Hailey can be explored through a variety of themes: local history and art offer a different perspective from the river landscape and recreational activities. The Blaine County Museum, several works of art, the Draper Wood River Preserve, and the Quigley Loop Trail provide specific points of interest to help you decide which side of the town is especially appealing for your trip.
History and Art in Hailey
The Blaine County Museum building was constructed from adobe bricks around 1887. The Blaine County Historical Museum also focuses on the region’s history: permanent exhibits cover settlers, the early industry of the Wood River Valley, and notable people and places in Blaine County. Together, these highlight both the building’s history and the people and developments of the region.
Historical information panels are located at 21 historic buildings in and near downtown Hailey. Another tangible reminder of the town’s history is the Sheep Sculpture at the northeast corner of Myrtle Street and Main Street. Jacob Novinger’s colorful artwork is made from recycled materials and commemorates the historic sheep migration route along Myrtle Street.
Prosperity Mountain stands at the northwest corner of Main Street and Walnut Street. The sculpture honors the heritage of the region’s Chinese immigrants. It was made mostly from repurposed materials, including old grizzly mesh from the Wood River Valley mining industry. At the top is the round “Lu” form, with the outline of a mountain below. Both forms derive from traditional ancient Chinese symbols and represent prosperity and wealth. The artworks in Hailey thus point to different chapters in the history of the town and region.
River Landscape and Plant Life
The Draper Wood River Preserve covers 124.41 acres and protects a 0.5-mile stretch of the Big Wood River. The Bow Bridge connects the two sides of the river; its large arrow also serves as a sundial. The Preserve’s habitat is home to ground squirrels, migrating waterfowl, elk, moose, and beavers. These species are associated with the area, but that does not mean you are certain to see them on any particular visit.
Access information is also useful for getting around: in addition to Lion's Park, the Draper Wood River Preserve has an ADA parking space. The path from there to the riverfront is level and surfaced with gravel. Check conditions before your visit. The Hailey Native Plant Arboretum offers a different focus on nature, showcasing native and drought-tolerant trees and plants that thrive in the region.
Trails and Recreational Activities
The Quigley Loop Trail is a 4.2-mile loop in Quigley Canyon, designated for cyclists, hikers, and horseback riders. During the summer months, the trail offers people of all ages and abilities opportunities to experience the landscape. If you plan your trip around the season, its summer focus is an important distinction from the historical and landscape themes described as available year-round.
Quigley Trails Park includes a pump track, jump lines, flow lines, and a skills area. Hailey Skate Park has a full pipe, a bowl, a street course area, and a restroom. These named recreational facilities differ in their specific features. Since operating conditions can change, it’s a good idea to check current conditions before visiting the skate park.
When considering Hailey as a travel destination, you can weigh these different focuses: the museum and artworks offer a look at the history of the town and region, while the Preserve, arboretum, and Quigley Loop Trail each offer their own perspective on nature and the landscape.
Discover more destinations: Triumph, Carey, Sun Valley, Ketchum.
Go to the main travel overview: Blaine.
