The Best Ways to Get Around the Wood River Valley: Ketchum, Sun Valley, Hailey & Bellevue
By Matt Stevenson | Stevenson Real Estate Group
Whether you’re heading up Baldy for first chair, grabbing dinner in downtown Ketchum, or catching a flight out of Hailey, getting around the Wood River Valley is easy once you know the options.
Our community has worked hard to make transportation convenient, affordable, and safe — day or night, winter or summer. Whether you prefer to drive, ride, or catch a local shuttle, here’s how to navigate the valley like a local.
1. Mountain Rides – Free Buses Throughout the Valley
Best for: Skiers, commuters, and visitors exploring without a car
Mountain Rides is the heart of local transportation — and it’s completely free within Ketchum, Sun Valley, and Hailey. Their clean, reliable buses run year-round, connecting downtown stops with Bald Mountain, River Run, and Sun Valley Village.
Local tip:
During ski season, the Blue Route and Silver Route make it simple to get from town to the slopes — no parking hassles, no stress.
Bonus: Mountain Rides also offers commuter buses between Bellevue, Hailey, and Ketchum for those who live south but work (or ski) north.
2. Local Taxis & Private Shuttles
Best for: Evenings out, airport transfers, group rides
If you’re heading out for dinner or après and don’t want to drive, local taxi and shuttle services are a reliable option — and they run late.
Trusted companies like Wood River Taxi, Sun Valley Express, and A Silver Mountain Transportation provide everything from short local rides to Boise Airport transfers.
Pro tip:
Book your ride in advance on weekends or during holidays — things can get busy when the valley is buzzing.
3. Uber & Lyft in the Valley
Best for: Quick, flexible, on-demand transportation
Yes — rideshare is available here! While availability can fluctuate late at night or during busy weekends, Uber and Lyft both operate throughout the Wood River Valley.
Local tip:
If you’re planning a late evening out in Ketchum, check the apps early and line up a ride before midnight — service can thin out later in the night, especially midweek.
4. Hotel & Lodge Shuttles
Best for: Visitors and resort guests
If you’re staying in Sun Valley, the resort offers complimentary shuttles that run between the Lodge, the Inn, River Run, and the Village. Many downtown hotels and rental properties also coordinate local pick-up and drop-off through Mountain Rides or private services.
Insider tip:
Even if you’re not a resort guest, you can hop on a Mountain Rides bus from the Lodge area and be in downtown Ketchum in minutes.
5. Biking & Walking — When the Snow Melts
Best for: Summer travel and local commuting
Once spring hits, biking becomes one of the most enjoyable (and scenic) ways to get around. The Wood River Trail, a 20+ mile paved path, connects Bellevue, Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley — perfect for a sunny commute or a leisurely cruise.
Local tip:
E-bikes are widely available for rent in Ketchum — and they make those gentle valley inclines a breeze.
6. A Note on Safety — and Why It Matters
Our community thrives on outdoor fun, good food, and après gatherings — but it also values looking out for one another. With so many easy transportation options, it’s never worth the risk of driving under the influence.
Whether you’re out at Grumpy’s, The Duchin Lounge, or Roots Wine Bar, plan ahead:
✅ Use Mountain Rides, a taxi, or rideshare.
✅ Ask your server or bartender for local shuttle info.
✅ Carpool with a designated driver when possible.
Small choices make a big difference — and help keep our valley safe for everyone.
Local’s Quick Guide: Getting Around by Need
|
Situation |
Best Option |
|
Getting to Baldy |
Mountain Rides Blue/Silver Routes |
|
Après and dinner in Ketchum |
Taxi or Uber |
|
Airport transfers |
Sun Valley Express or A Silver Mountain Shuttle |
|
Exploring car-free |
Free bus or e-bike rental |
|
Late-night rides |
Wood River Taxi or Uber (check ahead) |
Life’s Smoother When You Know Your Valley
Part of what makes life here special is how easy it is to move between towns, trails, and mountain peaks — all while staying connected to the community. Whether you’re commuting from Hailey or heading to Sun Valley Lodge for dinner, getting around the valley should feel effortless.
And if you’re thinking about making this place home, I can help you find a property that fits your lifestyle — walkable, slopeside, or somewhere in between.
Matt Stevenson
Stevenson Real Estate Group
