Sun Valley: the Back Way in
One of the fantastic things about Sun Valley is its uncrowded nature and easy-going atmosphere. This is partially due to its isolation. We aren’t very close to any major cities, we only have a small airport and most importantly, there is only one paved road in and out! That there is only one paved way doesn’t mean it is the only way, though. In a series of posts, we will explore your other options for getting to Sun Valley – the back way.
Trail Creek: Google sent you how?
A quirk of Google Map’s algorithm will send people coming from the north (only in the summer) over a one lane dirt road with 1000ft cliffs on one side and no guardrail. That Google would do this came as a surprise a few years ago when visitors told me about it- sometimes in an anxious voice. There is no question that hanging a right at Challis and going through Stanley is much faster. When people tell the tale, it goes one of two ways- either they were delighted in their unexpected adventure, or someone in the car was horrified and wished they had turned around, and will never go near it again.
The drive is beautiful. It is by far the most spectacular way to enter Sun Valley. If you have an appropriate car and a little extra time – I highly recommend it.
What Are You Driving?
The key part of all of this is having an appropriate car. The road is graded each year when it opens. You don’t need a high clearance vehicle or, unless it is raining heavily, 4 wheel drive. You do need something with a forgiving suspension and good tires. After the maintenance to start the season, that is all the attention this route gets from road crews, unless there is a collapse or a rock slide blocks the road. Each vehicle that drives on it, and each summer storm, erodes it and makes the surface worse. Washboard roads are always uncomfortable, but they get a lot more exciting when they are on narrow bends with near sheer drops. A vehicle will dance and slide sideways even at very moderate speeds if the suspension can’t keep up.
While a little extra sideways motion will get some passengers’ heart rate up, realistically it doesn’t represent a major danger. The problem is the falling and fallen rocks. You probably aren’t going to get crushed Wile E. Coyote style, but freshly broken-off rocks tend to be very sharp. It isn’t unusual to see vehicles, especially sportier SUVs with low profile tires, pulled over with a flat and no working spare. There is no cell coverage for much of the route so please be prepared! It is a long walk to get some help.
Be Prepared
The last things to consider are the 80 mile gap between fueling opportunities, slow speeds, rough roads, and elevation changes. These will all drastically decrease your fuel mileage. Be sure to plan appropriately.
Personally, I think Trail Creek Road adds a lot of character to any road trip. Once you are in Sun Valley, Trail Creek is the gateway to some fantastic and uncrowded hikes, lakes, waterfalls, old mines, and great camping. If you don’t have a car during your stay, or don’t think yours is up to the task, give Black Tie Ski and Bike a call – we are happy to rent you a Jeep or truck that will be perfect!
To check out all of summer adventure gear offered at Black Tie Bike Rentals Sun Valley or to make a booking, please visit https://www.blacktiebikes.com/sun-valley/.