When spring in Sun Valley, Idaho has begun to sprung, with some days convincing you summer is right around the corner, with the sun shining down and the layers coming off, only to have the cold chill of winter come back with a vengeance just a few days later. There’s snow in some spots, mud in others, and a whole lot of unpredictability. But while it may feel a bit murky in this in-between time, it also opens up the opportunity for packed multi sport days, if you’re willing to find the right place and time for each one.

Spring in Sun Valley, Idaho is one of the few places in the country where you can ski & snowboard, hike, and fly fish,all in a single day. From casting a line on one of the nearby waterway to skiing Bald Mountain and hiking in Hailey, this guide shows you exactly how to plan the perfect spring multi-sport day.

Spring Skiing on Bald Mountain

With the morning spent on the water, the temps have had a chance to warm up a bit and it’s time to head to Bald Mountain in Ketchum for some spring skiing on Bald Mountain where you’ll likely find warm sunny skies, live music, frosty beverages. While a powder day is a skier’s dream, spring skiing in Sun Valley is pretty unbeatable, with the sun shining down, skiers and snowboarders donning fun outfits to celebrate the warmer temperatures, the snow turning slushy, and the après scene popping off at both lodges at the bottom of Baldy. If you’re coming straight from your fishing excursion, you’ll want to visit the Warm Springs side of Bald Mountain. Get in a few slushy laps, and when it’s time for a break, treat yourself to a lodge beer to enjoy on the pavers (as locals refer to the bricked patio area outside) or head to next-door establishment Apple’s, known for their après scene with bands, outdoor fire pits, pitchers of beer, and all-around stoke.

Early Season Hiking in Hailey

For the last leg of your three-sport day, you’ll want to head down to Hailey, where temps are warmer and the snow tends to melt quicker in the season, giving you access to early season hiking, while to the north, hills may still be covered in snow. One of the first hikes to become available each season is also an iconic one in this south Valley town, and that’s Carbonate. This 3.7-mile loop is located right in town, next to Hop Porter Park. There are two ways up, either through gentle switchbacks or a more direct route, though be warned that the latter will give you a workout akin to a Stairmaster. Though the hike is short, you’ll gain a cool 1,350 feet of elevation, giving you gorgeous views of town from the top. Other spots to check out include Quigley Canyon & Croy Canyon. Check out the Blaine County Recreation District trail report website for the latest updates on what is accessible.

Fly Fishing the Big Wood River & Silver Creek

There’s always good fly fishing to be had in the Wood River Valley, though where to go depends on when you’re visiting, as the period before Memorial Day Weekend tends to be closed for certain areas. If visiting prior to April 1, do yourself a favor and access any of the numerous public easement spots for accessing the Big Wood River. You’ll find signs posted in both Ketchum and Hailey that advertise where public river access lies, and from there, the fishing is fair game! April 1 through Memorial Day, the majority of the Big Wood is closed, however, and while the Silver Creek Preserve is also closed until Memorial Day Weekend, parts of it can be accessed year-round, from the Highway 20 bridge (near milepost 187) to the preserve’s confluence with the Little Wood, which is likely where you’ll want to head to get in some breathtaking views, still waters, and biting fish. Silver Creek is a world-class trout stream fishery, and given the off-season time of year for fishing there, there’s a good chance you’ll have the place (and the fish) to yourself. There’s good surface activity in the afternoons, so head down after you’ve finished your hike in Hailey, slowly making your way down Valley throughout the course of your triple-sport afternoon.

Check out this link for Fly Fishing Resources which includes information on guided services/outfitters, fishing reports, and regulation details.

Additional Sun Valley Spring Resources

For other spring outdoor activity inspiration, check out the following blogs:

• Best Early Season Mountain Bike Rides in Sun Valley
• Best Hikes to Catch the Blooming Wildflowers in Sun Valley
• Maximizing Shoulder Season in Sun Valley

Looking for other things to do in the Sun Valley area? Be sure to scope our events calendar.

FAQs:

• Can you ski, fish, and hike in the same day in Sun Valley?
  • You definitely can ski, fish, and hike all in the same day during Spring in Sun Valley, Idaho.
  • If you’re looking to mix things up, there typically are also mountain biking and gravel biking opportunities available. The Blaine County Recreation District has a great trail reporting resource to inform you on what is and isn’t open. Depending on the snow pack, there might even be a golf course open. Check out Sun Valley Golf Courses or the Big Wood Golf Course.
• When does fishing season start in Sun Valley?
  • The fly fishing season in the Sun Valley area is subject to the waterway that you’re looking to fish.
  • Silver Creek Preserve and the Big Wood River are closed from April 1 – the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
  • Check in with Silver Creek Outfitters for tips on what is and isn’t open.
• What hikes are open in Sun Valley in spring?
  • The hiking trails in the Sun Valley area are subject to the seasonal changes. Check out the Blaine County Recreation District trail report website for the latest updates on what is accessible.
  • If you come across a trail that is muddy, we ask that you turn around and head back the way you came. Hiking and biking through muddy trails can create permanent damage.

Author: Hayden Seder