When skiers think of Idaho, Sun Valley Resort is likely the first place that comes to mind. The 2,000+ acres of skiable terrain include mellow groomers, intermediate runs, and expert-level chutes and glades. The resort is surrounded by distinct areas, each catering to different types of travelers. Dollar Mountain is ideal for first-time Sun Valley skiers, Ketchum offers historic charm just five minutes away, and Warm Springs provides quick access to Bald Mountain lifts. Sun Valley Village is a popular place to stay for its ski access, dining, and après-ski options.
Travelers have no shortage of options when it comes to Sun Valley vacation rentals either. From the luxury homes in Sun Valley Village to the incredible Bald Mountain views in Ketchum, the options are endless. We wrote this guide to help you choose the best place to stay in Sun Valley on your next visit.
Where to Stay Near Bald Mountain
Bald Mountain is where expert skiers come to play in Sun Valley. The large ski area features mostly intermediate and advanced runs with glades and chutes on the newly opened southern section of the resort. Families can find beginner-terrain in a few sections of Bald Mountain, which tends to be a bit less crowded than the other Sun Valley ski areas at Dollar Mountain.
The mountain has ski-in-ski-out resorts right at the base (technically a short walk), or you can choose to stay in a nearby town. Here’s a look at some places to stay in Bald Mountain.
Ketchum
Ketchum is a historic town that is older than Sun Valley. It started as a trapping and mining town in the 19th century and eventually became the go-to location for tourists visiting Wood River Valley. It has a bustling downtown with art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, and hotels.
If you are looking for easy access to wildlife and adventure with the best après-ski in the area, Ketchum offers exactly what you want.
Limelight Hotel
Conveniently located between Dollar Mountain and Bald Mountain, this luxury rental perfectly balances the warmth of a cabin with the class and elegance of a high-end contemporary hotel. Units at Limelight Hotel Ketchum range from small studios to 4-bedroom suites. Lucky travelers will be rewarded with stunning views of Bald Mountain.
Limelight Hotel Ketchum Property Amenities
- Hot Tub, Outdoor Heated Pool & Fitness Center
- Restaurant and Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Bike and Ski Equipment Rental, Ski Valet
- Underground Parking
The Lofts @ 660
Groups, families, and couples who want to feel like they’re right at home when visiting Sun Valley can stay at The Lofts @ 660. The apartment-style accommodations have everything you need, including a fireplace and a full kitchen with modern appliances. Some rooms face Bald Mountain, while others look down at the bustling streets of Downtown Ketchum.
The Lofts @ 660 Property Amenities
- Short walk to lifts, shopping, dining
- Ski Shuttle
- Covered Parking
Unwind in Ketchum
Located outside of downtown Ketchum on Warm Springs Road, this rental is a luxury log cabin in the woods. It’s not your typical rustic vacation rental. It has a private hot tub, walk-in showers, and a built-in fireplace to enjoy the sweeping mountain views in the cozy living room.
Unwind in Ketchum Property Amenities
- Private Hot Tub
- Gas Fireplace
- Washer & Dryer
- Full Kitchen
- Parking (4WD recommended)
Warm Springs
Warm Springs is your best bet if you want easy access to the lifts servicing Bald Mountain. Many of the rentals in this area are either a short walk or drive from what locals consider the best skiing in Idaho.
Prospector
Just steps from the Warm Springs lifts on Bald Mountain—this condominium has affordable rooms in a homey setting. It has a cabin-like feel, with exposed brick and lumber, and wood-burning fireplaces. A ski shuttle is available, but you’re close enough to walk to some of the best runs in Sun Valley.
- Common Hot Tubs & Outdoor Pool (seasonal)
- Walk to Lifts or Ski Shuttle
- Outdoor Parking
- Tennis Court (seasonal)
- Laundry (paid)
Winter Loft at Warm Springs
This luxury 2-bedroom Warm Srrings vacation rental features plenty of space for entertaining up to 6 guests. While it’s not ski-in-ski-out, it’s only a short drive to Bald Mountain. Amenities include a seasonal fire pit, gas fireplace, private jacuzzi, and modern kitchen.
Winter Loft at Warm Springs Property Amenities
- Private Hot Tub
- Washer & Dryer
- BBQ & Deck
- Short Walk to Lifts and Ski Shuttl
- Outdoor Parking
- Fitness Facility
Where to Stay Near Dollar Mountain
If you and your family are skiing Sun Valley for for the first time, Dollar Mountain is most likely where you’ll want to stay. The runs are predominantly green, with a few blues and one black diamond, when the experts in your family want to get a more challenging run in.
Elkhorn Village
Another popular area to stay in near Dollar Mountain is Elkhorn Village. It’s on the skier’s right side of Dollar Mountain, near mostly beginner terrain. The quieter atmosphere and access to green runs make this an excellent choice for families learning to ski together.
Bluff Condominiums
These accommodations are great for couples and families. The 1 or 2-bedroom condos fit between 2-4 people, and feature washers and dryers, full kitchens, and a living room with a fireplace and flat-screen TV. The accommodations are smaller but comfortable and offer one of the better values in Sun Valley.
Bluff Condominiums Property Amenities
- Common Hot Tubs, Sauna, Outdoor Heated Pool (offsite, seasonal)
- Laundry Facility
- Outdoor Parking
- Short Drive to Lifts
- Ski Shuttle
Fox Run Home
Traveling with a larger crew? This 5-bedroom home is perfect for big families or groups of friends to get together for meals, entertainment, and games after a day on the slopes. Guests love the close proximity to Dollar Mountain and amenities like a pool table, grill, and piano. Book early if you’re planning a holiday visit—this is a great place to gather during winter festivities.
Fox Run Home Property Amenities
- Pool Table, Piano
- Garage Parking
- Fire Places (gas and wood)
- Short Drive to Lifts
Sun Valley Village
Sun Valley Village is about a mile from the Dollar Mountain entrance at Sun Valley Ski Resort and is the most popular place to stay when visiting the area. Like Ketchum, Sun Valley Village offers plenty of après-ski, with many upscale choices for dining and lodging.
Snowcreek
The condominiums at Snowcreek are popular year-round, as all the outdoor adventure you can dream up is a short drive away. It is close to Sun Valley Ski Resort and Sun Valley Golf Course. There are 1, 2, and 3-bedroom lofts available to rent. All of the rooms have a warm but stylish aesthetic with exposed beam ceilings and a patio ideal the warmer months.
- Common Hot Tub
- Outdoor Pool (seasonal)
- Ski Shuttle
- Short Drive to Lifts
- Fireplaces (gas or wood, in unit)
Harriman Cottage
This luxurious home in Sun Valley was built for businessman and politician Averell Harriman. The views of Bald Mountain alone are worth a stay. It’s within walking distance to Sun Valley Village, but the 3,000-square-foot estate is excellent for hosting dinners and gatherings on-site. The 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom home has 3 TVs, a full kitchen, and 2 fireplaces to gather around.
Harriman Cottage Property Amenities
- BBQ & Patio
- Short Drive to Lifts
- Short Walk to Ski Shuttle
- Garage Parking
- Swimming pool (offsite)
Wildflower
Families and groups of up to 6 guests will appreciate how close this condominium is to Sun Valley Village. Guests have access to a pool and sauna, and a ski shuttle takes you to nearby Dollar Mountain. The cozy accommodation has a Western aesthetic with a beautiful stone hearth around a wood burning fireplace, with a hardwood mantle displaying racks of antlers.
- Common Hot Tub, Sauna, Outdoor Pool (offsite)
- Outdoor Parking
- Ski Shuttle
Book a Stay at Sun Valley
Sun Valley is an incredible year-round vacation destination for families, solo travelers, and couples. The resort, après-ski, and outdoor adventure are all easily accessible from the villages and towns nearby. Now that you know more about the area, it’s time to plan a trip to Sun Valley!
Deric Brown is a writer who has traveled domestically and internationally, writing about his journeys along the way. A storyteller at heart, he’s always looking at both the small details and the big picture. Whether snowboarding in the Sierra Nevada Mountains or hiking the Marin Headlands near his San Francisco home, he loves experiencing the beauty of California and beyond and writing about each solo adventure and family trip.