Lakes & Rivers in Sun Valley, ID
Lakes and rivers in Sun Valley, ID are woven right into the Village experience. Stroll the paths around Sun Valley Lake for paddle boats, picnics, and rink-and-Baldy views. Follow Trail Creek as it winds past the Lodge, golf course, and historic Trail Creek Cabin for shady walks and creekside photo stops. Cast a line on the Big Wood River—the valley’s signature fishery—just minutes from the Village with easy access points and the Wood River Trail nearby.
Sun Valley Lake
Right in the Village behind the Sun Valley Pavilion, just a 2–5 minute walk from the Lodge, this small scenic lake is ideal for mellow vacation time. In summer you’ll find paddle boats, picnic spots, a flat walking loop on resort paths, and frequent photo ops with Baldy in the backdrop. In shoulder seasons it’s a peaceful spot for stroller-friendly laps and birdwatching. No powerboats or swimming beach here—think relaxing, family-friendly vibes.
Trail Creek
Trail Creek flows through the heart of Sun Valley alongside the Lodge, golf course, and Village paths before winding up-canyon toward Trail Creek Summit—the historic Trail Creek Cabin sits along it. Expect easy riverside walks or jogs, shady spots for picnics, and winter magic around sleigh-ride season. Anglers find pocket-water casting, while cyclists and runners use nearby routes to connect the Village with White Clouds and Proctor loops.
Big Wood River
Forming the western edge of Sun Valley and running directly through neighboring Ketchum, the Big Wood is the valley’s signature waterway. Popular for walk-and-wade fly fishing, riverside strolls on the Wood River Trail, and scenic pullouts for picnics, it’s accessible year-round with seasonal flow changes. In late spring/early summer, expect higher, colder water, by mid-to-late summer conditions often favor dry-fly and nymph fishing (license required—check Idaho regs). It’s also a great place to cool off after Baldy or Adams Gulch hikes.