bald mountain trail

KetchumPegasus

Starting out at almost 6,000 feet, the hike up Bald Mountain Trail is breathtaking, not only from the 3,000 + feet climb in elevation but also because of the views of the sweet little town of Ketchum and up and down the Wood River Valley. From the top of the mountain you can look west over miles and miles of wilderness area, and north toward the sawtooths and east to the boulders and the mighty Pioneers. I advise checking to see if the chair lift is running yet for a free ride back down to River Run Lodge. The lower part of Warm Springs Trail is popular with mountain bikers, so be aware of them coming from behind. The Bald Mountain Trail is separated from the bike trails, and is popular and busy with hikers, families, dogs. It is something you don't want to miss if you enjoy hiking.

Gypsygirl831

Head to Seattle Ridge great ski area for everyone strong beginner to expert, beautiful views, excellent food.

idlehands26

excellent views and one heck of a photo oppurtunity.Of course this is a summer time trail for hiking or biking and gives you serenity as you look around and see the valley nestled into the sawtooth mountains

kabrooks

Last year we hiked to the top of Bald Mountain, and this year we decided to hike down. From the top, it is about a 2 ½ hour hike down the 5 mile trail. It was hard on our knees and ankles, but we were more focused on the beauty of the hike rather than our hurting bodies! I would suggest going early in the morning to beat the heat of the sun. My husband and I only brought one water bottle each, but we easily could have consumed more. One thing is for sure, it is a lot easier going down than up!

vacakelly

The fortunate thing is they make snow when it is a lean year. We were lucky and they had a foot of powder then sun the rest of the week!

peggyg907

If you don't have much time, want trees and shade, or just need to warm up and get used to the altitude, this is an ideal trail. Located by the River Run Lodge, it is easily accessible by any car or the local bus.

79Jane

If you climb to the top of Baldy, you will have accomplished a great hike. The trail steadily ascends, so for those who are not accustomed to the altitude, it can be a strenuous hike.

boisefit

We actually did the Lower River Run Trail and then cut over to the road and took it to the Roundhouse. Once we got up to the restaurant we relaxed and had a drink at the bar and then took the Gondola back down the mountain. Excellent views! The road is like walking straight up the mountain so I don't recommend this if you are not an experienced hiker. It is very strenuous but very challenging - great cardio! I am not sure how long our hike was. I am guessing 4 or 5 miles.

BellRocker

We took a picnic to the Lookout/Christmas chair lift stop then hiked back down the bald mountain trail. This is a bit hard on the knees and ankles, so take that into consideration. We hiked at a brisk pace, and this took just under three hours. I think it's because we kept stopping to ooh and ahh at the beautiful, non-stop scenery. We viewed deer and a brown fox during this hike. We took the hike on Labor Day weekend, with spectacular weather and temperatures. Dress in layers and bring plenty of water. Other options are to hike up and take the gondola back down free of charge. I'm a regular hiker, and my hamstrings are sore two days later, so be aware of the physical demands whether you hike up, down, or round-trip.

Sunvalleyjodi

Hike when the gondola/ chairlift is open which is usually late June to mid-Sept. You can hike up and take the gondola/chairlift down for free!! Anything that is FREE in Sun Valley is a bonus! The hike is 5 miles with about a 3,000 ft gain so you must be in good to excellent shape.

takemewithu28

After hiking up for about five miles, you'll be ready to take the gondola back down. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen and take your time. You'll want to stop frequently -- to breathe and admire the view. It's spectacular. The trail is well marked and the terrain is varied. It's a terrific adventure, great exercise and you'll be so proud of yourself when you reach the top. The ride down on the gondola is free and worthy of more than a few pics. Oh, if you are interested in hiking back down the mountain, make sure your shoes/boots fit you well. I've injured my toenails hiking down as it is a steep vertical pitch for five miles. Tough on your toenails if your shoes are the slightest bit tight. And quite painful for that last mile or so.

charley48

this trail is well maintained, and a great way to get a little exercise and see the valley. there is a overlook, with benches at the top. fairly easy, and fun. starting at the side of river run.