When spring rolls around, it’s the ideal time of year to dust off any remaining thoughts of plummeting temperatures and set your sights on scenic horizons in Sun Valley, Idaho. This endlessly inspiring vacation destination has something to offer travelers in all seasons, but spring is particularly inviting as the mountain and valley landscapes come into bloom and opportunities to get out and explore expand too. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing Sun Valley spring getaway or a trip where you can add all of your hobbies and interests to the to-do list, Sun Valley is an ideal destination this year.
Day 1
The first day of your spring journey to Sun Valley begins with a delicious breakfast enjoyed at Konditorei. Located in the Sun Valley village, this eatery is an Austrian-inspired bakery where you can enjoy savory breakfast bites and hot coffee in good company. They have a wide variety of homemade pastries on the menu as well as more robust options like eggs benedict, omelets, and Schnitzel waffles. No matter what you order, it’s a great place to linger and fuel up for a day of fun Sun Valley spring activities ahead.
While you might be under the impression that spring in Sun Valley means ski season is officially over, it’s just not the case! Yes, spring marks the end of ski season but in many ways, this is the ideal time of year to hit the slopes with blue skies and warmer temperatures on your side. At Sun Valley Resort, there are a variety of annual events in place to mark the end of ski season with skiing and snowboarding competitions alike typically on the calendar. The slopes don’t generally close until April which gives spring travelers every reason to grab their skis and spend day one enjoying downhill fun. There are runs available for skill levels of every type and renting the gear you need here is easy, so you don’t have to worry about overpacking for your trip.
When you’re ready to warm up, pack up the ski gear and head over to one of Sun Valley’s many inspiring galleries this afternoon. Places like the Sun Valley Museum of Art are a must-visit when you’re looking to enjoy a wide variety of artistic displays and exhibits featuring local and global artists. The Sun Valley Museum of Art was founded in 1971 as a way to instill a passion and appreciation for the arts in the local community. Today, it remains a place where you can explore paintings, photography, and sculpture or participate in one of the many on-site programs hosted throughout the year. There’s no cost to visit and the museum is open daily from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm.
Tonight, treat yourself to an evening of fine dining at The Ram. This Sun Valley Resort eatery is a sophisticated place to enjoy a delicious lineup of heritage menu options including seared scallops, oysters Rockefeller, beef tartare, and fondue too. The wine and handcrafted cocktail list is designed to impress but it might just be the plush couches, and brick patio overlooking the Sun Valley pond that brings you back time and again.
Day 2 of Your Sun Valley Spring Getaway
The second day of your stay takes you to The Kneadery for breakfast at 260 N. Leadville Avenue in Ketchum. This cozy destination offers hearty breakfast fare in abundance in a space that showcases fun Western décor. They’re open from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm daily and once you’ve had your fill, it’s time to head out and explore the spring landscapes by bike. Spring comes with the options to pair a ski journey with a mountain biking outing and that’s just what you’ll do on day two. As the trails are beginning to dry out, you can put your mountain biking skills to work on the resort trails or take time to book a lesson instead for Sun Valley spring activities. The south-facing trails are ideal in the morning while all of the singletrack options are sure to thrill.
This afternoon, you’re going to slow things down after lunch and make your way to the scenic Sawtooth Botanical Gardens. This is the picture-perfect place to be in spring thanks to the blooming gardens and the fun bug zoo on-site for those who are traveling here with little ones in tow. Take pictures, stroll the trails, or just settle in on a bench and enjoy the view at your own pace.
This evening, grab a Happy Hour cocktail at the Duchin Lounge which is found in the lobby of the Sun Valley Lodge. Their open-air patio is sure to please, especially when there’s live music to enjoy too. You can stay for dinner and enjoy entrees like Idaho Ruby Red trout, rosemary, and parmesan meatloaf or beef tenderloin au Poivre if you choose. The sea scallops are delightful while the Chef’s cut and fresh catch is not to be missed.
Day 3
After a delicious breakfast enjoyed in the comfort of your vacation rental, day three of your spring journey has you heading out to the Silver Creek Preserve for a morning of fishing. An early morning outing is always a good choice because you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a tranquil sunrise over the water with a fishing pole in hand. Once you’ve had your fill of waterside fun, it’s time to lace up the hiking boots and go exploring Proctor Mountain Trail. This route takes you through the Sawtooth National Forest where you can enjoy birding, wildlife watching or just enjoying your forested surroundings at your own pace.
After lunch, head over to Pet Lane’s Mountain Sports and rent a bike for the afternoon. Today, you won’t be hitting the mountain trails, but instead, will focus on the paved pathways around Sun Valley Resort so you can soak up the sights in a more leisurely fashion. It’s refreshing to get fresh air and renting a bike means you can sightsee wherever and whenever you’d like. If you head out on the trails that run to the right of the resort, you’ll find yourself enjoying time at the Hemingway Memorial which leads towards Trail Creek.
Once you’ve finished your ride, it’s time to get a great view over Sun Valley by heading to the base of the ski mountain known and loved as Baldy. Purchase a lift ticket for the gondola and you’ll be well on your way to jaw-dropping panoramic vistas. This is a ride that’s suitable for passengers of all ages and might just be the highlight of your stay.
Tonight, grab a bite at Smoky Mountain Pizzeria and Grill at 200 Sun Valley Road. This popular pizza joint is open until 9:00 pm each evening and they serve up custom pizzas, wine, and beer in a space that hosts a fireplace and a game room too.
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Savor every second in Sun Valley in style when you book your vacation rental through Abode Sun Valley. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next trip!
