More cross-country choices at Sun Valley - Idaho

Sunset, Nov, 1988

Long famous as a downhill ski resort, Sun Valley also has a good repertoire of crosscountry routes, over varied terrain. And recent additions to the nordic trail system now offer more choices to cross-country skiers, beginning or advanced as well as alternatives for those who just want a break from the downhill crowds. All five of the Sun Valley cross-country areas listed here have groomed and tracked trails with skating lanes. And all five offer rentals and lessons.

Bigwood Nordic Center About half of Bigwood's 15 kilometers of trails take you along the fairly level Bigwood Golf Course. The rest offer short climbs into the foothills (a bit more of a workout) or cross the valley to connect with the 4-kilometer Wood River Trail a public trail maintained by the Blaine County Recreation District. A one-day trail pass (also good at Warm Springs Nordic) is $7.

Elkhorn Village. Ten kilometers of easy trails take you around and about this resort a mile east of Sun Valley. While the trails don't take you into the wilderness, they're a great way to sightsee in town. A one-day trail pass costs $6 for adults, $3 for ages 12 and under.

Galena Lodge. Winding through Sawtooth National Forest, Galena's 45 kilometers of trails seem light-years from busy Sun Valley, though Galena is actually only 22 miles to the northwest on State Highway 75. Trails start at 7,300 feet (Sun Valley is at 6,000), and some climb as high as 7,900 feet. There are plenty of choices; you can opt for an easy beginner's loop, or go for a workout burn with a climb up infamous Psycho Hill. A one-day trail pass costs $9.50 for adults, $6 for ages 6 through 12. For bus service to Galena, call Town and Country Scenic Tours in Sun Valley; their

phone number is (208) 726-7109.

San Valley Nordic Center Forty kilometers of trails crisscross the valley floor, leading through the resort, over to the nearby town of Ketchum, and into the undeveloped upper valley One trail leads to Trail Creek Cabin a cozy 1930s cabin where hungry skiers can enjoy a hot lunch or dinner. Five kilometers of groomed tracks for children adjoin the regular trails. A one-day trail pass costs $8 for adults, $4 for ages 6 through 12.

Warm Springs Nordic Center. Tucked under the shadow of Baldy Mountain, Warm Springs' 10 kilometers of easy touring lanes meander along the Warm Springs Golf Course. The most challenging spot is a lighted 1-kilometer track just outside the rental shop; here casual citizen races are held every Tuesday evening at 6. Once around the track with a bunch of amateur racers and you're ready for dinner at the Warm Springs Ranch Restaurant, which overlooks the course. A one-day trail pass (also good at Bigwood Nordic) is $7. Other choices. Besides the five commercial cross-country ski facilities, choices include 35 kilometers of public trails around the valley, maintained by the Forest Service and Blaine County Recreation District. They're identified in the free Sun Valley Cross-Country Map and Guide, available in most local sporting goods stores. Or pick up a copy at the Sun Valley Ketchum Chamber of Commerce, Fourth and Main streets in Ketchum; (800) 634-3347.