Made famous for its winter skiing, Sun Valley becomes a nature lover's paradise in the summer, offering abundant recreation that doesn't involve ear muff wearing freaks named Biff and Millie sipping hot cocoa in front of the fireplace at the lodge after a day on the slopes.
Here are some summer activities to look forward to in Sun Valley:
HIKING Remember when you were a kid and dreamed of frolicking amid mountain streams and alpine lakes? Whether you are looking for a few hours of strolling or an overnight backpacking adventure, Sun Valley's got a trail to make all your childhood hiking dreams come true.
HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES Why enjoy the scenery from the ground when you can enjoy it from the sky? Since nothing screams safety like hot air balloons and alcohol, most rides provide a champagne brunch. Most balloons accommodate four riders. Advance reservations are recommended.
GOLF If swearing at a little white ball during a nature hike appeals to you, then drive over to one of Sun Valley's seven golf courses. Although you may get clubbed in the head by an impatient golfer, feel free to putter along and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
BIKING Remember when you got your first bike and wiped out in the gravel trying to avoid the Ford F250 bearing down on you? Experience that same adrenaline rush on one of Sun Valley's biking trails. If tempting death cruising over rocks and mountainous debris or enjoying the scenery with mangled limbs sounds unpleasant, try one of the many paved paths suited for sane riders.
HORSEBACK RIDING Just in case the narrow bike seat doesn't cause enough discomfort, try horseback riding. Tours range from an hour and a half to all day. Riders must be at least 6 years old and weigh less than 250 lbs.
ROCK CLIMBING Hiking up the mountain satisfies most, but not all. Sun Valley offers rock climbing for those who enjoy dangling hundreds of feet in the air while clinging to a giant rock. All the necessary gear can be rented or purchased in one of the area's many specialty stores.
FLY FISHING At first I couldn't figure out why anyone would use a pole to catch flies. Then one of the locals explained that fly-fishing was a distinct method of fishing used to catch trout and salmon. He then recommended a local professional guide and a casting clinic, of which there are many.
KAYAKING, CANOING and WHITEWATER RAFTING Three rivers offer opportunity for water recreation: The Upper Salmon's smooth current provides a half day or a full day's fun for children, beginners, and wimps. For a more challenging ride, spend a full day on the Main Payette or one to three days on the South Fork Payette.
ATV RIDING Remember when you were a kid and wanted to go ATV riding, but your mom talked you out of it by telling you the story of some kid who lost all his teeth in an ATV accident? Now you can be the kid moms always talk about. Plenty of trails accommodate the adventurous and not so adventurous rider.
No matter what you plan on doing in Sun Valley, bring the binoculars, the camera and a sturdy pair of shoes and leave the hectic pace of life behind.
This glimpse into his apparently painful childhood, by way of Sun Valley, was brought to you by Trent Lorcher