Despite the relatively small size of the Wood River Valley, educational institutions abound, with sizes and styles for every type of learner. In addition to the eight public schools in the area (Hailey Elementary, Hemingway STEAM School, Wood River Middle School, Wood River High School, Alturas Elementary, Bellevue Elementary, Carey Public School, Silver Creek High School), there are also five schools providing what might be called “alternative education”: Sun Valley Community School, the Sage School, Syringa Mountain School, Pioneer Montessori School, and Trinity School. Read on to learn about each of their unique curriculums, founding, and the benefits of such educational models. Sun Valley Community School The only independent school in the Wood River Valley educating pre-K through 12th grade, the Sun Valley Community School was founded in 1973 and serves roughly 435 students. While small class sizes, excellent teachers, and robust academics contribute to the esteemed reputation of the school, it’s some of Community School’s unique programming, like their Outdoor Program, the Academies, and Boarding Program that make it so unique. The Outdoor Program has been a key component of the school since its founding over 50 years ago and is an integral part of every student’s experience throughout …
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Must-Have Travel Gadgets for Frequent Travelers
Traveling frequently requires the right gadgets to stay connected, entertained, and productive. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the right tools can make a significant difference in your comfort and convenience. Smart gadgets help reduce stress, keep your devices powered, and allow you to capture amazing moments effortlessly. Another important aspect of modern travel is staying secure online, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. For travelers who enjoy online casino gaming, ensuring a safe and private connection is essential. With the right gadgets, you can have a smooth and enjoyable journey without worrying about power issues, security risks, or missed opportunities to capture memories. Essential Tech Gadgets to Make Traveling Easier The right technology can make traveling more comfortable and efficient. A lightweight laptop or tablet is useful for work, entertainment, and staying in touch with loved ones. Wireless noise-canceling headphones provide a peaceful environment, whether on a plane, train or in a busy airport. For those planning trips to scenic destinations like Sun Valley, an e-reader is a great way to enjoy books without adding extra weight to your luggage. Smart luggage with built-in tracking and USB charging ports adds security and convenience to your journey. A universal …
24hrs with a Local : Spur Community Foundation Executive Director Sally Gillespie
Before eventually moving to the Sun Valley area in 1997, Spur Community Foundation Executive Director Sally Gillespie was living in Philadelphia, only dreaming of living out West on the many vacations she would take to this side of the country. But she eventually made her way to Idaho, working at the Nature Conservancy, Sun Valley Center for the Arts (now the Sun Valley Museum of Art), and consulting in the nonprofit world before starting the Spur Community Foundation. Founded in 2016, Spur Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire impactful philanthropy in the Wood River Valley by helping people give purposefully and helping local nonprofits achieve maximum impact. It is through this work that the organization helps maintain the culture and spirit of this community. Sally lives in Elkhorn and in her free time enjoys walking the local trails, Nordic skiing, and outdoor socializing with her friends or her children, ages 22 and 20, when they are home. Read on to learn more about her perfect August day in Sun Valley. How does your morning begin? Sally: I’m out the door for some kind of walk or activity as the sun’s still low in the sky and it’s nice and cool. …
Oktoberfest in Sun Valley: Raising a Stein in Honor of History
The Sawtooth Brewery presents the annual Oktoberfest celebration in the Ketchum Town Square every September.
Labor Day Weekend in Sun Valley, Idaho
The long Labor Day weekend has become a bit of a big deal here in Sun Valley, Idaho over the years. It’s a last summer hoorah as the kids begin to head back to school and the crisp temperatures of fall start to nip at our heels. With spirits running high and festivities plentiful, this is one long weekend that you won’t want to miss. To make the most out of the Labor Day weekend we’ve put together a list of all the best happenings. Wagon Days Rebecca’s Private Idaho Gallery Walk Sun Valley On Ice Lukas Nelson Find your next favorite Sun Valley Labor Day tradition this year! For the full line-up, head over to our events calendar. Events Calendar
What Not to Miss at the 28th Annual Trailing of the Sheep Festival
Aside from the brilliant transitioning leaves, The Trailing of the Sheep Festival is the highlight of Sun Valley’s fall season. Celebrating sheep and sheep herding traditions, Trailing of the Sheep offers a unique glimpse in to a part of Idaho’s past. Five days of dancing, music, wool classes, lamb dinners, sheep dog trials, and the famous Big Sheep Parade will tantalize the spectrum of senses.
Casinos and Nature: How High-End Gaming Fits into Scenic Destinations
Casinos are often associated with bright city lights, bustling crowds, and fast-paced energy. But a growing trend is proving that high-end gaming doesn’t have to be confined to urban landscapes. Around the world, luxury casinos are finding a place in breathtaking natural destinations, blending seamlessly with their surroundings and enhancing tourism appeal. From ski resorts to coastal retreats, high-end casinos are evolving into more than just gambling venues—they are becoming integral parts of exclusive travel experiences. The question is, could Sun Valley follow in the footsteps of these scenic gaming destinations while preserving its identity as a premier mountain retreat? The Global Trend: Luxury Casinos in Stunning Locations Several casino destinations around the world have successfully merged gaming with natural beauty, attracting high-end travelers who seek both entertainment and relaxation. One of the best examples is Punta del Este, Uruguay, often called the “Monaco of South America.” Nestled along the coast, this city is home to Enjoy Punta del Este, a world-class casino that attracts international tourists while maintaining the region’s pristine beachside charm. The casino is part of an integrated resort that offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and outdoor activities, making it a key driver of tourism. In the …
Cold Outside? These Movies Will Keep You Entertained
When the temperature drops and stepping outside feels like a challenge, the right movie can make all the difference. Whether you crave suspense, laughter, or an electrifying casino experience, there’s always something worth watching. From heart-racing thrillers to feel-good comedies, these films will turn a chilly evening into a memorable one. Grab your favorite blanket, settle in, and let’s explore some of the best picks for a cold day indoors. Best Movies to Watch When It’s Too Cold to Go Outside Nothing keeps you warm like a film that gets your heart racing. Thrillers bring tension, unexpected twists, and edge-of-your-seat moments. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo offers a chilling mystery, perfect for a cold evening. If you enjoy psychological tension, Gone Girl delivers with gripping performances and a storyline that keeps you guessing. These films pull you into their worlds, making the weather outside an afterthought. Action. Explosions, high-speed chases, and adrenaline-pumping scenes can make any dreary day feel exciting. Films like Mad Max: Fury Road and John Wick provide nonstop action that keeps your mind off the freezing temperatures. Watching these characters face impossible odds with raw determination can be just as thrilling as stepping into a casino …
24 Hours with a Local: Fit Me SV’s Kathryn Caminiti
A Ketchum local, Kathryn Caminiti (aka Kat) moved back to the Valley three years ago from Newport Beach, California, looking to get back to her small-town roots in the town she grew up in and where her parents and many of her friends still live. She began dabbling in pilates, eventually becoming certified and teaching classes at Zenergy before opening her own pilates studio, Fit Me SV, in March 2024. Kat envisioned not only having a dedicated pilates studio in Sun Valley, but one that taught classes that blended all the elements of her favorite workout classes into one: pilates, yoga, barre, spin, and Lagree. Already, in the short time the studio has been open, it’s been a hit, with her hiring on new instructors and herself teaching fifteen classes a week. Kathryn, who lives in west Ketchum with her boyfriend, Griffin, is just as active in her free time, spending it hiking, playing tennis, riding her bike, and rock climbing. Of course, she enjoys her downtime as well, whether that’s going to the symphony and dining on a charcuterie board, laying by the river or pool, or just chilling with friends. Check out Kat’s perfect July day in Sun …
What We’re Made Of: Sun Valley Pride
For several years now, Sun Valley Pride has joined the ranks of other meaningful Sun Valley events produced by and for locals, all in the name of providing community. In this case, that community is the LGBTQIA+ community, for which Sun Valley Pride provides a multi-day event full of performers, music, and fun. From what was once a modest singular event to now a full week of both paid and free activities, Sun Valley Pride draws attendees and performers from across the nation. How It Started What is now an entire week of Pride events started as just one: Pride in the Garden, at the nonprofit Sawtooth Botanical Garden (SBG). Executive Director Jen Smith had only been in her role for a few years when she suggested the Garden do a Pride event as a way to raise funds. As she says, they didn’t need to do another golf tournament or poker run like other organizations in the area had done as fundraisers. The board went wild, and the first Pride in the Garden event was held in 2021, which Jen describes as “a social justice event trying to bring awareness to the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies and to …
