Best Easy-to-Moderate Running Trails

Sun Valley features an incredible wealth of trail running options. There’s something for every ability. Here are some recommendations for an easy-to-moderate trail run (not too steep, technical, or remote). This is gleaned from the fab BCRD website, looking for routes of 3+ miles rated ‘easy’.

White Cloud Trails. Numerous easier options around the golf course. See separate post.

Lake Creek Trail. Easy surface and moderate climb, paralleling Rt. 142, on east side of Highway 75. It’s ~1,000 foot gain over 5 miles, average 3% grade. Trailhead 4 miles north of Ketchum. Information.

Fox Creek. Another good trail running option just north of Ketchum if you want to get in a hill climb on a good surface. This loop is mainly in the valley, with one 1,200 foot climb. Nice mountain and wildflower views. 6.8 mile loop. Information.

Titus Lake Trail. Near Galena Summit. Slightly narrower trail with great views. Shorter option is 3.4 miles out and back to Titus Lake, or entire trail is 5.4 miles one-way to Galena, losing nearly 1,500 feet elevation. ROUTE MAP

Greenhorn Valley Area. Series of interconnected trails. Many options of surface and ability. You can meander through grasslands or choose a more challenging option. Drive north of Ketchum on Highway 75, turn right on E. Fork Rd. to trailhead. Information.

Carbonate Mountain. A popular route in Sun Valley for those who want a climb and great views! The switchback trails option is 4.7 miles RT. Do it as a run/hike. Information.

Galena Lodge Trails. Galena Lodge is 24 miles north of Ketchum. There are miles of terrific trails here of varying abilities, as it is a XC Center in winter, open for mountain biking in summer. Information.

Quigley Farm Loop. In the Hailey area. Pretty trail around the farm. Parallels Quigley Rd. for half the route, then loops back along Quigley Creek. 4.2 mile loop, 642 foot gain. Longer run: can use Quigley Rd. for nearly 14 miles (but a major up and down).  Information.