Sun Valley may be celebrated for its outdoor pursuits, star-studded history and 200+ days of sunshine, but the truly adventurous know that some of the biggest discoveries lie in the small towns beyond this city. Pack your bags and discover a whole world of things to do near Sun Valley by exploring rugged wonders, local cuisine and even more in the lesser-known destinations of central Idaho.
Named after German scientist George Von Arco, the little town of Arco made history by becoming the first town in the world to be lit by atomic power in July 1955. As you delve into this humble destination, known as the gateway to the Lost River Valley, queue up your favorite road trip playlist and prepare to discover a variety of things to do near Sun Valley, from out-of-this-world geological sites to historical monuments.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & PreserveDiscover the rugged beauty of Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve with an easy drive on Loop Road. This route offers access to trails, caves and scenic overlooks.
Experimental Breeder Reactor Atomic MuseumLearn about Arco’s atomic history and see four nuclear reactors, including two aircraft nuclear propulsion prototypes, a reactor control room and more at the Experimental Breeder Reactor Atomic Museum (EBR-I), a National Historic Landmark.
King Mountain Natural Arch TrailLocated on the southern portion of King Mountain, the King Mountain Natural Arch is an eighty-foot-high limestone arch. The half-mile King Mountain Natural Arch Trail is an uphill path showcasing stunning rock formations. (There are no facilities, so be prepared, know your limits and Travel With Care.)
Pickle’s PlaceStop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner at Pickle’s Place, or take a homemade sack lunch to go for an afternoon of exploring.
Mountain View Arco RV Park RestaurantEnjoy barbecue at the Mountain View Arco RV Park Restaurant.
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Fairfield, bordering the Sawtooth National Forest, is a quaint town with peaks that stand against the sky and lush, wide-open prairie as far as the eye can see. Fairfield is a place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Soldier MountainSolider Mountain offers 7.7 miles of gravity trails for riders of all experience levels.
Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management AreaEach spring, the Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area turns into a sea of purple and blue during the camas lily bloom. This 3,100-acre wildlife management area is also home to thousands of birds, making it the perfect spot for birdwatching.
Mormon ReservoirDip your toes or drop a line in Mormon Reservoir for a relaxing day by the water. Fish for rainbow trout, sleep under the stars, go boating or explore the area by bike.
Soldier Creek Brewing CompanyEnjoy live music, an extensive beer selection and pub fare at Soldier Creek Brewing Company.
Iron Mountain InnPull up a chair at Iron Mountain Inn, a family diner featuring homestyle plates, spirits and sports entertainment.
The Cliff Bar and GrilleOffering microbrews on tap, wild Alaskan seafood, jalapeno bacon burgers and bar fare, The Cliff Bar and Grille is a great place to enjoy a cold one, listen to music and hang out with friends.
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Named after Frank R. Gooding, a former Idaho Governor and U.S. Senator, Gooding has been coined as the “gateway to the good life” and for good reason. Home to dramatic rock formations and plenty of unique caves, Gooding is a rockhound haven for hiking, biking, rock climbing and bouldering.
Little City of RocksWander through towering hoodoos, rock arches and canyon walls at the Little City of Rocks. A Bureau of Land Management Wilderness Study Area, the Little City of Rocks is a place to enjoy hiking, camping and mountain biking. The area is out of cell service, so be prepared, know your limits and Travel With Care.
Tea Kettle CaveFound in the desert north of Gooding, Tea Kettle Cave is a locally treasured adventure. Named after its shape, this cave rewards hikers with a blanket of delicate ferns inside. Be sure to walk around the ferns when possible, Travel With Care and keep an eye out for rattlesnakes. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to access the cave.
Gooding Hotel Bed & BreakfastOriginally built in the late 1880s, the Gooding Hotel Bed & Breakfast is steeped in local history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Zeppes Pizza & SubsLocally owned and operated for 30 years, Zeppes Pizza & Subs treats guests to hand-tossed pizza, burgers, sub sandwiches, salads, wraps and eight rotating ice cream flavors.
El CazadorTake a bite out of Gooding’s food scene at El Cazador.
Western CafeStart your morning off right with breakfast or brunch at the Western Cafe.
There’s more to explore!
Find more adventures in the area.
