Enjoy The Sun Valley Lifestyle
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As residents of Ketchum and believers of the "Small town, Big Life" mantra, we’re excited to share insights into one of the West’s most iconic mountain towns. From real estate trends to outdoor adventures, we’re here to help you discover what makes this alpine destination so special.
Life in Sun Valley is about embracing nature, community, and an elevated lifestyle—literally and figuratively. Known as America’s first destination ski resort, Sun Valley is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Winter brings world-class skiing and snowboarding on Baldie and Dollar Mountains, while summer invites hikers, bikers, and fly fishers to explore the rugged beauty of the surrounding Sawtooth and Pioneer Mountains.
Housing options range from cozy condos in Ketchum to luxury homes tucked into the hillsides. With its vibrant arts scene, charming downtown, and scenic views in every direction, the Big Wood River Valley offers a rare blend of small-town charm and world-class amenities. Though historically a vacation home market, the area is seeing more full-time residents thanks to remote work flexibility and an unmatched lifestyle. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifetime, Sun Valley has a way of making you want to stay. Where do you want to live tomorrow?
JULY 2025 SALES ACTIVITY
Ketchum/Sun Valley/Hailey
Homes Pending/Sold: 92
Active Listings 197
Average Sales Price: $1.96m
New Listings: 68
Average Days on Market: 128
“"Scott is the maestro! He is a unique combination of advisor and one-stop-shop service!”
— A HAPPY CLIENT
Sun Valley experiences all four seasons, offering everything from powdery snow and crisp winter air to sunny summer days perfect for outdoor exploration.
Whether you're heading up for a ski weekend, hiking in the Sawtooths, or enjoying the vibrant local scene, it's smart to check current conditions before you go. Weather, traffic, and event activity can vary depending on the season—especially during peak travel times. Use the links below to stay up-to-date and plan your perfect Sun Valley getaway.
About Sun Valley
Sun Valley Resort, located near Ketchum in central Idaho, is America’s first destination ski resort and remains a year-round alpine retreat known for its natural beauty, rich history, and upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. In winter, it offers world-class skiing on Bald Mountain and beginner-friendly slopes on Dollar Mountain, along with Nordic trails and cozy lodge life. Summer brings hiking, biking, fly fishing, golf, and outdoor concerts, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains. With elegant lodging, a vibrant arts scene, and small-town charm, Sun Valley offers an unforgettable four-season mountain experience.
Outdoor Fun
MOUNTAIN BIKING
With over 400 miles of singletrack—including lift-accessed downhill on Bald Mountain—and paved multi‑use pathways, the choices span beginner to expert terrain.
FLY FISHING & RAFTING
The Big Wood River and famed Silver Creek Preserve host world-class trout fishing. Adventure seekers can enjoy guided rafting on the Middle Fork of the Salmon near Stanley, with floats for novices and rapids for experts
POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS
Additional adventures include hiking, horseback riding, paddleboarding, golf, scenic chairlift rides, and more. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or a quiet escape, there’s something for everyone here. Let us know what you're looking for—we’d love to share our favorite local spots and seasonal go-to’s!
Good Eats
The Ram Restaurant, Sun Valley’s original fine-dining spot since 1937, serves classic alpine cuisine in a refined, historic setting. Next door, the Ram Bar offers craft cocktails and light fare in a cozy lounge. Both provide a timeless Sun Valley dining experience.
Bigwood Bread has been a local favorite for 20+ years, known for fresh, handmade bread and hearty café fare. Their goods are delivered daily across the Valley and to Boise staples like Albertsons and the Co-Op.
Sawtooth Brewery Public House in Ketchum offers craft beers, local food, and a cozy, dog-friendly atmosphere. Open daily with trivia nights and happy hours, it’s a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
For an unforgettable meal paired with breathtaking views, The Roundhouse is the place to be. Boasting a spacious outdoor deck and a cozy four-sided fireplace, this unique dining spot is accessible exclusively by gondola.
Java, founded in 1991 by Todd Rippo, is a lively café known for its fresh-roasted, fair trade coffee, homemade bakery items, and SoCal-inspired menu—all served in a fun, rock ’n’ roll atmosphere.
Family-owned since 1998, this local spot is known for its hot or cold phat sub sandwiches, wide selection of chips, drinks, and sweets—and the famous $1 Budweiser draft. A longtime favorite of the working community.
New To The Area?
Relocating to a new town can feel overwhelming, but we’re here with resources to help make your transition to Sun Valley as seamless as possible. From lively resort living to quiet mountain retreats, Sun Valley offers a diverse range of neighborhoods to match your lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the slopes, the trails, or the vibrant arts scene, there's a community here for you. Use the list below as a starting point for exploring your future home base.
Single Family Homes
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Warm Springs
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Elkhorn
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Adams Gulch
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Griffin Ranch
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Ketchum
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Hailey
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Bellevue
Single Family Homes & Condominiums
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Sun Valley Village
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Elkhorn Village
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Dollar Mountain Area
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Saddle Road Corridor
Mail and package delivery in Sun Valley is convenient and reliable. The main post office is located in nearby Ketchum, just minutes from downtown Sun Valley. Most residents use P.O. boxes for regular mail pickup, as home delivery is limited in certain areas. However, UPS and FedEx deliver directly to residences and businesses, making online shopping and shipping easy year-round.
Sun Valley receives water and sewer services from the City of Sun Valley and nearby Ketchum utilities. Idaho Power provides electricity, and residential trash and recycling services are handled by Clear Creek Disposal.
Sun Valley is served by the Blaine County School District, which provides education for students throughout the Wood River Valley—including Sun Valley, Ketchum, Hailey, and Bellevue. The district is known for its strong academic programs and access to outdoor learning experiences.
Sun Valley is known as America's first destination ski resort, with a rich history that includes Native American heritage, a mining boom, and the establishment of a world-class ski resort in the 1930s.
A Rich History
Sun Valley's rich history begins over 10,000 years ago with the Shoshone, Bannock, and Lemhi tribes, who lived in and migrated through the area, sustainably stewarding its natural resources. In the 1870s, European settlers arrived during the gold rush, leading to the displacement of Indigenous communities. By the 1880s, Ketchum was a bustling mining town known for its hot springs. After the mining boom faded, Union Pacific scout Count Felix Schaffgosch discovered the area in 1936 and declared it the ideal location for a ski resort. Within a year, Sun Valley Resort opened as America’s first destination ski resort, attracting celebrities like Ernest Hemingway and cementing its place in history. Today, the area honors its Indigenous roots and preserves its glamorous past through local museums and landmarks.
GET IN TOUCH
Scott and Stephanie | RichardsRealty.com
Managing Broker | Premier Director | Relocation Specialist
Windermere Real Estate/East, Inc. - Bellevue Office
700 112th Ave NE, Suite 100
Bellevue, Washington
206.409.2498
Scott@RichardsRealty.com
Stephanie@RichardsRealty.com
© 2023 Windermere Real Estate
