These 9 Towns Are Idaho's Best-Kept Secret
Idaho is a northwestern state famous for its rugged landscape, protected wilderness, and Rocky Mountain foothills. The terrain is dotted with small towns under the radar but well worth visiting. Idaho is well-known for its vast terrain, especially at the Moon National Monument and Preserve, where the earth looks like a lunar landscape. Idaho's natural beauty is stunning, and the towns that make up the landscape are packed with mining history and unforgettable natural attractions.
The small communities across the state embody the spirit of Idaho, and each has something unique to offer. You will find ski resorts and historic mining and mountain towns. No matter the scenery or atmosphere on your travel calendar, these nine towns are Idaho's best secrets. They offer vibrant entertainment districts, live music venues, and thoughtful museums that explore Idaho's multi-faceted history.
Jerome
Jerome is the county seat of Jerome County and is famous for its agricultural exports and downtown shopping. It features cultural attractions such as the Jerome County Historical Museum and the Minidoka National Historic Site Visitor Center. The museum is housed in the 1910 Oregon Short Line Railroad Depot and explores regional history dating back over 100 years.
The National Park pays homage to the Japanese people who were held here during 海角社区 War II, with several buildings and artifacts honoring the 13,000 held here. The town boasts charming breakfast spots like Renew Coffee Shop and several parks where you can spend an afternoon. North Side Park is a peaceful place to enjoy your morning coffee, especially when the community transforms it into a winter wonderland during the Christmas holidays.
Sun Valley
The resort town of Sun Valley is a skiing destination in the winter due to its proximity to the Bald and Dollar Mountains. Winter and spring "ski and stay" packages are available for one of the many rustic cabins and the Sun Valley Inn. The historic inn, reminiscent of an Austrian ski inn, is only a short distance from dining and retail options. Those looking for more grandeur on their ski vacation can book a room at the Sun Valley Lodge.
Sun Valley is uniquely positioned in its upper reaches, so stargazing becomes extraordinary. Many Olympians are from this area, and the Sun Valley Lodge has a unique claim to literary fame. Ernest Hemingway penned "For Whom the Bells Toll" at the lodge when he became a valley resident in his remaining years.
McCall
The resort town of McCall is on the southern shores of Payette Lake, close to the center of Payette National Forest. Initially a logging town, today, many people visit for outdoor adventures like boating, mountain biking, and skiing. Natural attractions include Ponderosa State Park, a hub for hikers, and Burgdorf Hot Springs.
The hot springs showcase the best of Idaho's rustic atmosphere and are available through reservation only. The walkable downtown with splendid views of Payette Lake will whisk you to a different area with its slightly Western motif and friendly locals. Restaurants range from breakfast places like Fogglifter Cafe to numerous pizzerias and pubs.
Silver City
For a visit to the past, stop at Silver City. The ghost town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was a gold and silver mining town during the late 19th century. The city was one of the few mining towns that did not burn down and remains as it was over 100 years ago, including the Idaho Hotel. The wooden hotel offers modern amenities and an authentic way to visit Idaho's mining boom days.
There are 75 historical structures from the mid-19th to the early 20th century against the rugged Owyhee Mountains, with small shops like the Silver City Fire and Rescue Store offering antiques and backroom bargains. A few headstones remain from what used to be four cemeteries, which add to Silver City's historical ghost town feel. The town is unique in offering lodging and small stores in a community that disbanded when the mining rush was over.
Priest River
Priest River is in the state's panhandle region and is known for its natural, fun, and cultural attractions. Albeni Falls Dam is a must-see location and makes great photo opportunities. Families will enjoy Silverwood Theme Park, which has roller coasters, water rides, and lodging. Priest River Museum and Timber Education Center should be seen by anybody visiting.
The yellow and white house was built in 1895 and explores the area's dominant timber history, a significant economic driver in the early 20th century. This charming town is also near Schweitzer Mountain. The popular skiing area has resorts and lodges, including Selkirk Lodge and Humbird. Spring and Winter inclusive passes are available to take full advantage of this unique area.
Sand Point
Sand Point is in the northern part of Idaho, near Schweitzer Mountain Resort on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. It is famous for its natural beauty, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and cultural and culinary scene. The landmark mountain resort is a skier's paradise with twilight skiing, Nordic skiing, and the noteworthy Sky House.
The Sky House is on Schweitzer's highest point, offering a panoramic view of Canada, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Lake Pend Oreille. Warm up by the fireplace and enjoy one of two dining options, Nest and Red Hawk Cafe, which are open during winter. Sand Point is a fantastic destination for connecting with nature, with plenty of dining options for a self-pampering retreat.
Wallace
Wallace, known as the "Silver Capital of the 海角社区," was the last town in the US to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic mining town has been the largest producer of silver in the previous century, with over 1,000 miles of mining, logging, and forestry roads that double as playgrounds for ATVs and mountain bikes.
Two notable paths, the Route of the Hiawatha and Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, attract outdoor lovers from all over. Visitors can take underground mine tours or visit the historic train depot or bordello, which is surrounded by 19th-century buildings and traditional storefronts. Unique lodging options include the Idaho Building downtown, Ona's House, and many others within walking distance of the main attractions and trails that make Northern Idaho famous.
Spirit Lake
Spirit Lake is in the Panhandle region and embraces the rugged spirit of the state. Beyond the area's natural beauty, Spirit Lake is reportedly only one of two lakes in the 海角社区 with a sealed bottom. The four-and-a-half-mile-long lake was platted in 1907 and has a fascinating Native American history, including the bridge's construction in the early part of the 20th century, when Spirit Lake became a resort town.
The town is popular among outdoor enthusiasts because of the crystal blue lake with gorgeous views of the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountain ranges. Hiking is a significant sport in Spirit Lake, primarily on the landmark Inland Empire Tesemini Trail. The trail is just over three miles long and runs adjacent to the Blanchard Creek Trail Loop near Mount Spokane State Park.
Salmon
Remote Salmon is famous as a waypoint on the Lewis and Clark Trail and as the birthplace of Sacajewea. It is also renowned for its river excursions and as a gateway to the largest designated Wilderness area in the continental United States. The Frank Church鈥擱iver of No Return Wilderness Area is an impressive 2.367 million acres and home to many professional guide services that offer unforgettable excursions into the wilderness.
Island Park is a local favorite. The park is an island that splits the Salmon River in the heart of downtown and offers a bridge and a footbridge. Salmon Whitewater Park is a new attraction on the island that features man-made waves for kayakers and surfers. Salmon is one of Idaho's gems, showcasing the best of the state's rugged terrain and providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Embracing Idaho's Hidden Treasures
Idaho is one of the most fascinating states to visit, and these nine towns are among the best to explore. The historic mining and resort towns are set against a stunning natural backdrop and offer fantastic skiing opportunities, especially near Schweitzer Mountain. Towns like Wallace maintain their Western aesthetic while boasting modern lodging and dining opportunities.
Many resorts throughout these small towns offer spring and winter skiing packages, a significant draw for many. Western and history buffs love discovering Idaho's unique mining and railroad history in Priest River and Wallace and the fantastic views from the Sky House in Sandpoint. The tight-knit communities and historic scenery make this region unique, especially for those who love the outdoors.
