Blaine County

Blaine County, Idaho is a great place for wilderness adventures. It is a prime tourist destination as it is home to the resort communities of Bellevue, Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley, Idaho. Known for its varied outdoor recreation opportunities, Blaine County is also a thriving county encouraging business development and containing flourishing communities.

Beginning as a mining boom area around 1862, the first permanent residents in Blaine County came to farm the land in 1879. The mining again boomed in 1880, and the entire Wood River Valley experienced an influx of miners and those who provided services for them.

While mining received the most press, the sheep industry was also an economic force in the 1880s. By 1910, Ketchum had become one of the largest sheep shipping centers in the United States. Each fall, the history of the sheep industry in the area is celebrated in the Annual Trailing of the Sheep. In 1936, the Sun Valley Resort was constructed and once again, Blaine County experienced a surge in population.

Due to its geographic location and the four different seasons experienced in Blaine County, the area has a varied natural environment, which is inviting to all individuals.
Known throughout the United States, Blaine County is an exceptional recreational area. With skiing in the winter and various outdoor activities in the summer, Blaine County is a year round recreation destination.

With its diverse history, environment and the opportunities for an unequaled quality of life, many individuals who have been attracted to Blaine County stay to live here on a full-time basis.

Other Online Resources

  • Blaine County
    Official site for Blaine County government.
  • Blaine County Recreation
    Official site for Blaine County department of Recreation.

    • Something not quite right? .