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Galena Lodge (Wood River Valley Area)
Galena Lodge is a winter and summer resort located in Idaho's Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Galena can thank a rich history of mining, sheep herding and logging for much of its trail system. Galena has a colorful history dating back to the late 1870's when the first mining claims were made in the area. The name "Galena" refers to basic ore, largely made of lead mixed with silver, found here in the Senate and Gladiator mines. In 1879, Galena was a thriving community of 700 people; by 1890, it was a ghost town. During summer, the lodge offers mountain biking and hiking, dining, a full-service outdoor and rental shop, guided tours and bike lessons. Winter brings to the lodge Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, dining, yurt rentals, and more. Galena has become a destination for cross country skiers seeking the beauty of the Boulder mountains, open meadows, challenging hills and powder slopes. Described by Snow Country as "arguably the best cross country ski trail system in the United States," the North Valley Trails was created in 1992 by the Blaine County Recreation District with help from a dedicated group of volunteers committed to quality, affordable skiing in the northern Wood River Valley. The North Valley Trails system is 100 kilometers of groomed ski trails stretching for over 20 miles between Ketchum and Galena Lodge. Trails are groomed for both skating and classic skiing with 36 kilometers open to doggies with their owners. There are also several trails just for snowshoers.
At a Glance
| Open Season: | January |
|---|---|
| Closest Towns: | Ketchum, ID |
| Water: | Drinking Water |
| Restroom: | Flush |
| Operated By: | Galena Lodge. Call 208-726-4010 for more information or visit: www.galenalodge.com or www.bcrd.org. |
Activities
Day Hiking
The Harriman trail begins eight miles north of Ketchum at the Sawtooth National Recreation Area Headquarters, and gains a gentle 1200 ft. in elevation as it winds its way north and west to Galena Lodge. It follows the course of the Big Wood River, alternating through spacious meadows, aspen stands and lodgepole forests, always with the majestic Boulder Mountain Range as a scenic backdrop. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, fishing and observing birds and wildlife, and horseback riding from Baker Creek north. In winter, the trail is groomed for Nordic skiing, serving as a vital link in the North Valley Trails system. Other North Valley Trails include Grinder Loop, Psycho, Rip and Tear, Cherry Creek Loop, Titus lake, Old Toll Road, and Gladiator Pass Trails.