
Galena Lodge
Rustic lodge and electricity-free yurts offering snowshoeing, skiing, and dining in Idaho's scenic Sawtooth National Forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh snow, pristine trails

Galena Lodge
Best Time
Fresh snow, pristine trails
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rustic lodge and electricity-free yurts offering snowshoeing, skiing, and dining in Idaho's scenic Sawtooth National Forest.
"Unforgettable experience! Loved the food, the beer and the atmosphere."

Book Yurts in Advance
Popular yurts book up fast, especially for weekend stays. Plan ahead! :calendar:
Rent Gear Early
Snowshoes and skis can be rented, but reserve at least 12 hours ahead. :snowboarder:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Snowshoeing Adventures
Various Trails
Explore groomed trails with stunning views, suitable for all skill levels. Cowboy Cabin and Valley View are popular choices.

Cozy Yurt Stays
Yurt Village
Sleep under the stars in a unique, electricity-free yurt. A truly memorable rustic experience.

Lodge Dining
Main Lodge
Enjoy delicious meals, from burgers to Cuban sandwiches, and warm drinks after your outdoor activities.

Nordic Skiing
Nordic Ski Trails
Hit the groomed trails for a classic or skate skiing experience. Perfect for winter fitness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Yurt Stays & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Yurts in Advance
Popular yurts book up fast, especially for weekend stays. Plan ahead! :calendar:
Rent Gear Early
Snowshoes and skis can be rented, but reserve at least 12 hours ahead. :snowboarder:
Trail Grooming Varies
South-side trails might have less snow. Check conditions for best experience. :hiking_boot:
Cozy Up After Dark
Yurts are electricity-free; bring extra layers for chilly nights. :zzz:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Yurts in Advance
Popular yurts book up fast, especially for weekend stays. Plan ahead! :calendar:
Rent Gear Early
Snowshoes and skis can be rented, but reserve at least 12 hours ahead. :snowboarder:
Trail Grooming Varies
South-side trails might have less snow. Check conditions for best experience. :hiking_boot:
Cozy Up After Dark
Yurts are electricity-free; bring extra layers for chilly nights. :zzz:
Don't Miss the Fries!
The cheeseburger, grilled cheese, and bratwurst are great, but the fries are a must-try! :fries:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Galena Lodge's beautiful snowshoeing and skiing trails, with many praising the well-groomed paths and stunning mountain views. The unique yurt stays and delicious lodge dining, especially the fries, are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects of the experience. Some minor drawbacks include narrow trails for advanced skiers and potential cold in yurts if not managed well.
"Great Snowshoeing trails and rentals too!
We did Cowboy Cabin and Valley View trails. They were well groomed and had good amount of snow. Valley View trail has the best views among these two, and Cowboy Cabin trail is relatively flat.
Trails on the south side had more dirt on them than snow."
Prakash Patil
"Unforgettable experience! We stayed at the honeymoon yurt for one night and had the Thursday evening BBQ. We loved the food, the beer and the atmosphere. Using the landline to make a phone call was really cool (even though the person we tried to call didn't pick up). We also did horseback riding and rented bikes. The only downside was freezing at night and the bed was not very comfy. Other than that totally recommend it! p.s.:They also have coffee worth drinking."
Adueze Anamaria
"Stayed at the Honeymoon Yurt for a few days, loved being able to ditch the car for 3 days and just ride in and out of the yurt. We received awesome trail recommendations at the bike shop and the cheeseburger, grown up grilled cheese and beer bratwurst were delicious!! Particularly the fries! Will be back!"
Gwénaëlle d'Aumale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Galena Lodge is located in the Sawtooth National Forest, accessible by car. The journey itself can be scenic, with mountain passes and lake views. It's about 25 miles north of Ketchum, Idaho. During winter, snow conditions can affect road access, so always check local road reports before you go.
Yes, Galena Lodge is a popular winter destination. Access is typically maintained, but snow tires or chains might be necessary depending on the weather.
The closest major airport is Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey, Idaho, which is about a 45-minute drive from Ketchum. Boise Airport (BOI) is a larger option, about a 3-hour drive away.
Yes, there is parking available at Galena Lodge. During peak winter season, it can get busy, so arriving earlier is recommended.
While there isn't direct public transportation to Galena Lodge, local shuttles operate in the Sun Valley area that can get you to Ketchum, from where you might arrange further transport or drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the lodge itself is generally free, but you will need to purchase trail passes for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing if you don't have a season pass. Rentals and lessons also have separate fees.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. In winter, the lodge and rental shop are typically open daily. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours of operation.
Trail access for snowshoeing usually requires a day pass. Rental costs for snowshoes and poles are additional. Prices can be found on the Galena Lodge website.
Yes, Galena Lodge offers rentals for snowshoes, cross-country skis, and mountain bikes. It's recommended to reserve rentals in advance, especially during busy periods.
Galena Lodge offers guided snowshoe tours and lessons for various skill levels. These are a great way to learn about the area and improve your technique.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Galena Lodge is a hub for outdoor recreation. Popular activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, Nordic skiing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. They also offer yurt stays and dining.
Yes, many of the trails, especially for cross-country skiing and popular snowshoe routes, are well-groomed. However, conditions can vary, and some trails might be narrower or have less snow depending on the season and location.
Staying in a yurt is a unique, rustic experience. They are electricity-free and offer a cozy retreat after a day outdoors. Some yurts are equipped with wood stoves for warmth.
Absolutely! Galena Lodge offers lessons and has trails suitable for beginners in both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The staff are helpful in recommending appropriate routes.
You can expect beautiful mountain scenery, especially from trails like Valley View. The lodge is situated in a picturesque setting within the Sawtooth National Forest.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Galena Lodge offers a full-service restaurant with hearty meals, including burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials. They are known for their delicious fries and comfort food.
Yes, there is a lodge restaurant that serves lunch and sometimes dinner, especially during special events like their Thursday evening BBQs.
While specific menus can change, the lodge often has options that can be adapted. It's always a good idea to inquire with the staff about dietary needs.
Travelers rave about the fries, the cheeseburger, the grown-up grilled cheese, and the beer bratwurst. They also serve good coffee.
Yes, the lodge restaurant serves a selection of beers and other beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The Valley View trail offers panoramic mountain vistas perfect for photos. The rustic yurts and the lodge itself also make for charming shots, especially with snow.
Absolutely! Winter landscapes offer unique photographic opportunities with snow-covered trees and mountains. Golden hour light can be particularly stunning.
For winter photography, a camera that handles cold well is essential. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for wildlife if you're lucky. Extra batteries are crucial as cold drains them quickly.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, always be respectful of other visitors and private property. For commercial photography, it's best to inquire with the lodge management.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, especially in the snow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a unique overnight experience, staying in a yurt can be an adventure in itself for children, offering a taste of rustic living. While the yurts are electricity-free, the novelty of sleeping in a cozy, heated space surrounded by nature can be very exciting for kids. Ensure you pack extra warm clothing and entertainment for evenings.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focusing on self-guided exploration of the snowshoeing and skiing trails can be very cost-effective. Many trails are accessible with just a trail pass, which is typically less expensive than guided tours or lessons. Consider visiting during off-peak times if possible, as some services might have slightly lower rates.
💑 Couples Retreat
Enjoy activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing hand-in-hand, taking in the breathtaking winter scenery. The rustic charm and natural beauty of the location create a perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Winter Activities at Galena Lodge
Beyond skiing and snowshoeing, the lodge offers a unique yurt experience. These rustic, electricity-free accommodations provide a cozy escape into nature. Imagine waking up surrounded by snow and then heading out for a day of adventure. The lodge also features a sauna, perfect for warming up after a day in the cold.
Planning your winter visit is key. Be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts, as snow levels can impact accessibility and trail quality. Booking yurt stays and equipment rentals in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The Galena Lodge Yurt Experience
Staying in a yurt allows you to ditch the car and truly disconnect. You can ride your skis or snowshoes directly to and from your yurt. While the experience is rustic, it's also incredibly charming. Waking up to the quiet beauty of the snow-covered landscape outside your yurt is an unforgettable part of the Galena Lodge adventure.
Booking a yurt requires advance planning, as they are a popular accommodation option. It's an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone looking for a unique lodging experience away from the ordinary. Remember to pack warm layers, as the yurts are unheated when the wood stove isn't actively burning.
Dining Delights at Galena Lodge
A standout item that receives consistent acclaim is the fries. Many reviewers highlight them as exceptionally good, making them a must-try when you visit. The lodge also offers warm drinks and desserts, like an almond flour chocolate chip cookie, perfect for a cozy afternoon break. For a special experience, consider attending their Thursday evening BBQ, which is noted for its great food, beer, and atmosphere.
Whether you're refueling after a strenuous ski session or enjoying a relaxed lunch, the food at Galena Lodge provides a satisfying culinary complement to the outdoor adventures. They also serve good coffee, which is always a plus!




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit