Inside America’s First Destination Ski Town

Sun Valley, Idaho, is a renowned destination famous for its premier skiing and snowboarding. Beyond the slopes, it offers a unique blend of history and cultural experiences. Hollywood's elite have frequented the valley for decades, yet it maintains a laid-back, local atmosphere. Initially, the region attracted prospectors with silver discoveries in the 1870s. The Union Pacific Railroad chairman, Averell Harriman, conceived Sun Valley Resort in 1936 to boost rail traffic during the Great Depression. This resort introduced the world's first chairlift, inspired by banana pulley systems. The innovation made skiing more accessible and attracted celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Ernest Hemingway. Today, Sun Valley Village retains its glamorous essence with a friendly vibe and activities like ice skating and film screenings. The area also boasts diverse dining options, from rustic homestyle eateries to contemporary cuisine. Cultural offerings include the Sun Valley Museum of Art, the Sun Valley Film Festival, and a Food & Wine Celebration. Unique local traditions like the Trailing of the Sheep Festival and Wagon Days celebrate the region's heritage. Sun Valley provides a rich pocket of American history and cultural experiences for all visitors.