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They have a fine selection of new books, including an area devoted to McSweeney's publications. They also have a great collection of used books at a reasonable price. There are plenty of books devoted to Hemingway as well. Every biography, critical study and book written by Hemingway is available for people to purchase. I also found a helpful book that details Hemingway's life in Idaho. It lists the bars, restaurants, and residences he used while visiting and living in the area.

The staff is very helpful and also knowledgeable of the area. For more information on what is available, check out their website or give them a call at 877-726-1564.

On the morning of July 2, 1961, Ernest Hemingway committed suicide. He had lived in Ketchum for two years, trying to rest after having two bad airplane accidents in Africa. He found himself depressed, with years of injuries catching up to him. He tried electroshock therapy at the Mayo Clinic, but back in Ketchum, he found he was unable to write. This led to his decision to commit suicide with a shotgun.

The grave is simple and plain, which seems to fit an author who was so celebrated for his unordained writing. Spending a quiet moment there and paying tribute to one of America's greatest authors is a worthy way to spend an afternoon. It might even be fitting to do a shot of whiskey in his honor. But don't let a drop fall to the ground. Hemingway wouldn't want to see alcohol wasted.

The memorial is along the Trail Creek bike path. It is rather difficult to find with a car. If heading north on Main Street in Ketchum, turn right on the Sun Valley Road / Trail Creek Road headed towards the lodge. Stay on this road past the lodge. It is about a mile after the lodge on the right. A half-moon parking lot marks where to get off the main road. The memorial is not visible from the road or the bike path. A walk of about a hundred feet reveals the memorial.

We camped in an aspen grove near the entrance. Each campsite provides a nice area for pitching a tent, grill, fire pit, and picnic table. A very quiet campground with plenty of space between sites. There seemed to be a lot of sites available, maybe 50 or so. There are also some sites available along the river that would be very ideal. take time and drive around the entire campground. There are also camp hosts available during the summer months who are willing to answer questions about the area. There are also pit toilets available which were very clean. Running water is available from a pump.

The nicest part was hiking near the river and finding a spot to read some Hemingway. One can imagine him with a fly rod in hand spending a day in the sun. This campground is a good distance from Ketchum. Not too far, so that if anything, you can drive into town, but far away enough to feel like you are out in nature. A perfect place to spend time in Hemingway country.

I have also heard that the home is open one day a year to the public on Hemingway's birthday, July 21. However, I was too late to attend and take up this opportunity. I did not try contacting the Nature Conservancy directly, however. Maybe they would be willing to set up a tour individually. Their phone number is: (208) 726-3007