If location is an indication of the character of a place, then Sun Valley and Ketchum, Idaho rank at the top. After enduring the seemingly endless trip across the incredibly flat lands of Idaho, the Sawtooth Range and Wood River Valley finally spread out before you with breathtaking views. Like a tiny jewel cupped in a great swath of fabric, so is Sun Valley tucked into the Sawtooth Mountain Range.
Renown as America's first ski resort, Sun Valley has always catered to a demographic that demanded the best in everything from lodging to food to ski instructors. The history is woven into the current resort like a rich tapestry: memorabilia from the 1940's and 50's is prevalent throughout the resort. Service and accomodations contine to be among the best in the ski industry, and the mountain is exceptionally challenging with steep grades, narrow runs, and forests thick with trees. The town of Sun Valley remains exclusive with a narrow demographic. ...But like most places I visit, I prefer the other, less famous side: Ketchum. Ketchum would probably still be a blip on the map if Demi and Ashton hadn't settled there for a while, but they've gone back to L.A. for most of their time, so Ketchum remains placid.
Ketchum feels like the kind of place that if a cowboy rode on a horse down Main Street in the middle of the business day, no one would look twice. It is not that contrived Western resort feeling; rather, it is the genuine article of a small town that values honesty, simplicity, and quality over the flash of Aspen. Don't show up at the famous Pioneer Saloon sporting a fur coat and diamonds and shiny new cowboy boots. If you want to look like the millionaire next door, just wear your old Levi's and some worn in boots with a comfortable sweater. Another delicious local spot is Desperado's Mexican. It's a place where there are vinyl booths and the harsh flourescent strips do not deter the Sun Valley crowd because the food is outrageously good after a long day on the slopes. And when you take the day off from the slopes, head to Cristina's Bakery for the most simple, organic fresh breakfast.
Cross-country trails and snowshoe trails abound in this part of the world. Those methods of excercise can be among the most physically challenging while enjoying the incredible scenery of the back-country. Yurts are available to rent in the Sawtooth range, but after one of the coldest nights I've ever spent, I'd recommend heading back to your warm, luxurious condo or hotel room!
Sun Valley and Ketchum are so remote and so difficult to get to that they remain special places. You either have to drive for three hours on the longest, flatest road in the United States from Boise, or you have to take your chances with constantly cancelled flights into the Hailey airport. Either way, it's a challenge. However, Sun Valley and Ketchum bask in the glorious sunshine that floods the beautiful mountains and valley and provides endless outdoor entertainment and exercise.
St. Andrews from the Cathedral
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