The Best Family-Friendly Winter Activities in the Wood River Valley
By Matt Stevenson | Stevenson Real Estate Group
Winter in the Wood River Valley (including Ketchum, Sun Valley, Hailey & Bellevue) isn’t simply about skiing—it’s about creating memories as a family, embracing the snow, and discovering activities for all ages and energy levels. Whether you have toddlers in tow or teens pushing the limits, here’s a roundup of the best ways to winter together in the valley.
🎿 On-Snow Adventures
Ski & Ride:
The region’s slopes offer a range of experiences from beginner to advanced. For newer skiers, the gently rolling terrain of Dollar Mountain (in Sun Valley) is ideal. Then as confidence grows, families can head to the larger terrain on Bald Mountain.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing:
Not keen on downhill or looking for a gentler pace? The valley features Nordic trails, snowshoe zones and scenic routes through forest and snowdrifts—great for younger kids and mixed-ability groups.
⛸️ Fun Off the Hill
Ice Skating:
One of the winter staples is skating under the sky. The open-air rink ant The Sun Valley resort invites families to lace up and glide (or wobble) together. The Hailey Ice Rink also offers open skating sessions, and is a beautiful new build suitable for the whole family.
Catch a Hockey Game:
Our own Sun Valley Suns play frequently in the Valley against visiting teams - a great family night out watching these amazing athletes
Sledding & Snow Play:
For a totally carefree activity, find a gentle hill and let the kids sled, build snowmen, and expend energy. This is winter fun in its purest form. Penny Hill (Sun Valley), and Quigley (Hailey) are both wonderful sledding hills.
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides & Family Dinners:
There’s something magical about a sleigh ride through the snow followed by dinner in a cozy cabin. Parents and kids both love it. Sun Valley Company offers Sleigh Rides in winter months.
🏠 Misty Mountain Moments
Indoor Fun & Pool Time:
When you want a break from the cold, local resorts and centres provide pools, hot tubs and indoor activities. It’s a great way to rest and recharge as a family.
Festive Holiday Events:
The valley embraces winter with lights, ice shows, tree-lightings and holiday markets—activities that create tradition and joy for children of all ages.
✅ Family-Friendly Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Plan each day with variety: alternate active mornings (skiing/snowshoeing) with quieter afternoons (sledding, indoor play).
- Gear up early: good winter outerwear and boots go a long way for kids’ comfort.
- Choose lodging near town or slopes so you’re never far from activity or retreat.
- Make downtime part of the plan—a hot chocolate by the fire, a casual board game night, or a stroll through the village in snow-lit evening.
- Let everyone pick one “must-do” activity—whether a run on the slopes, a sleigh ride, or an ice-skating session—so each family member feels included.
✨ Why This Valley Works for Families
What makes the Wood River Valley truly special is how accessible and inclusive it is. From snow play for little ones to more advanced winter sport for older kids, the mountain-town lifestyle invites families to explore together, slow down, and create lasting memories. The blend of nature, warmth and community means winter here isn’t a season—it’s a chapter of family life.
Matt Stevenson
Stevenson Real Estate Group
🌐 sunvalleystevenson.com
