There is no other place quite like Sun Valley, America.s first .destination ski resort,. where the world.s first chairlift was engineered. Built in 1936, Sun Valley was borne out of the desire to bring the charm and magic of European ski resorts to the U.S. The .prodigy. of the Union Pacific Railroad, Sun Valley was built to enchant the nobility and celebrity of the day. Our lodging will be in the town of Ketchum, at the Best Western Tyrolean Lodge.an Austrian-style hotel in a picturesque setting overlooking Bald Mountain. It is the closest hotel to the River Run Lift and an easy walk to restaurants and shops in downtown Ketchum. Hotel amenities include newly renovated rooms, an outdoor pool and outdoor Jacuzzi, fitness room and game room. A variety of accommodations are available (see below).