Traveling allows people to explore new places, experience different cultures, and enjoy unforgettable moments. However, it also comes with a responsibility to protect the environment, respect local communities, and support sustainable tourism. Responsible travel ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the world without harming it. If you want to make a positive impact while traveling, here are some key ways to do so. Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation The way you travel affects the environment in many ways. Airplanes contribute significantly to carbon emissions, which harm the planet. Choosing trains, buses, or shared rides whenever possible is a more eco-friendly option. For shorter distances, walking or biking is a great way to explore while reducing pollution. Travelers renting cars can opt for electric or hybrid vehicles to minimize their environmental impact. Public transport is another smart choice. Many cities have efficient metro or bus systems that help reduce traffic and emissions. Not only does this lower your carbon footprint, but it also allows you to experience the destination like a local. Support Local Communities Tourism can bring economic benefits to local communities, but only if travelers make conscious decisions. Staying in locally owned hotels, dining at family-run restaurants, and …
Searching for Sun Valley
24 Hours with a Local: The Wylde Beet’s Sloan Storey
Growing up in Sun Valley instilled both a love of the outdoors and a love for plant-based foods in Sloan Storey, both of which she incorporates into her life on a daily basis as the owner of The Wylde Beet café in Hailey. After leaving the Valley to get degrees in health education and community, Sloan worked on multiple farms and moved back to the area in 2017, eventually working for the Hunger Coalition and cementing her passion for providing local, sustainable food to her community. She channeled that passion into opening her own food truck in 2023, The Wylde Beet, serving up affordable, plant-based food using as sustainable and local ingredients as possible. In early 2024, she and her team opened a brick-and-mortar Wylde Beet on Main Street in Hailey, where it continues to serve affordable, plant-based food and serve as a space for fun events, local merchandise, and great eats. Sloan and her boyfriend, Sage, live in Hailey with their two dogs, Raglin and Bruneau. When she’s not working at the café, she’s hiking with her dogs, Nordic or backcountry skiing, mountain biking, or doing anything outside with friends or her three nephews. We caught up with Sloan …
What We’re Made of: Sonic Boom
While many businesses over the years have sold a smattering of records (and back in the day, shops like Twist n Trout and Big Bad Bills sold CDs), the Wood River Valley has never had a dedicated record store selling vinyl (at least not in my lifetime). But Mike Pitts, owner of Sonic Boom in Seattle and now Sun Valley, has opened the doors to Ketchum’s newest record store, peddling new and used vinyl, as well as tapes and CDs, to all manner of music lover in the area. The History It was a bit of a journey for Mike to make his way to the music industry. While he had been buying records from Sonic Boom since he was a teenager, Mike had been operating a real estate company with his brother-in-law for ten years when Sonic Boom was listed for sale, in 2016. Luckily, his supportive wife, who knew how miserable Mike was in the real estate game, called and told him he was quitting his job and figuring out how to purchase Sonic Boom and make it work. So he did, and soon he was the owner of an establishment that had been an integral part of …
Essential Gear for Your Mountain Town Adventure
Exploring a mountain town is an exciting experience, but the right gear is key to staying comfortable and prepared. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, enjoying snowy slopes, or simply taking in the fresh air, having the right essentials can make your trip much smoother. From weatherproof clothing to tech gadgets, knowing what to pack will keep you safe and ready for anything. This guide covers the most important items to bring on your mountain town adventure, including clothing, footwear, safety gear, and even power solutions. Read on to ensure you’re fully equipped for your trip! Reliable Footwear Wearing the right shoes is essential for a comfortable mountain town adventure. Hiking boots with sturdy soles and waterproof material provide the grip and support needed for rough trails, ensuring safety on uneven terrain. Thick, moisture-wicking socks help keep feet warm and dry, preventing discomfort from sweat or cold temperatures. For casual walks around town, lightweight sneakers offer a comfortable option without sacrificing style or support. If biking is part of your plan, consider cycling shoes with good traction and flexibility for both pedaling and walking. Choosing the right footwear not only prevents blisters and fatigue but also allows you to enjoy every …
24 hrs with a Local: Professional Paraglider Gavin McClurg
If you’re like me and know nothing of the world of professional paragliding, you may ask yourself why a paraglider with accolades like being National Geographic’s 2015 “Adventurer of the Year” and who’s sponsored by Patagonia, Garmin, Smith Optics, and more would live in Sun Valley, Idaho. As it turns out, Sun Valley is world famous for its paragliding, with all the nation’s paragliding records set here. Gavin moved to Sun Valley in 2012, after spending fifteen years sailing around the world, and promptly set the record for longest flight in the US from a mountain in 2013 by flying from the top of Baldy to Canyon Ferry Lake in Montana. A lifelong adventurer, Gavin has been featured in films like Red Bull’s The Rockies Traverse, TGR’s LOCALS, and many more; operated a net-zero carbon offshore sailing/kitesurfing expedition for many years; and has had several first descents in kayaking in Central America. Gavin still loves to adventure, whether that’s flying or backcountry skiing (he’s been skiing since growing up ski racing in Lake Tahoe), but he’s also a family man now, with he, his wife Mattie Mulick (a trainer at the YMCA), daughter Fallon (age 7) and their rescue dog …
What We’re Made of: Alternative Education
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 …
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. …
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 …