Sun Valley Resort

About

Sun Valley Resort holds a unique place in American history as the nation's first destination ski resort, opening in 1936 in the heart of Idaho's Wood River Valley. Nearly a century later, it remains one of the premier mountain destinations in the West, drawing visitors for world-class skiing, summer hiking, golf, and a vibrant arts scene in the neighboring town of Ketchum.

Winter is when Sun Valley truly shines. Bald Mountain rises over 9,000 feet and offers more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, while Dollar Mountain provides a gentler experience perfect for beginners and families. The resort's adaptive sports programs make skiing and snowboarding possible for people of all ability levels, continuing a long tradition of inclusive mountain recreation in Idaho.

When the snow melts, the valley transforms. Miles of paved pathways wind through Ketchum and the surrounding area, connecting parks, shops, restaurants, and scenic overlooks. The Wood River Trail system stretches over 20 miles and is popular with cyclists, walkers, and anyone looking to enjoy the mountain air at a relaxed pace. Summer also brings outdoor concerts, fly fishing on Silver Creek, and horseback riding through alpine meadows.

The Sun Valley Lodge and Sun Valley Inn anchor the resort's accommodations, both offering that classic mountain lodge atmosphere with modern comforts. Ketchum itself is a walkable town with dozens of restaurants ranging from casual burger spots to fine dining. Local galleries, boutiques, and the Sun Valley Center for the Arts round out the cultural offerings.

Getting there is straightforward. Friedman Memorial Airport in Hailey is just 12 miles south, with seasonal direct flights from several major cities. Boise is about 2.5 hours by car, making a road trip through Idaho's scenic highways another great option. Whether you're planning a ski vacation, a summer escape, or a shoulder-season retreat, Sun Valley delivers an experience that's equal parts adventure and relaxation.

Accessibility

Sun Valley Resort and the surrounding area offer several notable accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. The Sun Valley Inn has been specifically tested for ADA compliance and W3C WCAG 2.1 web accessibility standards. All doorways to and within accessible guest rooms are wheelchair accessible, and all hallways and corridors are free of steps or abrupt vertical level changes. Sidewalks and walkways on the property are clear of obstacles that could pose hazards to people with visual impairments or mobility devices.

The nearby Knob Hill Inn in Ketchum provides handicap and valet parking with sufficient width for wheelchair users to embark and disembark. A ramp is located at the front of the hotel for easy entry.

For winter sports, Idaho's adaptive skiing community is active in the region. Sun Valley is part of a broader network of Idaho ski areas that support adaptive programs, and visitors should contact the resort directly to confirm current adaptive ski lesson availability, equipment rentals, and lift accessibility for the season they plan to visit.

For the most current details on specific lift accessibility, adaptive equipment programs, accessible dining areas, restroom facilities, and trail conditions for mobility devices, contact Sun Valley Resort directly at their guest services line. Accessibility features and programs can vary by season, so confirming details before your trip will help ensure the best experience.

More accessible places in Idaho

• Sun Valley & Bald Mountain (Ketchum)
• Discovery Center of Idaho (Boise)
• Museum of Idaho (Idaho Falls)
• World Center for Birds of Prey (Boise)
• Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course (Hayden)
• Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park (Idaho Falls)