About Backwoods Mountain Sports
Backwoods Mountain Sports occupies a prime position at the north end of Ketchum's Main Street, serving as the go-to outfitter for adventurers who want to explore beyond the resort boundaries and get deeper into central Idaho's extraordinary backcountry. While many shops in the valley focus primarily on skiing and road cycling, Backwoods caters to a broader outdoor audience with a diverse rental fleet and genuine expertise in the wilder corners of the Sawtooth and Pioneer mountain regions.
Mountain bike rentals form the core of their summer operation, with a fleet that handles the varied terrain of the Wood River Valley's trail network — from smooth, flowy singletrack to rocky, technical mountain descents. E-cruisers provide a more relaxed option for casual riders and tourists who want to explore the valley's paved paths and scenic roads without the fitness demands of traditional cycling. For water adventures, rafting gear rentals equip guests for float trips on the Salmon River and other nearby waterways, providing everything needed for a day on the water. Camping essentials round out the rental offerings for visitors planning overnight backcountry trips.
The full-service repair shop is a critical resource for both visiting and local cyclists, handling everything from basic tune-ups and flat fixes to complete bike overhauls and suspension service. Cross-country skis and snowshoes are available in winter for backcountry exploration.
Perhaps the most valuable service Backwoods provides is the trail knowledge of their staff. Every employee is an active outdoor enthusiast who knows the surrounding area intimately, and they function as an informal conditions desk — pointing visitors toward the best singletrack for their ability level, recommending river runs based on current water conditions, and suggesting overnight camping spots in the Sawtooth region that most visitors would never discover on their own.
