement its glamorous reputation. Ninety years later, Sun Valley is still famous, but in a quieter, more self-assured way."

"Skiing and snowboarding here is defined by consistency. Bald Mountain-"Baldy" to those in the know-is renowned for its smooth, perfectly groomed runs and reliable sunshine. Thanks to extensive snowmaking and the mountain's naturally even, fall-line terrain, Sun Valley doesn't need massive snow totals to ski well. When other resorts are battling bumps or bare spots, Baldy's corduroy often remains impeccable, rewarding skiers and snowboarders who love speed, precision, and long, uninterrupted descents."

"Off the slopes, Sun Valley and the nearby town of Ketchum retain an old-money vibe that feels refreshingly homey. There are no big chain stores -aside from a lone Starbucks-and the community is deeply engaged, with roots that often stretch back generations. It's the kind of place where supermarkets, bakeries, and gear shops cater as much to locals and longtime visitors as they do to tourists. At 90 years old, Sun Valley isn't chasing trends. It knows exactly who it is-and that's precisely the appeal."

Sun Valley is a sunlit Idaho ski resort known for its historic glamour and enduring appeal. The resort opened in 1936 and attracted Hollywood elites, fostering a longstanding reputation for elegance. Located at 6,000 feet where three mountain ranges meet, Sun Valley sits amid nearly a million acres of peaks and wilderness, offering big skies and uncrowded terrain. Bald Mountain delivers consistent skiing with smooth, perfectly groomed runs, reliable sunshine, extensive snowmaking, and naturally even fall-line terrain that preserves corduroy when other resorts show bumps. The nearby town of Ketchum maintains an old‑money, community-oriented character with few chains and services geared to locals and visitors alike.

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