Valley View Loop

There is no water on this route. Though the climb is moderate, much of the hike is in the sun, so keep some water handy.

For those not staying at the Sun Valley Lodge, it is a 1.5-mile mile drive from downtown Ketchum to the Village parking lot. To reach the trailhead, cross Trail Creek Road at the main driveway entrance into the Sun Valley Lodge.

May through October

From the Sun Valley Lodge, follow the main driveway that leads to the Trail Creek Road and use the crosswalk that leads to the large trailhead sign. Keep that sign to your left and come to two intersections within the first 65 feet. The second junction is signed. Stay right at both. The second intersection is where you will eventually reconnect to complete the loop.

The trail rises gently as it parallels Trail Creek Road, with Sun Valley’s lodge and village to your right. At .22 miles, come to a junction and veer left to take the high road.

As you continue to climb, the distinctive ridge of Ruud Mountain is to your right and the difficult third hole of the White Clouds golf course is on the hill directly in front of you. The trail continues to wind along the open hillside, climbing as it goes. There are solid views of Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain as you pass the half-mile mark. The trail levels as you pass a lone bench at .7 miles and shortly afterwards begins to descend. The Sun Valley Lodge now sits below and to your left.

At 1.1 miles, come to a signed junction with the White Clouds Trail, which is an excellent option for those looking to add a few more miles. To stay on the Valley View Loop, stay left.

At 1.25 miles, come to another bench and a jumble of intersections. Stay left at each to continue the descent.

Each step brings you closer to Trail Creek Road and you will complete the loop by reconnecting with the beginning of the trail close to the trailhead sign.