Great Runs in Sun Valley, ID

Note: For the Full Guide to Running in Sun Valley, see the GR Website

Sun Valley is a resort area in central Idaho, known for its skiing and year-round recreation opportunities. It’s adjacent to Ketchum and within the greater Wood River Valley, with the Sawtooth National Recreation Area just to the north. There are fantastic options for running in Sun Valley, including 30 miles of multi-use paths and 400 miles of trails, incorporating mountain views, sagebrush, and flower-filled meadows. Bald Mountain is the principal ski area, anchored by the famed Sun Valley Lodge. The Elkhorn area just to the south includes Dollar Mountain.

Best Road/Multi-Use Path Running Options: Our recommendations from among the 30 miles of paved, multi-use paths in the Sun Valley area, plus a selection of quieter roads that are great for running.

Wood River Trails: A good bet for a long, flat off-road run, this multi-use path is adjacent to State Highway 75 for 20 miles, starting just north of Sun Valley and passing through Ketchum, Gimlet, and Hailey, ending in Bellevue.

Sun Valley Trail Loop: A mostly paved path that runs alongside Elkhorn Rd. for 4.4 miles, with nice mountain views. Run any length, or our longer loop run that incorporates the entire Sun Valley Trail, then uses the Wood River Trails to head back north.

Easy to Moderate Running Trails: Sun Valley features an incredible wealth of trail running options with something for every ability. Our recommendations for an easy-to-moderate trail run of at least 3 miles, gleaned from the fab BCRD website.

White Cloud Trails: Great 4-mile loop skirting the White Clouds Golf Course, directly across from the Sun Valley Lodge. A gentle trail run that is hilly but not too steep, providing a good sense of the Sun Valley area. Good add-on options.

For the full running guide to Sun Valley, see greatruns.com.