Hotel Ketchum is perfect for a dog-friendly vacay in the Idaho mountains. It is a motel-style hotel where the rooms are accessible from the outside, which is convenient when traveling with a pup. Because it is technically a motel, I wasn’t sure what to expect the rooms to look like. But I was pleasantly surprised by how clean and nicely decorated they were.
The property is split up between several buildings that are accessible by a small network of walkways that connect them. The lobby was in a separate building from our room, but just a quick walk away. Some of the walls are brightly painted, and you’ll find fluorescent ewe statues around the hotel’s buildings.
The lobby also reflects that unique and funky style. The furniture is modern with fun artwork and decorations, with a beautiful chandelier, caramel leather furniture, Idaho-themed artwork, and a wall of antlers — when in Idaho. There is even mountain-themed merchandise for sale, which of course we had to buy. They sell fun t-shirts, mugs, and neck buffs (with ewes on them) – which Cooper proudly wore.
Hotel Ketchum Highlight Reel
Dog-Friendly Getaway
A huge bonus of this hotel is that it’s dog friendly. Sun Valley is known for its incredible outdoor recreation and getting to enjoy it with a pup is the best! So, I was so excited to be able to stay at Hotel Ketchum with Cooper and enjoy all that this beautiful area of Idaho has to offer.
The rooms are clean, bright, modern… and dog friendly! The rooms have just enough of what humans need but aren’t over the top. But, honestly, you’re in Sun Valley to enjoy the outdoors. Often when staying in a dog-friendly room it can smelly musty, or like a dog. But not here. The room was fresh and clean.
The outdoor adventures in Sun Valley are abundant. However, I found it hard to find a dog-friendly restaurant. There are many restaurants near Hotel Ketchum, but only a small handful with dog-friendly patios. And unfortunately, since we were visiting in the spring, off-season it was too windy to eat outside, so Cooper had to stay in the room — which is allowed if they are in a kennel. The hotel only charges a $25 fee per dog, and allows up to two dogs per room. And they donate 10% of the pet charges to Mountain Humane, an animal shelter in a neighboring town.
The closest dog-friendly patio is Sawtooth Brewing, which is right across the street from the hotel. So, if the weather is nice, swing by for American-style fare and a beer!
There is a dedicated dog potty area with poop bags, which is convenient. But also found a small park just a couple of blocks away, which was also great for Cooper to sniff around and get in a little walk.
Hotel Amenities
The hotel lobby is a great space to hang out. Cooper even loved exploring this space, on a leash. Additionally, there’s a small library room upstairs for additional quiet time. You can also refill your water bottle here too.
Across from the lobby is the Hangout, which is where the free, and delicious, breakfast is served. This spot isn’t dog-friendly, so you’ll have to ditch the pup for breakfast. Little seating areas with high tops, tables, and couches are scattered throughout. This was something else that surprised me. The breakfast buffet was full of fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, French toast, cereal, juice, and other breakfast items. No disposable utensils and plates were found here either – which I loved!
In the summer there is a lively atmosphere in the outdoor, open space. Unfortunately, we visited in the spring, off-season. But now want to come back to enjoy the live music, yard games, and drinks in this space.
The heated pool and hot tub were appreciated during this visit. The pool was a nice space to enjoy the cool mountain air and views of the mountain peaks from the warmth of the water.
Hotel Surroundings
This hotel is in the best spot to catch all the downtown activity. It is right on the edge of downtown, placing you within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. I loved walking around and discovering things to see. On quieter days, many of the stores will allow a well-behaved dog inside. In the warmer months, you’ll see water bowls outside many shops for all the thirsty pups. So, check beforehand, but I was able to bring Cooper inside with me when shopping at some retail spots.
Just minutes away we checked out Adam’s Gulch for some hiking. It is just a 5-minute drive from the hotel. After driving through a residential area, you’ll come to a large parking lot at the base of the trailhead. There is a map outlining the trails which are also clearly marked. It was a great place for both dogs and humans to hike and view the stunning scenery. There is also an off-leash trail, which Cooper loved!
Another area I love for hiking is Galena Lodge. There is a huge dog-friendly trail system in this area, and the lodge serves incredible food and drinks. We love sitting on the dog-friendly patio and enjoying a snack or beverage after an outdoor adventure. In the winter the lodge is open as well – which is a great spot for snowshoeing. It was closed when I was there this spring, but it will be open starting in June, so check it out!
