6 Towns In Idaho That Were Frozen In Time
The Pacific Northwest state of Idaho attracts around 37 million tourists each and every year. The big draw? While for many it鈥檚 Idaho鈥檚 spectacular scenery, others are drawn here to explore the many small towns that have managed to preserve their oldest buildings, at the same time offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the the Gem State鈥檚 pioneering past.
Together, these living museums bear witness not only to the resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage of Idaho's settlers but also to their historical significance. From mining boom towns to quaint and quiet agricultural settlements, each destination tells a unique story of human endurance and connection to the land. Find out why Idaho should be next on your list of places in the United States to travel to with these six towns that were frozen in time.
Wallace
Established in 1884, Wallace emerged as a critical silver mining hub in the Silver Valley, becoming one of the most productive silver regions globally. The entire downtown of Wallace was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966, making it the first historic district in the US to achieve this designation. Historic highlights here include the Oasis Bordello Museum preserved exactly as it was when abandoned in 1988 and the 1313 Club, a saloon bar set in the historic Heller Building from 1895.
The Northern Pacific Railroad Depot Museum, constructed in 1901, is another must-see that鈥檒l have you thinking you鈥檝e stepped back in time. Among its exhibits are fascinating tales of the region's mining and railroad history along with a large collection of artifacts and photographs documenting Wallace's economic transformation. Enjoy winter travel? Pop by in February to see the spectacular Extreme Skijor Competition, a unique event that combines skiing and ATV racing.
Idaho City
Idaho City, Idaho. Tourist visitor center and information directional signs during snowy season in town center. Editorial credit:
Founded in 1862 during the Boise Basin Gold Rush, Idaho City was once the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. Those days, however, are long gone. Today it serves as a living relic of the Gold Rush era with many of its original structures still intact. Highlights of a visit include exploring the Boise Basin Museum, located in a former schoolhouse with artifacts and exhibits on the events of the Gold Rush and the town鈥檚 early history. The Idaho City Historic Walking Tour is a must-do and includes the Ponderosa Saloon from 1864 and the Miners Exchange Building, built in the 1860s and one of the first brick buildings constructed in town. It鈥檒l also lead to the Idaho City Pioneer Cemetery, dating back to the 1860s and the final resting place of many early settlers who helped shape the region.
Surrounded by the Boise National Forest, Idaho City is also a great place to visit if you enjoy the great outdoors. Highlights of this 2.6 million acre scenic area include countless hiking trails as well as a sprinkling (literally!) of hot springs
Challis
Ruins of the abandoned Bayhorse Ghost Town in the Salmon Challis National Forest of Idaho.
Challis was founded in 1878 and is every inch the quintessential Idaho mountain town. Positioned in a high desert valley near the border with Montana and surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges, this must-visit town has maintained its historical character through careful preservation, with a standout being the North Custer Museum on Main Street. Around since 1976, it documents the area's rich mining and Native American history through fascinating exhibits and memorabilia. Nearby Bayhorse Ghost Town, just past the Land of Yankee Fork State Park, a well-preserved mining settlement from the 1870s, will also have you feeling that you鈥檝e popped back in time.
You鈥檒l get the feeling you鈥檝e been transported to the early years of the automobile if you visit during June鈥檚 Challis Classy Chassis car show, a fun occasion with live music and vendors. And be sure to spare a moment or two for a visit to the neighboring Salmon River and Sawtooth Mountain range, a dramatic backdrop that has remained largely unchanged since the town's founding.
Silver City
Old Building in Silver city, Idaho.
One of Idaho鈥檚 best-preserved ghost towns, Silver City was established in 1864 in the Owyhee Mountains and certainly ranks up there in terms of its feeling that little has changed since its early years. This former silver mining hub retains more than 75 original buildings from its heyday, including the Idaho Hotel, opened in 1863 and still great for an overnight stay. The Silver City Schoolhouse (built in 1892) and St. Joseph鈥檚 Catholic Church (1898) also offer a fascinating glimpse into daily life during the region鈥檚 mining boom.
The town鈥檚 relatively remote location and the fact it鈥檚 surrounded by rugged mountain scenery certainly add to its allure. Visiting Silver City is akin to stepping back in time, as modern amenities are intentionally absent to preserve the historical atmosphere.
Riggins
Time change bridge over the Salmon River in Riggins, Idaho.
Riggins was founded in 1897 as a critical transportation and supply hub for mining and logging operations in the rugged mountainous regions of central Idaho. Located at the confluence of the Little Salmon and Main Salmon Rivers, a good place to start exploring is the Salmon River Heritage Center. This great attraction documents the area's complex Native American and early pioneer relationships, as well as the town鈥檚 mining and logging history. From here, you can embark on the easy-to-follow Salmon River Heritage Walking Tour which takes in a series of plaques and landmarks related to the town鈥檚 past.
Though a 30-minute drive from town, the White Bird Battlefield Overlook - Nez Perce National Historical Park is a significant historical landmark commemorating an 1877 conflict between Native Americans and US military forces. May is a good time to visit as it sees the town celebrate its western roots at the Riggins Rodeo featuring displays of traditional cowboy skills and celebrating the region's ranching culture. Be sure to allocate time to explore the surrounding countryside, consisting of a picturesque steep river canyon and the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest.
Clayton
A single yellow cotton wood tree, and undergrowth in fall colors where the Salmon River rushes past near Clayton, in central Idaho.
Clayton is one of Idaho's most remote (and scenic) mountain settlements. Situated in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and home to just a handful of residents, Clayton seems to have preserved its original frontier character with little change since it was established in 1881. The Clayton Historical Association Museum is a must-visit and is housed in a restored building dating from the 1900s with exhibits about the town's mining, trapping, and early settler history.
You鈥檝e only got to venture a little outside of town, and you鈥檒l discover nearby ghost towns and abandoned mining sites that provide additional historical context about the region's past. If you do go, the surrounding Sawtooth Mountains and other vast wilderness areas provide a photo-worthy landscape that has barely changed since the town was founded.
The Final Word
These six living museums continue to encapsulate Idaho's fascinating historical roots. Carefully preserved, they present a unique opportunity to experience the Gem State as it would have been in the 1800s when they were first settled. And by celebrating their unique heritage, as well as encouraging visitors to learn more about them, these six towns that seem frozen in time are doing their bit to ensure that Idaho's rich cultural story continues to inspire and educate.
