Sun Valley Lodge Idaho
Iconic historic lodge offering timeless elegance, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking mountain views year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh powder, fewer crowds
Sun Valley Lodge Idaho
Best Time
Fresh powder, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic historic lodge offering timeless elegance, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking mountain views year-round.
"Experience timeless elegance and stunning views at the legendary Sun Valley Lodge. "
🎯 Book in Advance
Secure your stay, especially during peak ski season, as rooms fill up quickly. :ticket:
🚗 Airport Shuttle Info
The Sun Valley Inn offers an airport shuttle; confirm details when booking. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Sun Valley Lodge
Main Lodge
Experience timeless elegance with spacious rooms, fireplaces, and a luxurious spa. A true icon of the American West.
Trail Creek Cabin
Near the Lodge
Enjoy outstanding food and drinks on a patio with a killer view. A must-visit for après-ski or a scenic meal.
Outdoor Heated Pool
Resort Grounds
A year-round oasis for relaxation, complete with a poolside café and cabanas for ultimate lounging.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elegance, Plan Your Stay
Navigating Sun Valley's Seasons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance
Secure your stay, especially during peak ski season, as rooms fill up quickly. :ticket:
🚗 Airport Shuttle Info
The Sun Valley Inn offers an airport shuttle; confirm details when booking. :bus:
🏊 Heated Pool Bliss
Enjoy the outdoor heated pool year-round, perfect for relaxing after a day of activities. :pool_8ball:
🍽️ Dining with a View
Don't miss Trail Creek Cabin for its delicious food and stunning patio views. :forkandknifewithplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance
Secure your stay, especially during peak ski season, as rooms fill up quickly. :ticket:
🚗 Airport Shuttle Info
The Sun Valley Inn offers an airport shuttle; confirm details when booking. :bus:
🏊 Heated Pool Bliss
Enjoy the outdoor heated pool year-round, perfect for relaxing after a day of activities. :pool_8ball:
🍽️ Dining with a View
Don't miss Trail Creek Cabin for its delicious food and stunning patio views. :forkandknifewithplate:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trails
Explore scenic trails with your furry friends; many are dog-friendly. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests often praise the Sun Valley Lodge for its historic charm, elegant ambiance, and beautiful mountain setting. The attentive staff and excellent dining experiences, particularly at Trail Creek Cabin, are frequently highlighted. However, some recent reviews mention concerns about maintenance, non-working amenities, and inconsistent room quality, suggesting a need for updates to match the luxury pricing. +1
"I recently visited the Sun Valley Lodge for lunch with my aunts while they were in town, and we had such a wonderful experience. We ordered the duck wings, fish and chips, and the special salad—everything was fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented.
The atmosphere is fantastic, with stunning views that made our meal feel extra special. The staff was attentive and welcoming, and we never felt rushed. It was the perfect spot to catch up and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Highly recommend if you’re in the area—can’t wait to come back!"
Donovan Soriano
"We have been coming here annually for several years. This trip was very different from past trips. We have always stayed at the lodge not the inn. These rooms go for several hundred dollars a night. When we pulled up, we were told we couldn't use the luggage cart because it was reserved. Ok.. we get to the room, it smelled strongly of wood smoke, we were near the patio of the lounge and it was loud and smokey from about 5pm to 9pm each night. The refrigerator was non working and either was the air conditioning (it was over 80 the day we arrived) there was no ice machines available, so I asked the front desk where it was and that the fridge was not working. They hauled in a huge mini fridge and it took a full day to come down in temp. Then froze everything. The beds used to be very comfortable, and the rooms and lobby well maintained. Not this trip. There was a fish smell from the pond and landscaping was not up to where it usually was. The convention we attended was a week earlier this year and by Monday the grounds were improving. Maybe im jaded to the beauty of the place, but a working fridge, no microwave, non working air-conditioning/heat and furniture that is showing age and use, just didn't impress me. Being told the luggage cart was reserved was over the top. The room service was 70 bucks for a hamburger and nachos. The housekeeping staff was excellent! And the tub i literally can float in its so big. I love the turn down service and the wool blanket on the bed is nice. The tvs are kind of small, Shower head was terrible with little pressure, and both pictures in our bathroom had chipped frames and a broken vanity mirror. But honestly they are not the only game in town anymore and there are other hotels that are worth the high cost in ketcum. I think SVL needs to realize that they have competition and people are noticing the lack of maintenance."
Skeeter Meyers
"This review is an attempt to provide constructive feedback and advocate for myself. Will be checking into the lodge Thursday. Had a negative experience working with the resort reservations this morning ending with staff hanging up on me. Then called the lodge and left a message for the MOD, was told they would call at 10am when they arrived. Now it is 4 hours past that time. I would be happy to continue working together to resolve my need if someone on the business’ end is willing to do their part."
Jake LeClair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The closest airport is Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey, about a 30-minute drive from Sun Valley Lodge. Many visitors opt to rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service. Some accommodations, like the Sun Valley Inn, offer airport shuttles, so it's worth checking when booking.
Yes, Sun Valley Lodge is easily accessible by car. The resort is located off Sun Valley Road. Parking is generally available for guests, though it's always a good idea to confirm specific parking arrangements with your accommodation.
Once you're in Sun Valley, getting around is quite convenient. The resort offers shuttle services, and many areas are walkable. For exploring further afield, consider renting a car or utilizing local taxi services.
While direct public transportation to Sun Valley can be limited, you can reach the nearby town of Ketchum via bus services from larger cities. From Ketchum, local shuttles or taxis can take you to the lodge.
The Sun Valley Inn, part of the Sun Valley Resort, typically offers an airport shuttle service. It's essential to confirm this service and book it in advance when making your reservation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Sun Valley Lodge itself and its common areas like the lobby and grounds does not require tickets. However, if you plan to ski or participate in specific resort activities, separate lift tickets or activity passes will be necessary.
The Sun Valley Lodge is a hotel and is open 24/7 for guests. However, specific amenities like restaurants, the spa, and shops within the lodge will have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the resort's official website for the most up-to-date information.
You can book a room directly through the official Sun Valley Resort website, by calling their reservations line, or through various online travel agencies. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak seasons.
Discounts can sometimes be found through package deals, seasonal promotions, or by booking through specific travel partners. Keep an eye on the resort's website and consider signing up for their newsletter for potential offers.
Cancellation policies can vary depending on the rate booked and the season. It's crucial to review the specific terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the lodge directly for clarification on their cancellation and modification policies.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Sun Valley Lodge offers a wide range of activities, including skiing and snowboarding in winter, golf and hiking in summer, as well as a full-service spa, fitness center, yoga studio, and an outdoor heated pool with a café. +1
Yes, Sun Valley Lodge is very family-friendly. It offers activities for all ages, from skiing and swimming to relaxing by the pool. The spacious rooms and amenities cater well to families traveling together.
The lodge features several dining options, including restaurants with beautiful views like Trail Creek Cabin, as well as casual cafés and lounges. Room service is also available. +1
Absolutely! Sun Valley Lodge boasts a full-service destination spa offering a variety of treatments, a fitness studio, and yoga classes, providing a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate.
While the lodge itself isn't directly ski-in/ski-out, it's part of the Sun Valley Resort, which provides easy access to the ski slopes. Shuttle services are often available to transport guests to the base areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lodge's historic architecture, the stunning mountain vistas, and the serene outdoor pool area. The patio at Trail Creek Cabin also offers picturesque views, especially during sunset. +2
Yes, Sun Valley Lodge is incredibly photogenic in winter, especially when dusted with snow. The classic architecture against a snowy backdrop creates a magical, postcard-worthy scene. +1
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant blue skies and snowy landscapes in winter, or the lush greenery in summer.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around resort areas for safety and privacy reasons. It's essential to check the specific regulations with the resort management before attempting to fly a drone.
Beyond the lodge itself, the surrounding mountains offer numerous iconic photo opportunities, especially during ski season or for summer hiking and biking. The historic charm of the lodge is a primary draw. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking rooms with fireplaces for an extra cozy touch. The resort often has activities geared towards families, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, allowing everyone to enjoy their vacation at their own pace.
💰 Budget Travelers
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) can also lead to lower accommodation rates. Exploring the natural beauty through hiking and enjoying picnics can be a cost-effective way to experience Sun Valley's charm without expensive activity fees.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a romantic dinner at Trail Creek Cabin with its stunning views, or relax together by the heated pool. The serene mountain setting provides a peaceful backdrop for couples looking to reconnect and enjoy each other's company.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of Sun Valley Lodge
Visitors often remark on the lodge's classic ambiance and the feeling of stepping back in time. While some reviews mention areas showing age and a need for maintenance, the core charm and historical significance remain a major draw. The lodge's architecture and its role in the development of ski tourism in America make it a unique destination.
For those seeking an authentic experience, staying at the main lodge offers the most immersive encounter with its storied past. The blend of historical character with modern amenities like a spa and fitness center aims to provide a comfortable yet nostalgic stay.
Winter Wonderland: Skiing and Snow Activities
Beyond downhill skiing, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing on scenic trails, ice skating, and other snow-related activities. The atmosphere during winter is magical, with the lodge and surrounding mountains often covered in a blanket of snow, creating a picturesque setting.
While the lodge itself isn't directly ski-in/ski-out, the resort provides convenient access to the slopes. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to experience the après-ski culture, enjoying warm drinks and good company after a day on the mountain.
Summer Serenity: Outdoor Pursuits
Golf is another major draw, with championship courses providing challenging play amidst breathtaking landscapes. The outdoor heated pool at the lodge becomes a central hub for relaxation and recreation during warmer weather, complete with a poolside café and cabanas.
The area is also perfect for scenic drives and exploring the charming town of Ketchum. The lodge's location provides easy access to these summer adventures, making it an ideal base for enjoying the natural beauty of Idaho.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit