Overview

Shepherding isn’t just an ancient livelihood or a Biblical pastime. In fact, it’s a real part of Idahoan heritage. Every autumn, the award-winning Trailing of the Sheep Festival honors the tradition of sheep ranching in Idaho and the west. Every fall for 150 years, sheepherders in the region have been driving their sheep through the Wood River Valley, moving their herds from summer pastures in the mountains to milder lowland areas for winter grazing and lambing. The sheep used for the trials have only lived with their guardian sheepherder and dogs for months, so they provide the border collies with a unique challenge.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Sheep Parade. Onlookers witness 2,000 sheep waddle down Main Street in Ketchum! The main event is the sheepdog championship trials, but guests can also participate in gourmet cooking, felting and photography workshops. Peruvian and Oinkari Basque dancers entertain, as do Boise Highlander bagpipers. After attending sheep shearing, spinning and weaving demonstrations, you’ll get a real understanding of the art of sheepherding!