Sun Valley was the original destination ski resort. In 1936, when Sun Valley first opened its doors, there was nowhere else like it. Sun Valley built its legacy on ski racing and, more recently, big mountain skiing (even though most of the “big” lines only come in on the deepest of years). Although Sun Valley may not have the terrain or snowfall of Jackson, turn for turn it’s still one of the best resorts in the West.
People will hate on Sun Valley, but I’d suspect that those people have never really been there (at least on a good day). If you’re looking for steep, well manicured, hero-snow look no further than Warm Springs. For a more leisurely, sun baked run check out College- top to bottom. On blue bird powder days head straight for the bowls (it will be obvious where these are when the snow’s right, just follow the locals). For stormy days, check out the Frenchmen’s lift- awesome tree skiing, quick laps, and you’ll have the place to yourself on all but the busiest days.
Don’t be fooled by the anti-hype. Sun Valley is well worth the trip, if for no other reason than to après at Apple’s.
