Sun Valley, Idaho Events

10th Mountain Division
During the early phases of World War II, the army made seven ski training films at Sun Valley, which included several of Sun Valley's ski instructors. These films were designed to bring recruits to the 10th Mountain Division, a division formed for mountain warfare. The 10th Mountain skiers better known as "The Ski Troops," pushed the Germans from the mountains of Italy and were instrumental in ending World War II. Many veterans of the brave, dedicated ski troops were instrumental in skiing's postwar boom.

Don and Gretchen Fraser Exhibit
Both Don and Gretchen Fraser were well-respected Olympic skiers. In 1948, during the first postwar Olympics, Gretchen won the gold medal in slalom and the silver medal in the alpine combined event. She was the first American skier (male or female) to win an Olympic Gold Medal. Don and Gretchen Fraser were truly remarkable people who reached out and touched many lives. This exhibit remembers them for their commitment to the development and enjoyment of winter sports, their sponsorship and training for young athletes, their advocacy of the physically challenged, and their unwavering support of the Special Olympics.

Early Skiing
Ski equipment and clothing from the 1800's to present day are on permanent display. Many people do not realize that the early residents of Ketchum skied. Miners brought skis they had used in the California Sierras during the 1850's. In the 1880's mail was carried over Galena Summit to the gold mines at Sawtooth City and Vienna. Most skis were handmade of wood, up to lengths of 10 feet. A single, long pole was used for stability, for dragging to slow down on a steep slope, and for poling. Skiing was not only for work-related travel, but also used by both men and women for pure enjoyment.

Elkhorn Golf Club
A Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed 18-hole championship golf course is the jewel of the Elkhorn Golf Club. The club itself was renovated and after 18 months of construction, it features impeccable service, first-class amenities and the finest playing conditions.

Explore the Town of Sun Valley
Sun Valley offers a variety of shopping and dining options from ski gear to sundries and from casual dining to elegant meals. Local food and wine festivals take place throughout the year, and the shops of Ketchum and Sun Valley offer a unique assortment of art, clothing, books, souvenirs and more year-round.

Notes: Things to Do

Hike or Bike Bald Mountain
The world famous ski mountain is now open all summer long for hikers and bikers to experience the rugged beauty of the landscape. Nearly 28 miles of trails will challenge even the most experienced mountain biker.

Notes: Things to Do

Jimmy Griffith
Jimmy Griffith was the first native-born Sun Valley ski racer to earn a berth on a U.S. Olympic ski team. Although he'd never had a formal lesson in his life, he was one of America's top Olympic hopes. While training for the 1952 Olympics, Jimmy was injured in a skiing accident and died from complications at the age of 22. This exhibit honors his memory.

Mining - Railroad - Sheep Ranching
The mining of silver and lead ore played a major role in the development of the Wood River Valley during the 1880's. The silver crash in 1894 took a heavy toll on the West. Mines and smelters were closed and Ketchum's population dropped 90%. The presence of the Oregon Shortline Railroad was key to the survival of Ketchum's economy in the aftermath of the crash, and those individuals who remained, watched Ketchum grow into the second largest sheep raising and shipping center in the world.

Ski Bald Mountain
Sixty-five runs criss-cross 2,054 acres and 3,400 vertical feet of terrain at the edges of the Sawtooth National Forest. For first-timers, Dollar Mountain is a teaching mountain just for beginners. And for "never-evers," the resort offers 14 daytime lodges for perfecting the art of relaxation.

Notes: Skiing, Things to Do

Stroll the Fairway in Sun Valley
Sun Valley's 18-hole golf course has been rated number one in Idaho by Golf Magazine and marries challenging play with the stunning scenery. A nine hole addition opens for the summer 2008 and promises a restaurant and bar, a pro shop and an indoor driving range.

Notes: Things to Do