Experience the Magic of Trail Running in Idaho

Have you ever felt the thrill of trail running through a landscape that feels like it was painted just for you? That’s what I found on the trails near Ketchum, Idaho, where I found not just breathtaking scenery, but an opportunity to connect with nature deeply.

As the last snow melted and summer burst to life in central Idaho, I laced up my trail shoes, eager to feel the warm sun on my skin and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

I had heard amazing things about the trails near Ketchum and decided to spend a weekend exploring the area to see what the buzz was all about. This mountain town is famous for its seemingly endless network of trails. Whether you want to run 3 miles or 30, you can create your own adventures by linking trails together like brushstrokes on a canvas. The best part is the running season extends well beyond summer, and the views are plenty.

Here are a few of my favorite trails near Ketchum, along with some tips for your trail-running journey to Idaho.

Slow Down on your Next Trail Run

A professional runner once gave me a valuable piece of advice about trail running: “Always walk the uphills.” Prior to this, I had only ever seen the sport of running as something people did for speed. I believed that walking sections of a run was frowned upon and, therefore, saw trail running as impossible; I would never be strong enough to run up mountains. When I visited the trails in Ketchum, I walked almost every uphill. This gave me more time to savor these special places that have so many gifts for us; we just have to be open to receiving them.

Spark Your Runner’s High on These Three Trails

Revisiting a familiar trail—perhaps the one where your love for running began or where the leaves change in the fall—can be a truly special experience. The trails below are places I want to return to again and again, each leaving a lasting impression. 

Fox Creek Loop, a 5.3-mile path, winds along Fox Creek, featuring footbridges and grassy turns before ascending you into the hills to reveal spectacular mountain views. In spring, the vibrant greens create a lovely palette, while the smells of pine sap, dust and sunshine create a cocktail for your nose. The warm sun on your skin awakens every cell in your body. The trail’s varied scenery makes the 5 miles feel shorter, as you are greeted by a different wildflower or view around every turn. The trail’s peak provides an excellent viewpoint of the surrounding mountain ranges. When visiting in summer, a dip in cool Fox Creek will soothe your skin, mixing fire and ice for an invigorating boost. The trail offers intermediate terrain, with uphill and downhill sections peppered with occasional rocks, and is just a short drive from downtown Ketchum.

Sunrise Loop Trail is another favorite, offering various loops and access points. Located across from the Sun Valley Lodge, the path showcases the beautiful Sun Valley Resort area. Standing above this picturesque area feels like being inside a painting, with colorful houses and buildings spread below. The main loop is roughly 1.5 miles, but it easily connects to other trails for longer adventures. This beginner-friendly singletrack is well-packed with gentle grades, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature without strenuous climbs. Plus, if you are staying nearby, you can walk to the trail from the lodge!

If you are looking for a bit more of a challenge, Proctor Loop Trail is a fantastic option, leading to amazing views—just remember to walk the uphills! This 4.2-mile trail gains 1,000 feet in elevation, rewarding your climb with panoramic vistas of the neighboring mountains. Aspen groves provide shade as you ascend, and the view from the top is breathtaking.

Enjoy Every Minute, Including the Rest Breaks

It’s easy to get caught up in reaching the next summit, waterfall or overlook on a run. Instead, I challenge you to head out with no specific destination or goal in mind. Simply run for the joy of being outside and in nature.

I used to believe that runners had to push through nonstop, withonly quick breaks to gulp down gels or bars to sustain energy. But that doesn’t have to be everyone’s experience. I stop frequently to snap photos, capturing memories to share with family and friends who can’t be there with me. Through these photos, I bring my loved ones along, sharing the wildlife and wildflowers I encounter on long days outside.

Speaking of gels and bars, eating before and after a run is essential to keeping your body feeling good. For some tasty pre-run fuel in Ketchum, head to Java on Fourth, where you’ll find a variety of delicious breakfast or lunch options, along with incredible coffee. After your trail-running adventure,  Lefty’s Bar & Grill is a great spot to replenish your tank, where you can soak up the sun on their outdoor patio with a burger and a beer.

If You’re Outdoors, You’re Outdoorsy

For many, the outdoors can feel exclusive, but I’ve learned that nature welcomes everyone—regardless of their experience, background or skill level.

If you run on a trail, you’re a trail runner. It doesn’t matter your pace, how many breaks you take or how much you walk. Simply put: If you’re outdoors, you’re outdoorsy. Idaho’s trails reminded me of this. I saw others walking, mountain biking, fishing, swimming or picnicking by a creek. Locals and visitors alike were enjoying the fresh mountain air. The friendly greetings and smiles I received made me feel welcome on the trails and reminded me that I belonged.

Expand Your Outdoor Community

Who do you invite to explore the outdoors with you? Outdoor recreation has traditionally been dominated by a narrow demographic, but we can change that. Consider inviting someone new—a family member, a friend who’s never hiked or someone with a different background. By expanding our outdoor community, we create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.

Idaho’s blend of green landscapes, bright blue skies, stunning ridgelines and cool, refreshing rivers made for a memorable trail-running trip and offers something for everyone—regardless of running experience or level. Remember, you belong out there on the trail.

Looking for more offroad running fun in the Gem State? Check out Visit Idaho’s Hiking and Backpacking page for more excellent trail recommendations.

Feature image credited to Sofia Jaramillo.

Vanessa Chavarriaga Posada is an environmental sociologist and outdoor athlete from Medellín, Colombia. She is a three-culture kid whose childhood was split between Colombia, the U.S. and Mexico. Her work now focuses on the intersections of race, identity, and nature through DEI education, public speaking, and writing.