Galena Lodge - Image 1
1 / 3

Galena Lodge

4.8
·361 reviews·Ketchum, United States

Rustic lodge and electricity-free yurts offering snowshoeing, skiing, and dining in Idaho's scenic Sawtooth National Forest.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter Mornings

Fresh snow, pristine trails

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Galena Lodge - Image 1

Galena Lodge

Best Time

Winter Mornings

Fresh snow, pristine trails

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rustic lodge and electricity-free yurts offering snowshoeing, skiing, and dining in Idaho's scenic Sawtooth National Forest.

4.8
(361 reviews)

"Unforgettable experience! Loved the food, the beer and the atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Yurts in Advance

Popular yurts book up fast, especially for weekend stays. Plan ahead! :calendar:

Rent Gear Early

Snowshoes and skis can be rented, but reserve at least 12 hours ahead. :snowboarder:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Snowshoeing Adventures

Snowshoeing Adventures

Various Trails

Explore groomed trails with stunning views, suitable for all skill levels. Cowboy Cabin and Valley View are popular choices.

TikTokReddit
Cozy Yurt Stays

Cozy Yurt Stays

Yurt Village

Sleep under the stars in a unique, electricity-free yurt. A truly memorable rustic experience.

TikTok
Lodge Dining

Lodge Dining

Main Lodge

Enjoy delicious meals, from burgers to Cuban sandwiches, and warm drinks after your outdoor activities.

Reddit
Nordic Skiing

Nordic Skiing

Nordic Ski Trails

Hit the groomed trails for a classic or skate skiing experience. Perfect for winter fitness.

TikTok
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Galena Lodge is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, especially in winter. Be prepared for snow! Pack warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular, so consider renting equipment in advance or booking lessons. TikTok+1

Yurt Stays & Dining

Experience rustic charm by staying in one of their electricity-free yurts. Bookings are essential, especially for popular times. The lodge offers delicious dining options, including BBQs and hearty meals, perfect after a day in the snow. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Winter Mornings
Why
Fresh snow, pristine trails
Crowd
Low
When
Thursday Evenings
Why
BBQ and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring Afternoons
Why
Warmer weather, biking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

everyone else canceled their snowshoe tour but 20" ❄️ can't stop us #snowshoe #snowstorm #idaho #ketchumidaho #sunvalleyidaho #letsgo #whimsysoul #galenalodge #visitidaho
@whimsysoul
150 likes • 8.3K views

Book Yurts in Advance

Popular yurts book up fast, especially for weekend stays. Plan ahead! TikTokReddit :calendar:

Rent Gear Early

Snowshoes and skis can be rented, but reserve at least 12 hours ahead. Reddit :snowboarder:

Galena Lodge is great for the outdoor enthusiasts. Winter or in the spring, you will have a wonderful time at Galena Lodge. Visit the link to see what is on offer; lessons, rentals, trails, yurts, restaurant and lovely people! Also check out their live webcam https://www.galenalodge.com/ #galenalodge #idaholife #ketchum #sunvalleyidaho #ski #snowshoeing #beautifulsc...
@tiffanye46
7 likes • 154 views
Have you ever slept in a yurt in the snow? This is at Galena Lodge in Idaho. 🎥: Sami #idaho #galena #sawtooths #sunvalley #snowshoeing #idahowild
@perrinebridge
460 likes • 16.3K views

Trail Grooming Varies

South-side trails might have less snow. Check conditions for best experience. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Cozy Up After Dark

Yurts are electricity-free; bring extra layers for chilly nights. Reddit :zzz:

First ski of the season at Galena Lodge, Idaho. Tour of the trip down Jenny’s Way. #nordicskiing #galena #idaho
@runjunkie
36 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Yurts in Advance

Popular yurts book up fast, especially for weekend stays. Plan ahead! TikTokReddit :calendar:

Rent Gear Early

Snowshoes and skis can be rented, but reserve at least 12 hours ahead. Reddit :snowboarder:

Trail Grooming Varies

South-side trails might have less snow. Check conditions for best experience. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Cozy Up After Dark

Yurts are electricity-free; bring extra layers for chilly nights. Reddit :zzz:

Don't Miss the Fries!

The cheeseburger, grilled cheese, and bratwurst are great, but the fries are a must-try! Reddit :fries:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(361 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Galena Lodge's beautiful snowshoeing and skiing trails, with many praising the well-groomed paths and stunning mountain views. The unique yurt stays and delicious lodge dining, especially the fries, are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects of the experience. Some minor drawbacks include narrow trails for advanced skiers and potential cold in yurts if not managed well.

"Great Snowshoeing trails and rentals too!
We did Cowboy Cabin and Valley View trails. They were well groomed and had good amount of snow. Valley View trail has the best views among these two, and Cowboy Cabin trail is relatively flat.
Trails on the south side had more dirt on them than snow."

Prakash Patil

"Unforgettable experience! We stayed at the honeymoon yurt for one night and had the Thursday evening BBQ. We loved the food, the beer and the atmosphere. Using the landline to make a phone call was really cool (even though the person we tried to call didn't pick up). We also did horseback riding and rented bikes. The only downside was freezing at night and the bed was not very comfy. Other than that totally recommend it! p.s.:They also have coffee worth drinking."

Adueze Anamaria

"Stayed at the Honeymoon Yurt for a few days, loved being able to ditch the car for 3 days and just ride in and out of the yurt. We received awesome trail recommendations at the bike shop and the cheeseburger, grown up grilled cheese and beer bratwurst were delicious!! Particularly the fries! Will be back!"

Gwénaëlle d'Aumale

What People Like

Beautiful snowshoe trails
Delicious lodge food
Unique yurt stays

What People Dislike

Narrow trails
Cold in yurts

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Galena Lodge is located in the Sawtooth National Forest, accessible by car. The journey itself can be scenic, with mountain passes and lake views. TikTok It's about 25 miles north of Ketchum, Idaho. During winter, snow conditions can affect road access, so always check local road reports before you go. TikTok

Yes, Galena Lodge is a popular winter destination. Access is typically maintained, but snow tires or chains might be necessary depending on the weather. TikTok+1

The closest major airport is Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey, Idaho, which is about a 45-minute drive from Ketchum. Boise Airport (BOI) is a larger option, about a 3-hour drive away. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Galena Lodge. During peak winter season, it can get busy, so arriving earlier is recommended. TikTok

While there isn't direct public transportation to Galena Lodge, local shuttles operate in the Sun Valley area that can get you to Ketchum, from where you might arrange further transport or drive. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the lodge itself is generally free, but you will need to purchase trail passes for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing if you don't have a season pass. Rentals and lessons also have separate fees. TikTok

Operating hours can vary seasonally. In winter, the lodge and rental shop are typically open daily. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours of operation. TikTok

Trail access for snowshoeing usually requires a day pass. Rental costs for snowshoes and poles are additional. Prices can be found on the Galena Lodge website. Reddit

Yes, Galena Lodge offers rentals for snowshoes, cross-country skis, and mountain bikes. It's recommended to reserve rentals in advance, especially during busy periods. TikTokReddit

Galena Lodge offers guided snowshoe tours and lessons for various skill levels. These are a great way to learn about the area and improve your technique. TikTok+1

🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience

Galena Lodge is a hub for outdoor recreation. Popular activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, Nordic skiing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. They also offer yurt stays and dining. TikTokReddit+3

Yes, many of the trails, especially for cross-country skiing and popular snowshoe routes, are well-groomed. However, conditions can vary, and some trails might be narrower or have less snow depending on the season and location. Reddit

Staying in a yurt is a unique, rustic experience. They are electricity-free and offer a cozy retreat after a day outdoors. Some yurts are equipped with wood stoves for warmth. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Galena Lodge offers lessons and has trails suitable for beginners in both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The staff are helpful in recommending appropriate routes. TikTokReddit

You can expect beautiful mountain scenery, especially from trails like Valley View. The lodge is situated in a picturesque setting within the Sawtooth National Forest. Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

Galena Lodge offers a full-service restaurant with hearty meals, including burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials. They are known for their delicious fries and comfort food. Reddit

Yes, there is a lodge restaurant that serves lunch and sometimes dinner, especially during special events like their Thursday evening BBQs. Reddit

While specific menus can change, the lodge often has options that can be adapted. It's always a good idea to inquire with the staff about dietary needs. Reddit

Travelers rave about the fries, the cheeseburger, the grown-up grilled cheese, and the beer bratwurst. They also serve good coffee. Reddit

Yes, the lodge restaurant serves a selection of beers and other beverages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Valley View trail offers panoramic mountain vistas perfect for photos. The rustic yurts and the lodge itself also make for charming shots, especially with snow. Reddit

Absolutely! Winter landscapes offer unique photographic opportunities with snow-covered trees and mountains. Golden hour light can be particularly stunning. TikTok

For winter photography, a camera that handles cold well is essential. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for wildlife if you're lucky. Extra batteries are crucial as cold drains them quickly. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, always be respectful of other visitors and private property. For commercial photography, it's best to inquire with the lodge management. TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, especially in the snow. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Galena Lodge is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor fun. The snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails offer activities suitable for various ages and abilities. TikTokReddit Consider renting snowshoes, as they are easy to use and allow kids to explore the snowy landscape. The lodge restaurant offers kid-friendly options like burgers and fries, making meal times easy. Reddit

For a unique overnight experience, staying in a yurt can be an adventure in itself for children, offering a taste of rustic living. TikTokReddit While the yurts are electricity-free, the novelty of sleeping in a cozy, heated space surrounded by nature can be very exciting for kids. Ensure you pack extra warm clothing and entertainment for evenings. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Galena Lodge offers a range of services, it can be enjoyed on a budget. Packing your own snacks and drinks can help save money on food, though the lodge's meals are generally considered good value for the quality. Reddit Look for rental package deals if you plan on participating in multiple activities. Reddit

Focusing on self-guided exploration of the snowshoeing and skiing trails can be very cost-effective. Many trails are accessible with just a trail pass, which is typically less expensive than guided tours or lessons. Reddit Consider visiting during off-peak times if possible, as some services might have slightly lower rates. TikTok

💑 Couples Retreat

Galena Lodge offers a wonderfully romantic escape, especially with its cozy yurt accommodations. TikTokReddit Imagine a quiet evening by the wood stove in your yurt, followed by a day of exploring scenic trails together. The lodge's dining options, particularly the Thursday BBQ, provide a great atmosphere for a shared meal. Reddit

Enjoy activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing hand-in-hand, taking in the breathtaking winter scenery. TikTok+1 The rustic charm and natural beauty of the location create a perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Winter Activities at Galena Lodge

Galena Lodge is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Snowshoeing is incredibly popular, with trails like Cowboy Cabin and Valley View offering varying terrain and stunning scenery. TikTokReddit For those who prefer gliding, cross-country skiing and Nordic skiing are excellent options, with many miles of groomed trails catering to both classic and skate skiers. TikTok The lodge provides rentals and lessons for these activities, making it accessible for all skill levels. TikTok

Beyond skiing and snowshoeing, the lodge offers a unique yurt experience. These rustic, electricity-free accommodations provide a cozy escape into nature. TikTokReddit Imagine waking up surrounded by snow and then heading out for a day of adventure. The lodge also features a sauna, perfect for warming up after a day in the cold. TikTok

Planning your winter visit is key. Be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts, as snow levels can impact accessibility and trail quality. TikTok Booking yurt stays and equipment rentals in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

The Galena Lodge Yurt Experience

For a truly memorable stay, consider booking one of Galena Lodge's yurts. These are not your typical camping tents; they offer a comfortable and unique way to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. TikTokReddit Each yurt is electricity-free, providing a rustic and unplugged experience. They are heated by wood stoves, ensuring warmth even on the coldest nights. Reddit

Staying in a yurt allows you to ditch the car and truly disconnect. You can ride your skis or snowshoes directly to and from your yurt. Reddit While the experience is rustic, it's also incredibly charming. Waking up to the quiet beauty of the snow-covered landscape outside your yurt is an unforgettable part of the Galena Lodge adventure. TikTok

Booking a yurt requires advance planning, as they are a popular accommodation option. Reddit It's an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone looking for a unique lodging experience away from the ordinary. Remember to pack warm layers, as the yurts are unheated when the wood stove isn't actively burning. Reddit

Dining Delights at Galena Lodge

After a day of outdoor activities, the dining options at Galena Lodge are a welcome treat. The main lodge features a restaurant that serves up hearty and delicious meals. Reddit Travelers frequently praise the quality of the food, with specific mentions of their burgers, the 'grown-up grilled cheese,' and the beer bratwurst. Reddit

A standout item that receives consistent acclaim is the fries. Many reviewers highlight them as exceptionally good, making them a must-try when you visit. Reddit The lodge also offers warm drinks and desserts, like an almond flour chocolate chip cookie, perfect for a cozy afternoon break. Reddit For a special experience, consider attending their Thursday evening BBQ, which is noted for its great food, beer, and atmosphere. Reddit

Whether you're refueling after a strenuous ski session or enjoying a relaxed lunch, the food at Galena Lodge provides a satisfying culinary complement to the outdoor adventures. Reddit They also serve good coffee, which is always a plus! Reddit

You may also like