Sun Valley, Idaho: A Day Hiker’s Haven
Ketchum and Sun Valley, Idaho are home to a plethora of breathtaking hiking trails that will undoubtedly leave outdoor enthusiasts in awe. The area, with its towering peaks, verdant forests, and shimmering lakes, provides the ideal backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. This article will explore the best hikes in Ketchum and Sun Valley, Idaho, providing detailed information about each trail’s length, difficulty level, and notable features.
Bald Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.5 miles (one way)
Time: 3-4 hours
Bald Mountain Trail is one of the most well-liked hikes in Sun Valley, Idaho. The trail is a six-mile loop that offers hikers a chance to admire stunning views of Ketchum as they traverse through scenic vistas, dense forests, and wildflower meadows. The trail is classified as moderate and takes between two and three hours to complete. The trailhead is situated at the River Run base area, and hikers can board a gondola to reach the mountain’s top.
Pioneer Cabin Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 8.6 miles (round trip)
Time: 7-9 hours (round trip)
The Pioneer Cabin Trail is a challenging hike that is well worth the effort. It is about a 9-mile round-trip hike that leads hikers to the Pioneer Cabin, a backcountry cabin built in the 1930s. The trail begins at the Corral Creek Trailhead and passes through lush meadows, alpine forests, and rocky outcroppings. The trail is rated as difficult and takes between up to 9 hours to complete. Once at the cabin, hikers can relax and enjoy a picnic while admiring stunning views of the Pioneer Mountains.
Baker Lake Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.6 miles (round trip),
Time: 4-5 hours (round trip)
The Baker Lake Trail is a lovely hike that leads hikers to the serene Baker Lake, a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. The trail is a 3.5-mile round-trip that traverses through a dense forest and over a babbling creek. The trail is classified as easy and takes between one and two hours to complete. Once at the lake, hikers can take a break and soak in the peaceful surroundings before returning down the trail.
Fox Creek Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.7 miles (round trip),
Time: 2-3 hours (round trip)
Fox Creek Trail is a moderate hike that follows Fox Creek through a scenic forested area. The trail is approximately 3.7 miles long and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This hike is open from June to October and is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the local wildlife, wildflowers, and fishing opportunities.
White Cloud Nine Trail
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Length: 3.7 miles (round trip),
Time: 2-3 hours (round trip)
The White Cloud Nine Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Sun Valley, Idaho. There is a 4.0-mile loop offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the White Cloud mountains.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy wildflowers, wildlife, and panoramic views of the surrounding area. The trail is typically open from June to October and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of Sun Valley.
