Ride Like a Local: Sun Valley, Idaho

Julian Tyo has lived in the Wood River valley for over a decade where he started the Ketchum bike park and managed the development of gravity trails on Bald Mountain and at Sun Valley Resort. Today he’s on the board of the Wood River Trails Coalition and also serves as the Community Recreation Supervisor & Events Manager for the city of Ketchum.

In this episode, we ask Julian:

• How did you end up in Sun Valley?
• What makes Sun Valley stand out among mountain bike destinations?
• Who builds and maintains the trails in your area?
• What are some of the challenges the Wood River Valley faces as a popular recreation destination?
• For someone visiting for the first time, what are 2 or 3 must ride trails or trail systems?
• What are the family-friendly rides, and which ones are the most challenging?
• What are some lesser-known trails where riders can get away from the crowds?
• Who are the tour operators or clubs visitors can connect with if they want to ride with locals?
• Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
• Is there camping available in the area? Are there bike-friendly hotels in town?
• What is the best time of year to visit? Are there any festivals or races visitors can plan to attend?
• Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?
• Is there anything else mountain bikers need to know before visiting Sun Valley?

For more information, and to support mountain biking in the Wood River Valley, visit woodrivertrailscoalition.org

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