Winter Wanderlust

Raise your hand if you've ever looked up into a brilliant-blue August sky. Or down into crystal sheathed waters of a hidden stream. Or straight ahead of you upon a snow-capped mountain glinting in the February sun. Chances are, if you've ever passed through blazing western lands on your way to California, or were fortunate enough to be born into a cute little town in the southern basin of Idaho, you raised your hand in answer to all three. This winter in San Francisco, with the inevitable rain showers and bone-tingling chill, try heading to a new spot; a spot less traveled. Southern Idaho is home to three of the most lovely, welcoming, quaint towns this side of the Mississippi, respectfully named Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley. Bundle up and take the horse-drawn sleigh from Sun Valley to Trail Creek Cabin for a delicious dinner, throw on an old pair of figure skates and join the pros at Sun Valley Lodge for an amazing night of twists and spins, or head to Dollar Mountain amidst freshly fallen snow to watch the Torchlight Ski Parade light up the cold winter sky. And of course, get ready to sport your most fashionable of outdoor attire atop Bald Mountain where you will careen alongside skiers from all over the world. And for all of those "non-snow-bunnies," not to worry, there are a multitude of art galleries, independent restaurants, boutiques, and jewelry shops to capture your fancy. The Gail Severn Gallery, Globus Restaurant & Wine Bar, Burnsie's Boca boutique, and Jensen and Stern jewelers are just a few of the area's best. From indoor-lovers to outdoor-lovers, from the adventuresome to the conventional, every San Franciscan will fall in love with these charming mountain towns. Visit www.sunvalley.com for more information.

~Courtney O'Kane~

photo: www.visitidaho.org