Hiking the Bigwood Connector to White Clouds Trail (in Sun Valley, Idaho)

Late in the hiking season, with the weather still warm, it felt like the perfect time to hike the Bigwood Connector Trail to the top of the White Clouds Trail in Sun Valley, Idaho. Trying to be climate-friendly, we began this hike from downtown Ketchum, Idaho, walking north on the Wood River Trail (a multi-use path). When we saw the Bigwood golf course, we crossed the highway (carefully) and meandered through its residential area until we spotted the Bigwood Connector trailhead on Telemark Road. As we began to hike these trails, I might have been afraid of rattlesnakes or bears appearing.

I should note that when one looks for these trails online, on maps, or on trail markers, these trails can be labeled with different trail names. Thus, part or all of these trails might be labeled Sellgren’s Trail, White Clouds, White Clouds Loop, White Clouds Nine, etc. But these trails seem so easy to find and hike that I just pull up any map and follow it.

While this hike might initially look a bit barren, I find it incredibly meditative (once I stop imagining potentially dangerous wildlife). Also, more diverse topography reveals itself as the hike progresses. We missed out on wildflower season, yet there were surprises.

This view is one of the most beautiful surprises. I wanted to capture the Aspens before they lost their leaves. Autumn is a very short season in these high desert mountains.

These peaceful and gentle trails gain in elevation, yet they remain a pleasant hike. In fact, it feels as if I’m almost there each step of the way. Also, whichever destination we initially choose can change along the way, with other trails to select from as we go.

I kept trying to photograph everything, yet also keep hiking. We only crossed paths with a few hikers and mountain bikers. After we hiked to the top of White Clouds, we descended down its other (quick and easy) side via the White Clouds Valley View Trail. One can then easily walk across the road into the village of Sun Valley for food and drinks. This is especially wonderful for anyone who thinks as I do—I “forgot” to bring water on this hike because I thought it would be a much shorter hike than it actually is.