B O I S E W E E K LY ’ S G U I D E TO T H E
WOOD RIVER VALLEY
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art in the mountains
ketchum on a budget
calendar of events
where to go outside
sounds of the season + ice skating
ART IN THE MOUNTAINS Fine art and theater fill the need for culture BY DELLA SENTILLES
or a mountain town, there is a lot of culture in Sun Valley. In fact, if you have had too much sun or can’t move your behind after hiking up Baldy, then there is a way to spend the day and evening sans athletic undertakings: stroll the galleries in Ketchum or check out a play in Hailey. Sun Valley hosts an assortment of galleries featuring everything from contemporary paintings, black-and-white photography, sculpture and originals by Picasso. Galleries are typically open seven days a week, but visitors should be sure to check out the free monthly gallery walks when the galleries open their doors late, pour the wine and show off their goods. This summer, the gallery walks are scheduled for Friday, July 3, and Friday, Aug. 7. Most Ketchum galleries are situated on the west side of town on First Avenue. Gail Severn Gallery, on the corner of Fourth Street and First Avenue, is a beautiful structure even without the art, and this season it has some fantastic artists as well. In July, view largerthan-life sculpture by Julie Spiedel and breath-taking photographs by Laura McPhee, whose work has been shown in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Getty Center and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, among others. Just one block south on First Avenue is Gallery DeNovo. The work featured in the film Vicky Cristina Barcelona was by Spanish artist Agusti Puig, who is a staple at Gallery DeNovo. While the gallery itself is small, the work is no understatement. Above DeNovo is Frederic Boloix Fine Arts, which is home to pieces by masters such as Matisse, Miro and Picasso. It’s worth just a peek even if your bank account wouldn’t cover a quarter of the cost. For the ultimate modern experience, visit Gilman Contemporary. This gallery is a couple blocks east of Main Street on Sun Valley Road. The gallery is modern in feel and in show, hanging works by some of the country’s most successful contemporary artists like Ashley Collins. Make sure to check the back rooms filled with great work from previous shows, including Nick Brandt’s incredible, seemingly larger-than-life photographs of Africa. The image of the elephant is a local favorite. Another plus is that Gilman often serves some kind of bubbly for its “wine beverage.” Stunning art galleries aren’t the only culture available. There Nick Brandt, Elephant With Exploding Dust, Amboseli, is also the Company of Fools, archival pigment ink print, 20-inches by 20-inches which performs three rotating productions at the Liberty Theatre in Hailey throughout the summer. The season begins on Saturday, July 4, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 2, featuring everything from drama to humor with a few musical numbers in between. This summer the season begins with 110 in the Shade. The tale is set in a drought-stricken community in the American West circa 1930. It premiered on Broadway more than 40 years ago but remains a poetic and moving piece of work. The second performance is Welcome Home Jenny Sutter, a contemporary piece based on the return of a wounded Marine from Iraq. The protagonist, Jenny Sutter, returns to her home in California without the body or mind she remembers and must struggle to overcome her limitations and accept her new life. Finally, the third play is the classic Steel Magnolias, about the lives of six women in rural Louisiana. Chances are, it will make you laugh and cry. Theatre tickets typically run $25 for adults, $10 for students and $18 for seniors. But Company of Fools also offers many deals. Groups of six or more go for $18 per ticket with students still at $10. There are also 10 seats for $10 each sold every night, one hour before the show. Each play also features a pay-what-you-feel preview, and special educators’ nights give those in the education profession tickets for $10. For more information visit companyoffools.org or call 208-788-6520. For more event listings, check out the calendar of events on Pages 4-5.
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cover artist Troy Passey’s Sleepwalking is part of the Sun Valley Center for the Arts summer exhibition. Located in the town of Ketchum, the exhibit is housed inside four large storage containers. The unusual space will be home to a series of regional artists—four artists showing in July and four more in August— who will each transform the containers into unique artistic spaces. The show will open on Friday, July 3, and run through Friday, Sept. 4, at the center, on the corner of Second Avenue and Fourth Street. Artists joining Passey in the show are Jan Cox, Bob Dix, Pamela De Tuncq, Curtis Kemp, Elissa Kline, Megan Murphy and Angela Tsai. Troy Passey, Sleepwalking, acrylic and graphite on paper, 44-inches by 30-inches
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KETCHUM ON A BUDGET Best bets for big fun and little money BY KENT LAVERTY
un Valley has an image of glitz and glamour a beautiful, but expensive area that only the rich and famous can afford. But it’s well within reach of a savvy, budgetconscious traveler. Whether you’re into roughing it or hanging in town, there are options for every taste. Here are some of our favorite ways to get out of town without heading to the poor house. Timing is everything. First, bribe your boss and leave work early for an extended weekend—you’ll beat the traffic and be able to roll into town in time for dinner. The key thing to remember about Sun Valley is that it’s not the only town in the game. Hailey and Bellevue are just down the valley, and often offer more affordable options, albeit not at the base of the ski hill. One of our favorite just-rolled-in dinner spots is South Valley Pizzeria, half a block from the center of Bellevue, next to the Silver Dollar Bar on Elm Street. It’s a family friendly sort of place where pasta goes for as little as $7 for marinara spaghetti or fettuccine alfredo, and the pizza has been named “Best in the Valley” for eight years running. Now that you’ve eaten, you’ve got to find a place to lay your head. The iconic Sun Valley Lodge is an option during the off season— spring and fall—when the lodge offers highly discounted rates on both rooms and activities like golf and tennis. But in “high season,” the lodge may be out of many visitors’ price range. Instead, summer deals can be found among the many condos, cabins and rental homes that dot Ketchum, Sun Valley and even Hailey. Vacation Rental By Owner (vrbo.com) allows you to deal directly with a condo owner instead of a property management agency. You’ll likely get a better price, especially if you stay for a week instead of a weekend. In fact, you can always ask for a lower price than what may be listed on the Web site. Instead of a hotel room for around $130 per night, you can get a one-bedroom condo that sleeps four, and you’ll have your own kitchen to cook in. You might even score the elusive private hot tub and other amenities like a barbecue and a deck. Renting a condo or cabin also has the benefit of offering a much more private and at-home experience. Your best deal, of course, is to dig out the tent and camp. However, you have only a couple of choices within a few miles of Ketchum. Boundary Campground is just two miles past Sun Valley, making it the closest to town. But, unfortunately, it has only six campsites and is usually full on weekends. The North Fork and Wood River campgrounds—which have 57 campsites between them cost $10 each—are located eight miles north of Ketchum, off Highway 75 past the Sawtooth National Recreation Area headquarters. Lesser known campsites include Murdock and Caribou campgrounds near the SNRA HQ. You can reserve a space by calling 877-444-6777 or trying recreation. gov. Finally, if you have a camper or RV, try the Meadows RV park for $25, just three miles south of Ketchum. It’s hard to resist shopping when you’re in Sun Valley, where classy boutiques beckon from every street. While designer labels might not be in your budget, there’s always the Sun Valley institution: the Gold Mine. It’s the thrift store that attracts both tourists and locals alike, and sales from the store benefit the Ketchum Community Library. In a town like Sun Valley, there is always gold to be found among the piles of donations. From a terrific Patagonia shell, a wacky hydra-headed floor lamp and woven baskets to killer ladies cowboy boots, Japanese dinnerware sets or even classic albums and ski boots, you can find nearly anything if you take the time to look. Since many visitors to the Sun Valley area go for the outdoor recreation, there are a few shops that cater to the adventurous with sales that won’t damage your wallet too badly. Try Backwoods Mountain Sports, Elephant’s Perch, Bob Gordon’s Formula Sports (all in Ketchum) or Sturto’s in Hailey. When you finally get hungry again, you don’t have to be stuck with Ramen noodles. Instead, try Despo’s (formerly Desperado’s), which offers Mexican cuisine with numerous vegetarian specialties and is the only restaurant in Idaho certified by the Green Restaurant Association. For wraps, salads and lighter lunch fare, try Wrapcity Cafe. And if you miss KB’s in downtown Boise, visit its parent locations in both Ketchum and Hailey. But, because you have taken the trouble to go all the way to Sun Valley, why not treat yourself to one good meal out? We recommend the iconic Pioneer Saloon, which has been serving up massive steaks grilled over the flames since 1950. There are taxidermied animal heads in the wood-lined saloon, plenty of meat and potatoes in the restaurant, and it’s well worth the extra cash. Besides, you’ll probably leave with leftovers. If you’ve blown your budget by now, check out one of the free summer music series in the area. For a full listing, check the music story (Page 7) and calendar listings (Pages 4-5). After all this free and low-cost entertainment, you’ll be able to head home without any traveler’s remorse weighing you down. WWW.BOISEWEEKLY.COM
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MOU NTAIN IMAGES/JAMES BOU RRET PHOTOGRAPHY
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tions, live music and a children’s activity area. More than 130 artists exhibit unique handmade fine arts and crafts, including painting, photography, fiber, ceramic, metal, jewelry and woodwork. Aug. 7-8, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Atkinson Park, Ketchum, www.sunvalleycenter. org.
4 1 s t a n n u a l S u n V a l l e y C e n t e r A r t s a n d C r a f t s Fe s t i v a l The 2009 Sun Valley Center Arts and Crafts Festival is a community event featuring artist demonstra-
AUGUST
The theme of this year’s festival is Broadway in the Rockies and features a rotating repertoire of plays, including 110 in the Shade by N. Richard Nash, Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt; Steel Magnolias by Ron Harling, and Welcome Home Jenny Sutter by Julie Marie Myatt. Adults $25, seniors (62 and older) $18, students (18 and younger) $10; many different tickets packages and theme night tickets are available, as well as the Summer Fools Festival pass. Visit the Web site for details. Company of Fools at the Liberty Theatre, 110 N. Main St., Hailey, 208-578-9122, www.companyoffools.org.
T h i r d A n n u a l S u m m e r Fo o l s Fe s t i v a l
Take in free classical music performances in the The Sun Valley Pavilion and on the lawn outside. The season runs July 27-Aug. 18. The open seating begins at 5:30 p.m. with the concerts beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sun Valley Pavilion, Sun Valley Resort, 208-622-5607 www.svsummersymphony.org.
S u n Va l l e y S u m m e r S y m p h o n y
The 28-year-old event runs the weekend of July 23-25 and includes the auction gala, vintner dinners in private homes, a hosted wine picnic on a golf course, and a tasting that includes wines from the more than 120 wineries. Sun Valley Center for the Arts, 191 Fifth St. E., Ketchum, 208-726-9491, Ext. 22.
S u n Va l l e y C e n t e r W i n e A u c t i o n
Dunbar Interiors opens its courtyard for artists to share their talents with others. On July 17, the designer forum features Janet Dunbar, Susan Hall and Patti Linberg discussing the latest in the design world. On July 24, the Company of Fools delight and entertain. On July 31, Jorunn “Ue” Coe demonstrates her combination of realism and impressionism. Lisa Holley is the guest artist on Aug. 7. JoEllen Collins demonstrates applique on Aug. 14, Kevin Werbinsk and Rober Del Signore bring the magic of woodworking to the courtyard, and local artist Gay Odmark demonstrates multimedia including printing, collages and photography. Refreshments are provided. 3-5 p.m., $10 per person, Dunbar Interiors, 440 East Ave., Ketchum, 208-726-8573.
S u m m e r I n D u n b a r ’ s C o u r t ya r d
The lineup on July 31, includes Up A Creek at 5 p.m., Brave Combo at 6:30 p.m., and The Blasters at 8:30 p.m. The music starts on Aug. 1 at 11:30 a.m. with Joe Paisley, followed by No Cheap Horses at 12:30 p.m. and The Damphools at 1:30 p.m., Kim Stocking Band at 3 p.m., Ryebender at 4:30 p.m., Olin and the Moon at 6:15 p.m. and the headliners, The Gourds, take the stage at 8:30 p.m.
3 2 n d a n n u a l N o r t h e r n R o c k i e s Fo l k Fe s t i v a l
Walk around on a self-guided tour of seven private gardens that flourish in the mountain climate. The gardens are in the West Ketchum, Northwood and Warm Springs neighborhoods. Both residents and visitors can learn about native and cultivated plants, proven gardening techniques, and see unique garden designs. Tickets are $35 for SBG members and $45 for nonmembers. July 11, Sawtooth Botanical Garden, 11 Gimlet Road, Ketchum, 208-726-9358, www.sbgarden.org.
1 4 t h a n n u a l G a r d e n To u r
Booths are set up with the work of more than 100 Wood River Valley resident artists. The three-day festival July 10-12 includes live music, dancers, poets, culinary chefs and brewmeisters. July 10-11, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and July 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun Valley Festival Meadows, www.mountainangels. com/kaf.
1 0 t h a n n u a l K e t c h u m A r t s Fe s t i v a l
Everyone loves a parade, especially one that marches through downtown Hailey followed by an exciting bike race hosted by the Blaine County Recreation District. The 4th of July Bike Criterium features a carnival with bounce houses, face painting and children’s activities. July 4, www.bcrd.org.
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Tenors Dennis McNeil, Jose Medina and Eduardo Villa perform, along with the eight-member Hutchins Consort. June 28, 7:30 p.m., $25, $45, $75; children 18 and younger are free; students over 18 receive a $10 discount. Sun Valley Music Pavilion, Sun Valley Resort, 208-622-2135, www.sunvalleypavilion.com.
More than 20 artists set up canvases at Redfish Lake and invite the public to watch them interpret the natural beauty around them to create art. The four-day paint out ends with a sale on Sept. 3 at 5
S i x t h a n n u a l P l e i n A i r Pa i n t e r s o f I d a h o Pa i n t - O u t
The two-day festival Aug. 22-23 at Pioneer Park in Stanley includes educational tours, booths and history of salmon, along with food, vendors and entertainment. For more information, call 1-800-8787950, www.stanleycc.org.
S a w t o o t h S a l m o n Fe s t i v a l
The day of recreation starts with a run out to Quigley Canyon, and then heads back to town on the Wood River Trail. The after-party at the BCRD Aquatic Center gives participants the chance to cool off in the pool, under the gazebo or on the grass after a fun day in the sun. Aug. 29, Blaine County Recreation District, 1050 Fox Acres Road, Hailey, 208-788-2144, www.bcrd.org.
Q u i g l e y R u n a n d Fu n
The annual summer event brings out the outdoor enthusiasts to ride the 20-mile Wood River Trail, a paved bike path that runs along the river and through the streams from Ketchum to Sun Valley. Aug. 1, 208-788-9142, Blaine County Recreation District, www.bcrd.org.
Ride the Rails
The competition at the Ketchum Skate Park is Aug. 7, registration is from 10:30 a.m.-noon and the contest starts at 1 p.m. Helmets are required. The first-ever skateboard contest is being staged with the cooperation of The Board Bin. The entry fee is $10 and includes a free T-shirt. Ketchum Skate Park, Warm Springs and Saddle roads, Ketchum, 208-726-1222.
Skateboard Contest
Picnics and low-back chairs are welcome as each performer plays a full set in the park. Mishka’s roots reggae music is a great warm-up for pro surfer turned musician Donavon Frankenreiter’s mellow music inspired by the waves he still longs to ride. Aug. 15, 6 p.m., $30 general, $10 children 12 and younger, $100 VIP tickets includes valet parking, early entry and two drink coupons, Atkinson Park, Ketchum, www.sunvalleycenter.org.
S u n V a l l e y O p e r a : T h r e e Te n o r s A n d S t r i n g s E x t r a v a g a n z a D o n a v o n F r a n k e n r e i t e r a n d M i s h k a
Watch as world-class ice skaters perform on the ice rink at the Sun Valley Lodge June 27-Sept. 5, $32-$62, Sun Valley Resort, 1 Sun Valley Road, 888-622-2135, www.sunvalley.com.
S u n Va l l e y S u m m e r I c e S h o w s
The free concerts are in Rotary Park, across from the YMCA on Warm Springs Road in Ketchum. The concerts begin at the end of June and run through July 26. Picnics are welcome. June 28: Latin Jazz Ensemble; July 5: John Northup’s Jazz Rangers; July 12: Alan Pennay and Cheryl Morell; July 19: Kevin Kirk & Onomatopoeia; and July 26: Idaho Falls Jazz Big Band. 6 p.m., FREE, 208-726-3423.
S u n d a y E v e n i n g J a z z I n T h e Pa r k
The Tuesday evening free concerts are in Ketchum’s Forest Service Park and run June 30-Aug. 25. A local band opens at 7 p.m., followed by a headliner act at 7:30 p.m. A schedule of musicians can be found at www.visitsunvalley.com.
Ketch’em Alive 2009 Summer Concert Series
Get tickets for the 2009 Fly Fishing Film Festival presented by Blue Ribbon Films and Silver Creek Outfitters. All types of outdoor enthusiasts and anglers can take in the finest fly fishing films from around the country. All proceeds are donated to The Nature Conservancy. June 26, 7 p.m., $15, NexStage Theatre, 120 S. Main, Ketchum, www.silver-creek.com, 800-732-5687.
Fo u r t h a n n u a l F ly F i s h i n g F i l m Fe s t i v a l
JUNE
Hailey boasts a beauty of a park built by the world-famous Dreamland skatepark builders (www. dreamlandskateparks.com). The 12,500-square-foot cement playground for skaters is world-renowned because of the full pipe and 16-foot roll-ins. Ketchum has a park as well. Even if you’re not a skater, stop by and check out the talent.
S k at e pa r k s
According to the Sun Valley Ketchum Chamber and Visitors Bureau, the top trails to ride are as follows: 1. Bald Mountain Trail. Climb 9,000 feet on this uphill only trail with great views at the top and a fast ride down the Cold Springs or Warm Springs trail; 2. Lane’s Trail, near Ketchum, takes riders on a 5-mile loop with a picnic table at the top and a steep decline; 3. Oregon Gulch and Saddle Trail features twists, turns and views of the Boulder mountains; 4. Prairie Creek Loop is a technical ride that requires full-suspension and disc-breaks to come down off the high point of 9,000 feet, mountain lakes and a steep and rocky descent from Miner Lake; 5. Fisher Creek Loop takes riders on a 17.5-mile wildflower-viewing loop through the burn zone of the 2005 Valley Road Fire.
M o u n ta i n B i k e Tr a i l s
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EVENT CALENDAR
WOOD RIVER VALLEY
Ketchum’s biggest weekend of the year celebrates the area’s mining history. The highlight occurs on Saturday, Sept. 5, with the Big Hitch parade, billed as the longest non-motorized parade in the country. This must-see event features more than 100 museumquality buggies, carriages, carts and restored buckboards of every variety, including the renowned Budweiser Clydesdales. The culmination of the parade is the arrival of the JAM ES B OU R R ET/ M OU NTAIN IM AGES Big Hitch—six tall, narrow Lewis Ore Wagons. The wagons stand 15-feet tall and are
Ke tc h u m Wa g o n D ay s September 2-7
Hailey is also the setting of an incredible musical treat, the Northern Rockies Folk Festival. For its 32nd year, the Folk Festival will offer up a diverse mix of some big names—The Gourds and The Blasters— and tons of area talent, including Up a Creek, Brave Combo, No Cheap Horses, and the Damphools. Bring your blanket and settle in to Hop Porter City Park next SUN VALLEY CENTER FOR THE ARTS to the Big Wood River in a beautiful natural setting. Bring your own picnic, or you can come hungry and treat yourself to cuisine from the array of local food booths. Admission is typically $20 for a button, which gets you in any time.
N o r t h e r n R o c k i e s Fo l k Fe s t i v a l J u ly 3 1 - A u g u s t 1
Nestled in the shadows of the glitz and glamour of Sun Valley, the Hailey Days of the Old West is a hometown celebration and a glimpse into the heritage and tradition of a Western town. It’s a great way to spend a Fourth of July weekend, complete with a pancake breakfast, parade, shootout, barbecue with live music. And of course, there’s a traditional rootin’, tootin’ rodeo, named Rodeo of the Year two years running by the Intermountain Professional Rodeo Association. It beat out 50 other rodeos held throughout the region for the honor. You can also visit two different outdoor antique markets on each side of town starting Wednesday, July 1, and running through Sunday, July 5. The City of Hailey offers one of the largest fireworks displays in the state so everyone can get their Fourth of July fireworks fix.
H a i l e y D ay s o f t h e O l d We s t J u ly 2 - 4
Residents in the Sun Valley area love to celebrate those things that make Idaho unique. Over the years, a number of festivals have grown into must-attends, drawing visitors from across the region. Here are our picks for some of those most worth the drive from Boise.
BY KENT LAVERTY
Make a weekend away an event
festivals worth the drive
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12 DINNERS WITH VINTNERS IN PRIVATE HOMES
RIEDEL WINE SYMPOSIUM WITH GEORG RIEDEL
UÊWINE
TASTING EXTRAVAGANZA
UÊWINE
PICNIC CONCERT
GALA WINE AUCTION WITH GUEST CHEFS CAL STAMENOV, RICK MOONEN & BEN SPUNGIN
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Join us for an incredible weekend of exquisite wines and fine food, all to raise money for the educational arts programs of the Sun Valley Center for the Arts.
When Boiseans think jazz festival, they tend to think of the Gene Harris Jazz Festival or the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival in Moscow. But neither of these are as big and as varied as the Sun Valley M ATT LEIDEC K ER Jazz Festival. More than 300 performances by more than 40 groups are spread across five days. Morning, noon and night, the sound of Dixieland fills the crisp fall air. This is a pilgrimage for jazz aficionados from around the country, and lodging is hard to come by. This event has become one of the signature jazz festivals in the country, yet it has flown under the radar in the Treasure Valley.
S u n Va l l e y J a z z Fe s t i v a l Oct. 14-18
Ketchum was once the sheep capital of America, second only internationally to Sydney, Australia. When the mining boom faded in the 1870s, sheep took over as an economic engine. To this day, Basque sheepherders run thousands of sheep through the town S TEVE PLATZ ER in the fall, moving them from their summer pastures in the Boulder and Smoky mountains to warmer pastures. The weekend features the Oinkari Basque dancers, sheepherding demonstrations, and regional artisans shearing, carding, spinning and weaving wool. Catch Peruvian musicians and dancers, sheep wagon displays and even the Boise Highlanders pipe and drum band. It’s a family event filled with children’s activities, wool and crafts shops, and lamb tasting. On Sunday, Oct. 11, the Trailing of the Sheep parade moves thousands of sheep through town.
Tr a i l i n g o f t h e S h e e p Fe s t i v a l October 9-11
On your way back to Boise, stop in Bellevue on Monday, Sept. 7, for the annual Labor Day Celebration, which includes a traditional parade, barbecue, arts and crafts fair, and great music in the city park.
B e l l e v u e L a b o r D ay C e l e b rat i o n September 7
pulled by a team of 16 draft mules tied in an authentic jerkline. When the wagon team makes a 90-degree turn at the intersection of Main Street and Sun Valley Road, it is a sight to see. But the parade is only one part of an action-filled weekend, featuring the Blackjack Ketchum shootout, a fiddler’s contest, antique markets, car auctions, a tennis tournament, food, music and a children’s carnival.
Tickets and information available online www.sunvalleycenter.org or 208.726.9491
The 20th anniversary of the jazz festival begins on Oct. 14 at 12:30 p.m., and fills the air with the sounds of jazz, ragtime and swing until 5 p.m. on Oct. 18. The free community concert is Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. Other activities include an amateur dance contest, big band bash and a pianorama. Most of the featured venues have a dance floor, food and beverages for purchase. Oct. 14-18, $40 per event or $100-$115 for all event pass, www.sunvalleyjazz.com.
S u n Va l l e y J a z z J a m b o r e e
The event held Oct. 22-23 celebrates Hemingway’s history in the Wood River Valley. The event includes lectures, speaker presentations and a Hemingway Haunts tour of Papa’s favorite spots in the area. The Community Library, 415 Spruce Ave. N., Ketchum, 208-726-3493, www.thecommunitylibrary.org.
E r n e s t H e m i n g way S y m p o s i u m
The event in Ketchum and Hailey runs Oct. 9-11 and honors the history and culture of sheep ranching in the West. Learn how to cook with lamb during demonstrations by area chefs, hear tall tales during storytelling gatherings and hop on board the Sheep Shuttle to hear about the sheep ranching life with John Peavey, a third generation sheep rancher. The NexStage Theatre features Rosalie Sorrells with Hal Cannon on Oct. 10 at 7 p.m., and Hal Cannon and recording artist Brenn Hill at Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. The main event is the Trailing of the Sheep Parade Oct. 12 at noon. Downtown Ketchum’s Main Street fills with 1,500 woolly sheep and the ranchers and herders who tend them, Peruvian musicians, Oinkari Basque dancers, the Boise Highlanders and the Polish Highlanders. No dogs allowed. 208-720-0585, www.trailingofthesheep.org.
1 2 t h A n n u a l Tr a i l i n g O f T h e S h e e p Fe s t i v a l
OCTOBER
The Wild West Players take the original script and music arrangements by Derek Furch and put their own spin on it to present an energetic mix of dancing, singing and comedy for the whole family to enjoy. Sept. 4-5, 7:30 p.m., Sun Valley Opera House, 208-622-2135, www.sunvalleypavilion.com.
The Wah-Hoo Revue
See a collection of traditional and contemporary quilt designs Sept. 18-20. For more information, e-mail doron221@msn.com, Stanley Community Center, Stanley, Idaho.
S a w t o o t h M o u n t a i n M a m a s 2 5 t h A n n u a l Q u i lt Fe s t i v a l
The admission is free to shop for antiques and unique treasures during the three day sale, which runs Sept. 4-7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., NexStage Theatre, 120 S. Main St., Ketchum, 208-720-5547.
Ke tc h u m L a b o r D ay A n t i q u e s S h o w
More than 25 films produced all over the world are screened in Sun Valley Sept 18-20 at the Liberty Theatre and the Sun Valley Opera House. Many of the filmmakers are on hand to discuss their craft with attendees and conduct panel discussions. $8-$15 individual tickets and special events or $135 festival pass, www.svspiritualfilmfestival.org.
f i f t h a n n u a l S u n Va l l e y s p i r i t u a l f i l m Fe s t i v a l
Ketchum Wagon Days runs Sept. 2-7. Get out of the way for the Big Hitch Parade, the largest nonmotorized parade in the Northwest is on Sept. 5. The area’s mining heritage is recognized during the 51st annual Labor Day celebration and an authentic 16-draft mule jerkline powers the parade of museum quality wagons, buggies, carts and buckboards though downtown Ketchum. www.wagondays. com.
2 0 0 9 Wa g o n D ay s C e l e b rat i o n
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The contemporary ballet company headquartered in Boise performs in Sun Valley. Aug. 27-28, 8 p.m., $35-$55, Sun Valley Pavilion, www.treymcintyre.com.
trey mcintyre project
p.m. at Redfish Lake Lodge. Aug. 31 Sept. 3, Redfish Lodge, 208 774 3819, www.pleinairpainterso fidaho.org.
THE 28TH ANNUAL SUN VALLEY CENTER WINE AUCTION
Bring sunscreen, shades and dancing shoes because the 2009 lineup includes Elephant Revival, Thao with the Get Down Stay Down, Low-fi, Hillfolk Noir, Portland Cello Project, and Free Peoples. Vendors are on site selling food, beer and wine. Participate in some experimental educational opportunities while enjoying a great view and rocking tunes. Everyone has fun and proceeds benefit a good cause; the 2009 beneficiary is the Stanley Community Library. July 25, $25 adv., $30 day of show, $20 seniors (60 and older), children 12 and younger FREE, $10 per vehicle to camp, Pioneer Park, Stanley, Idaho, www.sawtoothmusicfestival.com.
S a w t o o t h M u s i c Fe s t i v a l
The popular fair in a beautiful setting sells only handcrafted items with food available for sale. July 18-19, Stanley, Idaho. For more information, e-mail sawtoothmountainmamas@gmail.com.
S a w t o o t h M o u n t a i n M a m a ’ s A r t s A n d C r a f t s Fa i r
The 11 musicians from Venezuela, Ireland, Cuba and Scotland perform a unique blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz with salsa music and Scottish bagpipes. They perform on instruments ranging from brass, bagpipes, fiddles and congas. July 18, 7 p.m., $20 general; $5 children 12 and younger, Hop Porter Park, Hailey, www.salsaceltica.com.
S a l s a C e lt i c a
The monthly performing arts series kicks off with a featured performer followed by an open stage, where the public can sign up to perform. The schedule is every third Thursday. July 16: Hickory Blue featuring Courtney Lloyd; Aug. 20: The Mighty Shims featuring Fletcher Brock; Sept. 17: Tony Evans and Friends Writers’ Cooperative; Oct. 15: Tim East, Heavy Piano. Check the Web site for a complete schedule. 7 p.m., $5 general; FREE for youth age 15 and younger, Main Street Bistro, 107 S. Main St., Hailey, 208-788-6047, www.haileywordsandmusic.com.
Hailey Words And Music
Sip on a gimlet, the event’s signature drink garnished with fresh mint from the garden, during the major fund-raising event for the Sawtooth Botanical Garden. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a live auction and slip over to place a big bid for goods and services in a silent auction. Proceeds benefit educational programs sponsored by the Sawtooth Botanical Garden. July 18, Sawtooth Botanical Garden, 11 Gimlet Road, Ketchum, 208-726-9358, www.sbgarden.org.
Gimlets in the Garden
The cross-country and marathon race sponsored by Knobby Tires Series (www.knobbytireseries.com) includes double track, single track, creek crossings, flats and climbs, all with scenic mountain views. July 25, 8:30 a.m., $10-$45, Galena Lodge, northern end of the 19-mile Harriman Trail, 24 miles north of Ketchum on Highway 75, 208-726-4010, sites.google.com/site/galenalodge.
Galena Grinder
The Elkhorn neighborhood in Sun Valley is the site for a series of concerts. The first is by G. Love and Special Sauce on July 16; the Drive-By Truckers on Aug. 13; and Big Head Todd and the Monsters on Sept. 3. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the concert wraps by 10 p.m. Individual tickets are $37.50 plus tax or $100 plus tax for the whole series. Elkhorn Village Center, 95 Badeyanda Drive, Ketchum, users.bandzoogle.com/elkhornconcerts.
Elkhorn Summer Concert Series
The regularly held benefit concert series produced by Figgleaf Productions (figgleafproductions.com) raises money for different charities and organizations. The money raised is split between a beneficiary and the band. The lineup includes June 24: Finn Riggins; July 1: Up a Creek; July 8: Kim Stocking Band; July 15: Cosmic Beans; July 22: Hat Trick, Piers Lamb, No Cheap Horses; July 29: 812 Band; Aug. 5: The Damphools; Aug. 12: Whiskey Burnin’; Aug. 19: Slow Children Playing; Aug. 21: a special back-to-school event with music by Disciples of Rock and Hoodwink; and Aug. 26: FourStroke Bus. The Wicked Spud, 305 N. Main St., Hailey, 208-788-0009.
B a c k A l l e y Pa r t i e s
Free events throughout the month of July include art walks, concerts, farmers and artist markets and theater productions. The Art Walk on July 17 from 5-8 p.m. is a chance to gaze at fine art and sip wine. Throughout Hailey.
A Month Of Art In Hailey
The Folk Festival Friendship Quilt is back this year and the drawing is at 8 p.m. on Aug. 1. The theme for this year’s quilt is “Celebrate the Wood River Valley.” July 31-Aug. 1, $12 Friday; $18 Saturday, or advance two-day ticket for $25, Hop Porter Park, Hailey, www.nrff.net.
GET OUT Sun Valley offers escapes for recreationists BY KENT LAVERTY
hile the promise of art-filled galleries, high-end boutiques and world-class restaurants may be alluring, there’s one feature of the Sun Valley area that refuses to be ignored: the breathtaking natural landscape. From towering mountains to rolling hills to rivers that meander through groves of aspen trees, it’s hard not to be lured outdoors when visiting the area. Our advice? Don’t fight it. Dive in with all the power of your recreation dreams. The area is a gateway to incredible hiking trails. Many think first of the Sawtooth Mountains, but the Pioneer Mountains to the east of Sun Valley, the Boulder and the Smoky mountains north of Ketchum provide easy and ample opportunity to get out in the backcountry. Of course, the choices of trails and activities can be a little overwhelming, so here are some of our favorites.
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HIKING Pioneer Cabin Loved by locals, the four-mile Pioneer Cabin Trail is incredibly beautiful, somewhat challenging because of its switchbacks and steepness, and only a few miles from town. The cabin sits at 9,400 feet, just below a ridge opposite a view of the 11,000- to 12,000-foot-tall Pioneer Mountains. Reminiscent of a scene from the Sound of Music, you will never forget the sight. The cabin the trail gets its name from was built by the Union Pacific Railroad in 1937, and the stories of the hikers and skiers are etched in the journals kept inside. The more heavily used and recommended access is five miles east of Sun Valley, then about three and a half miles up Corral Creek Road. The trail climbs steeply at first, through beautiful old-growth fir forest, then winds along open ridges with wonderful views to the north of the Boulder Mountains. If your timing is right, you’ll be able to see Indian paintbrush, lupine and penstemon, among the many wildflowers in the area. The trail has a 2,500-foot elevation gain over four miles. But the reward is far greater than the pain. This is a favorite lunch spot for summer hikers in the Sun Valley area, so put it on your to-do list.
Norton Lakes The Norton Lake trail is another quick getaway, this time into the Smoky Mountains. This is a good day hike for inexperienced hikers—only two miles one way. The beauty of the lakes is wondrous. The sheer rock cliffs surrounding this destination frame a backcountry getaway that is hard to beat. Bring your fishing rod because the lakes are full of trout. To get there, drive north of Ketchum to Baker Creek Road (just more than 15 miles and turn left. Travel six miles on a good dirt road, and turn right on Norton Creek Road. From there, it’s just more than one mile to the trailhead.
Boulder City and Boulder Basin This hike is both interesting and historic. Boulder City is an old mining settlement in the Boulder Basin at the base of the Boulder Mountains north of Ketchum. It’s accessible by foot, horse, mountain bike or a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. We recommend parking at the creek crossing, but the more adventurous can drive the rough, steep road to the trailhead and parking area at the mouth of the canyon. Drive north of Ketchum 12.5 miles and turn right on Boulder Creek Road, located at the top of Phantom Hill. After one mile, turn right at the sign indicating Boulder Basin. Go another mile and you’ll come to the creek crossing. You can park here or continue on to the trailhead and parking area at the mouth of the canyon another mile up the road. If it’s early in the year, the water may be high on the trail, since Boulder Creek crosses the trail a few times. After some pine forest and meadows, you’ll see a junction and an easy walking road to the left. This leads to the remains of the historic Boulder City, built in the 1890s, where old cabins and dilapidated buildings still stand. Beyond, the Boulder Basin winds up and around and is exceptionally beautiful.
BIKING Wood River Trails Bike Path Known by locals simply as “the bike path,” this system of paved bike routes links Ketchum, Sun Valley, Hailey and Bellevue. The old Union Pacific Railroad route paralleled Highway 75, but was retired in the 1970s. The Blaine Country Recreation District was formed shortly thereafter, which created a splendid example of “rails to trails” within the Wood River Valley. The best part of this system runs from Ketchum past East Fork Road south of Ketchum (about six miles). This portion of the route is mostly away from Highway 75 and runs near shimmering cottonwood and aspen trees. Two old railroad bridge crossings add to the diversity of this segment. The other paved portions connect Ketchum to Sun Valley and Elkhorn. A new portion runs past Sun Valley up Trail Creek Canyon. For those who are seeking some hills for a workout, the view of the Boulders from the top of Elkhorn hill is spectacular.
Bald Mountain Take the lift up and ride down from the top of Bald Mountain. At the top, wildflowers, breathtaking views and clean air await bikers. The trails are wide and not too steep, making the ride available for both experienced and novice riders. Single-ride lift tickets cost $15, or $20 for an all-day pass. Children age 12 and younger are half price.
Adams Gulch K E TC H U M O N T H E F LY
C L OT H I N G s G E A R s A DV E N T U R E S
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Adams Gulch is a canyon just one mile north of Ketchum and is accessible both from Warm Springs Road and Adams Gulch Road. It’s a sunny canyon with something for everyone: striking views, creek crossings, uphills, downhills, wildlife, wildflowers, beautiful homes, National Forest land, open hillside and dense forest. Two biking loops await, one 5.5 miles long, and the other 14 miles long. If you’re still confused about where to go, try asking at one of the local outdoors stores; the employees are full of information.
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SOUNDS OF THE SEASON Music ďŹ lls the Wood River Valley in free and low-cost concerts BY DELLA SENTILLES
un Valley isn’t just a playground for the athletically inclined. In the summer, the valley is also host to an incredible line up of concerts featuring artists from all around the world. The best part is that most concerts are affordable and, sometimes, free. Sun Valley Center for the Arts is always raising the bar, and this summer is no exception. The center began its annual concert series in June, and continues in July with Salsa Celtica, a unique Scottish group blending salsa music with traditional Scottish sounds. Salsa Celtica boasts 11 musicians from across the globe—Venezuela, Ireland, Cuba and Scotland—and uses a mixture of instruments, including ďŹ ddles and congas. The concert takes place at Hop Porter Park in Hailey at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 18. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for kids. The summer concert series concludes with Donavon Frankenreiter and Mishka on Saturday, Aug. 15, at Atkinson Park in Ketchum. Mishka grew up in Bermuda and performs mostly reggae music while Frankenreiter incorporates his passion for surďŹ ng and fatherhood into his tunes. Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for kids. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit sunvalleycenter.org. Summer in Sun Valley is also when the Northern Rockies Folk Festival comes to town. This family friendly two-day event takes place Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1, and it will have everyone jamming. In its 32nd year, the festival will feature performances by Sun Valley locals like The Damphools and Kim Stocking Band, as well as national groups like The Blasters and The Gourds. The festival takes place at Hop Porter Park in Hailey, a family friendly location where picnic baskets, wine bottles and young ones are welcome. Tickets are $10 for Friday, $18 for Saturday or $25 for a two-day pass. For more information, visit nrff.net. Fortunately, not every event costs money. In fact, many concerts in Sun Valley are free during the summer. Starting Tuesday, June 30, and running through Friday, Aug. 25, is Ketch’em Alive, a weekly concert series that takes place every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Ketchum’s Forest Ranger Park on First Avenue. The music is eclectic, and watching the locals dance is an absolute must. There is also Jazz in the Park on Sundays, featuring local and not-so-local performers. The concerts take place at Rotary Park across from the Wood River YMCA every Sunday from June 21 through July 26. A local favorite is the Sun Valley Summer Symphony, a series of free outdoor concerts featuring classical music, opera and some musicals. The symphony is celebrating its 25th anniversary and its second year at the state-of-the-art Sun Valley Pavilion. There is nothing quite like ending the day by listening to Brahms and Mozart while taking in unbelievable views of Bald Mountain, especially with a nice glass of pinot grigio. Concerts take place Monday, July 27, through Tuesday, Aug. 18. For a complete schedule, visit svsummersymphony.org. And last, but not least, is a new event this year. Elkhorn Village is rekindling its own concert series with a lineup that’s sure to impress. The series kicks off on Thursday, July 16, with G. Love and Special Sauce, followed by the Drive-By Truckers on Thursday, Aug. 13. Finally, Big Head Todd and the Monsters will ďŹ nish things off on Thursday, Sept. 3. All concerts begin at 6 p.m. in the parking lot next to the Elkhorn golf club. Tickets cost $37.50 plus tax, or $100 for the whole series, and are available at Atkinsons’ Market in Ketchum or the Market at Elkhorn.
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ON THE ICE Olympic stars hit the rink in Sun Valley BY DELLA SENTILLES
utdoor ice skating in the summer may sound like a wet prospect, but Sun Valley Resort is home to an all-seasons outdoors skating rink with Bald Mountain as its backdrop. While kids and adults can have their day on the ice, they can also see some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best ďŹ gure skating stars on that very same ice. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like watching the Olympics a couple of years early, in your own back yard and without any of those controversial judges. In the past, Sun Valley Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ice rink has hosted super skaters like Peggy Fleming, Tai Babilonia and Randy Gardner, and Dorothy Hamill, to name a few. This year, more gold medalists are set to perform. On Saturday, July 4, catch 2009 U.S. champions Meryl Davis and Charlie White. Then on Saturday, July 11, Olympic gold medalist Brian Boitano will take the ice. The season ends with ďŹ gure skating power couples Marie-France Dubreuil and Patrice Lauzon, as well as Kimberly Navarro and Brent Bommentre, the 2008 U.S. bronze medalists. As of press time, the schedule has yet to be completed, so for an up-to-date list, visit sunvalley.com. All shows begin at dusk and can be seen either from the bleachers ringing the ice rink or the sunroom terrace of the lodge, complete with dinner and a dessert buffet. Prices vary from $32 to $62 per person. The professional skaters often practice on the ice during the day, and they can be seen from the porch of Gretchenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant at Sun Valley Lodge. Order lunch, sip some iced tea and take in the show for free. For complete details or to make a reservation, visit the Web site or call 208-622-2800.
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MATT LEIDECKER
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