The best hikes in Idaho are the ones that beautifully showcase our state’s natural beauty. This moderate hike near Ketchum definitely succeeds in doing just that. Leading you around the side of Bald Mountain, past wildflowers and panoramic views of the city below, this trail is worth every step that it takes to complete. The best part? You’ll be led straight to a wooden bridge and scenic overlook where you can stop and take it all in.
Bald Mountain is a notable winter destination in central Idaho, as it is the primary mountain at Sun Valley Ski Resort. However, you'll soon see that this mountain is a great place to explore no matter the season.
The Bald Mountain Trail is just one of many trails on this gorgeous peak. Rated moderate with around 950-feet in elevation gain, it's definitely a good way to stretch your legs. You may work up a sweat when accomplishing this trail, but the incredible views make it worth every single drop.
You'll start the trek at the base area of the Sun Valley Ski Area. From here, the trail follows the Big Wood River before beginning its switchbacks up the side of the mountain.
Following the trail, you'll emerge from a shady, wooded area onto a grassy hillside that boasts the most breathtaking views of the valley below. The higher you go, the better the views are!
It isn't long before you arrive at an awesome scenic overlook that's perched on the side of the mountain. The wooden overlook was built by the Bureau of Land Management and, as you can imagine, it's the perfect place to stop for a rest before continuing on.
The overlook provides an awe-inspiring vantage point of both Ketchum and Sun Valley below. On a clear day, you'll even be able to see towards Hailey and Bellevue! It's almost like being on top of the world.
After reaching the overlook, you can choose to either head back down or continue to the top of Bald Mountain. The whole trail is about five miles, or 3.5 miles if you choose to cut the trek short after the scenic overlook.
