In addition to its rich history and untamed beauty, Idaho is home to some of the most breathtakingly gorgeous ghost towns in the American West.
Countless aspirants were drawn to these deserted communities by the prospect of wealth and the chase after gold, only to disappear into hushed tales and empty buildings. These five abandoned communities serve as unsettling reminders of Idaho’s past:
Burke
Founded in 1887, this little city was formerly a thriving mining town. Regretfully, when multiple mines closed in the middle of the 20th century, the town began to collapse.
The village was formerly a bustling mining hamlet, but as the industry declined, the mines were eventually shut down. Most of the structures are still standing today, despite the mining ruins.
These buildings were constructed by the Hecla Mining Company as livable quarters for its miners. The deserted town still invites tourists to come explore. The 300-foot-wide old downtown area is more than three-quarters of a mile long.
The ruins of the mining village are open for tours by visitors to Burke. The addition of historic markers and environmental rehabilitation to the city’s eerie history is much appreciated.
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Bayhorse
Situated 14 miles southwest of Challis, Idaho, the ghost town of Bayhorse may be of interest to you if you enjoy mining and the Old West.
Situated in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, the community is conveniently reachable via U.S. 93. After traveling south on Idaho State Road 75, make a left onto Bayhorse Creek Road. You may reach Bayhorse Creek Road via this three-mile stretch of road.
While you’re here, you can explore Bayhorse’s abandoned buildings. Don’t forget to bring a first aid kit, lots of water, and snacks.
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De Lamar
Originally known as a mining settlement, the town of De Lamar was founded by Joseph De Lamar. The discovery of silver in the neighboring Owyhee Mountains had brought great prosperity to this hamlet.
The town’s population began to leave after the mining boom faded. Following World War I, there was a sharp decline in the price of silver, which seriously hurt the silver sector and caused the second wave of desertion.
Even though the town has been abandoned for many years, traces of the former mining sector can still be seen. These days, very few of the original structures remain.
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White Knob
This small community nestles between the White Knob Mountains and Mackay, Idaho. If you enjoy history, this is the ideal location for you to visit.
You will have the opportunity to tour a range of historical and cultural places while in the town. This little town has no contemporary activity presently, although it was formerly a thriving hub for ranching and mining.
Mountain bikers and hikers can reach a number of trailheads on the mountain. The Bureau of Land Management is responsible for maintaining the four-wheel-drive vehicle-friendly trails.
If you don’t feel safe traveling by car, you could like to rent a mountain bike and explore the White Knob ghost town from above.
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Gilmore
Gilmore was established in 1873 on the discovery of silver-lead ores. After its power plant burned down in the 1930s, the town finally vanished.
There were more than 600 people living in this once-bustling mining town. The community featured a post office, store, and bank. In 1928, it even boasted a sizable school with 71 students and a city park.
In less than a year, the town’s railroad was constructed entirely by hand. When in service, it transported ore across the Continental Divide.
There are mines, mining machinery, and abandoned buildings in the ghost town. You are welcome to tent on the host’s land or close by if you are just passing through.
To Conclude
Ghost towns in Idaho tell stories of a time when the wild west and fantasies of wealth drove these formerly thriving villages to flourish and fall. Visit the historical landmarks, mine ruins, and abandoned structures at Burke, Bayhorse, De Lamar, White Knob, and Gilmore.
For history aficionados, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a spooky adventure, each spot provides a window into Idaho’s mining past. So travel back in time and see the eerie splendor of Idaho’s ghost towns.
