beachLIFE 2021 Issue 15 | Page 85

SUN VALLEY
Being off the beaten path has its perks . Last season ( 2020 – 2021 ), Sun Valley Ski Resort was ranked the number one ski resort in the West by SKI Magazine . What makes it so attractive ? It ’ s remarkably uncrowded and gorgeous terrain , along with a lift capacity that allows skiers and boarders plenty of space to shred . And the skiable acres have only grown with the recent ribbon-cutting expansion of 380 additional acres . The fly-fishing is extraordinary , as is the outdoor ice skating . The 400 miles of single-track and 30 miles of paved trails make it a paradise for hiking , biking and horseback riding . As they say , you ’ ll exhaust yourself before you exhaust your options .
Over a century ago , nearby Ketchum gained fame for its healing hot springs . The Guyer Hot Springs Resort was popular for its mineral waters , croquet and tennis , while the town itself offered 13 saloons .
Later , the area became a celebrity favorite . Ernest Hemingway fell in love with Sun Valley and eventually made it his home , while Clark Gable , Gary Cooper and Ingrid Bergman came to the winter wonderland to play .
THE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP FEATURE beachLIFE 83