The early season stoke is high at Sun Valley, where crowds of skiers are itching for their first fresh turns. Seeking views and food after tiring ourselves out on the slopes, we ride the chairlift all the way up 9,150-foot Bald Mountain to the resort’s iconic mountaintop lunch stop: Lookout Day Lodge.
While most of Sun Valley’s been revitalized with fancy facilities, Lookout Day Lodge keeps its retro vibes alive—never updating its classic wood-carved interior. Outside on the deck, unobstructed mountain views stretch around us while famished skiers dine inside at the affordable taco bar. It’s the kind of place locals know about, and we tourists are just lucky enough to find.
Marveling at the sights from atop this bald peak, it’s easy to see what brought Hollywood stars and Hemingway here in the 1930s. And after nearly 100 years running, Idaho‘s ski industry is just getting started.
Whether you’re a powder player or steep and deep enthusiast, come visit Idaho’s uncrowded ski areas and hang your hat at these outstanding nearby hotels. From historic lodges and cozy cabins to all-new boutiques, you’ll enjoy where you stay as much as where you ski.