Last summer, we ventured into the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho and explored the town of Sun Valley. We were not disappointed. As a result, this summer, we headed back to the Sawtooth Range and back to Sun Valley. Again, we were not disappointed.
We are drawn to these jagged peaks, the Sawtooth Mountain Range.
Although there are countless beautiful condos and hotels, we opted to camp for five nights in a campground outside of town. We set up our camper in a secluded spot backing the Big Wood River and then let the adventures begin.
Our campsite was nice and private. Perfect to cuddle up with the pup!
We wanted to revisit some of our old favorite stomping grounds, but we also wanted to expand our horizons and have a few new experiences. Let’s start with the old favorites…
1. Leroy’s Ice Cream – Anyone who goes to Sun Valley MUST try Leroy’s Ice Cream in the heart of town. Not only is the ice cream delicious, the money goes towards a good cause. Every time I go there, I find myself ordering the same thing, root beer ice cream. I think this is for two reasons: 1.) You can’t order root beer ice cream just anywhere. 2.) They NAILED it – it tastes just like a root beer float!
The best ice cream EVER can be found at LeRoy's.
2. Dinner at the Sun Valley Inn – We love their burgers and their coconut shrimp. We also love to order escargot from The Ram. Even our five year old loves to eat the pesto covered escargot – it is a real treat! Afterwards, the kids love playing in the gondola!!
Getting ready for ski season!
3. Ice Skating at the resort – or at least, watching other’s ice skate 
Of course, we must try new things too…
1. Norton Lakes – Last year we hiked up to Baker Lake, a beautiful lake just outside town. This year we wanted to see even more terrain and se opted to hike to Norton Lakes. I was so proud of my kids – at 3 and almost 5 years old, they were able to hike all 5 miles without any problems. As long as the snacks kept coming, they were as happy as can be.
Norton Lakes...yes, there were fish there, too!
2. Dog Park – Sun Valley doesn’t have an official dog park, but they have the BEST unofficial dog park I’ve ever been too. I will always be thankful to the woman at the Visitor’s Center who directed us towards it. As owners of a Weimaraner, no amount of hiking will ever suffice…she needs more, more, more exercise.
The best unofficial dog park - our pup is now spoiled, since no other dog park can compare!
3. Grumpy’s – I know, it is a landmark in Sun Valley – as it should be. They have the best burgers, a great beer selection, and a fun atmosphere. We did laundry while we had a burger and drank a beer. Yes, they have a Laundromat, too!! Can’t wait to head back to Grumpy’s in the winter for our après-ski!!
We spent 5 nights, 6 days at Sun Valley. While hiking, dining, and shopping took up a bit of our time, we also spent hours each day fishing and sitting around the campfire.
We love fishing - the fish were biting, too!
There’s nothing better than throwing a steak on the grill after a busy day and following it up with a chocolaty s’more.
Chateau Briand - so yummy on the grill!
My five year old has already said he wants to go back to Sun Valley for a week next summer. I think we’ll likely make that happen!!
Mountain Mama Marathoner!!
