Sun Valley Travel Planner

Aspens, empty trails, and reduced rates make Fall the ideal time to visit.

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In the fall, aspens outnumber cyclists along the 22-mile Wood River Trails system, which begins just outside of Ketchum and winds along the trout-filled Big Wood River.

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by Lisa Taggart

Autumn in always-sunny Sun Valley, Idaho sees few tourists. Days are warm, nights are cool � and rates drop at the area's otherwise pricey hotels and restaurants. Just ask the lucky locals � fall is the perfect time to visit.

Full story: Sun Valley's golden season

GETTING THERE

Sun Valley is 173 miles east of Boise. Bellevue, Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley compose the 20-mile-long Wood River Valley. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is 15 minutes north of Ketchum.

Hailey's Friedman Memorial Airport is the closest; those at Twin Falls and Boise are also good options. For more information, contact the Sun Valley Ketchum Chamber & Visitors Bureau (800-634-3347).

WHERE TO STAY

Boundary Campground (208-622-5371). Bring an extra sweater and sleep under the stars. 9 first-come, first-served sites; open through Oct; Sawtooth National Forest, Ketchum Ranger District.

Knob Hill Inn (800-526-8010; www.knobhillinn.com). The fanciest lodging in town has 26 large rooms and a traditional European motif. A short walk from shops.

Sun Valley Lodge and Inn (800-786-8259; www.sunvalley.com). A mile from Ketchum, the updated 148-room lodge, built in 1936, has French-country style, as does the 109-room inn.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Cavallino Lounge (380 N. Leadville Ave, Ketchum; www.cavallinolounge.com). Swank new martini bar has become the hot spot in town. Closed Sun-Mon.

Ciro Restaurant & Wine Bar (230 Walnut Ave, Ketchum; 208-727-1800; www.cirosunvalley.com). Wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and wine list rival any you'd find in the big city. $$.

CK's Real Food (320 S Main St, Hailey; 208-788-1223; www.cksrealfood.com). A little house turns out dynamite dishes featuring local produce, fresh fish, and organic meats prepared with a sophisticated touch. Nice wine list. $$$.

Java on Fourth Cafe (191 Fourth St W, Ketchum; 208-726-2882). Local morning hangout with bagels, pastries, and the Bowl of Soul, a cinnamon-chocolate-espresso concoction. $.