Idaho’s rich history is reflected in its many well-preserved small towns, each with unique stories from the state’s early settlement period. With a colorful heritage shaped by a mix of Old West folklore, mining booms and busts, and frontier spirit, Idaho offers visitors glimpses into the past through its oldest established towns. From the gold rush era to conflicts with Native American tribes and pioneers carving lives from rugged lands, these antique small towns to visit in Idaho paint a vivid picture of lives and times long gone.

Exploring some of Idaho’s first founded small towns allows a step back in time to appreciate the foundations built by hardy settlers braving the Idaho frontier. Whether an indoor or outdoor enthusiast, remarkable experiences await in the following lovely localities of the Gem State.

Idaho City

Idaho City’s history dates back to its founding in 1862 during the Boise Basin gold rush. This rich history comes alive when you stroll through the Idaho City Historic District. The quaint neighborhood holds most of the city’s past secrets, well-preserved in a rich cluster of old buildings, museums, and old markets. Among the region’s highlights is the Boise Basin Museum, which delivers an exciting trip to the gold rush era through a fascinating display of artifacts. While immersing in the town’s mining heritage, visitors can discover cute antiques to add to your souvenir box at the Idaho City Trading Company.

Several eateries and watering holes make up a vibrant entertainment district in Idaho City, ensuring visitors can unwind after a long day exploring the town. The Gold Mine Grill is an excellent spot for first-timers, known for its tasty meals, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere.

Wallace

This quiet riverine community is in the heart of the Idaho Panhandle’s Silver Valley mining district. Wallace’s lovely downtown promises various fun experiences and encourages tourists to explore the town’s rich history. Booking a trip with the Sierra Silver Mine Tour provides a unique perspective of Wallace’s mining heritage during an exciting underground expedition. Visiting the Wallace District Mining Museum offers a vivid glimpse into the mining heydays by exhibiting numerous artifacts, old photographs, relics, and memorabilia from the period.

This historical experience continues at the Oasis Bordello Museum, which further presents hints of Wallace’s mining exploits. However, if you want a break from history, Sixth Street Theater & Melodrama stages entertaining live performances that will be an ideal alternative.

Montpelier

This small farming community in the Bear Lake Valley region of southern Idaho promises much to look forward to indoors and outdoors. Historically inclined visitors will gravitate towards the National Oregon/California Trail Center, whose various exhibits transport guests back to the historic Oregon Trail days. The Bank of Montpelier is a stark reminder of an infamous event in the town. The bank was the site of a publicized robbery by Butch Cassidy and his Bunch Gang in 1896. Despite this, it is the only bank in the United States to be robbed by the gang that remains standing.

Stepping outside, the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge beckons wildlife enthusiasts with rare sightseeing opportunities. The delightful sanctuary, comprising grasslands and marshlands, hosts over 160 migratory bird species and is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Weiser

This relaxed rural community on the confluence of the Snake River and Weiser Rivers was named after the landmark waterway that cuts through its territory. Weiser’s claim to fame is the National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest, a popular gathering featuring a classic music competition and festival. Founded in 1871, tourists can explore its diverse heritage by walking around its beautiful downtown. Several exhibits carefully highlight Weiser’s history and culture at the Snake River Heritage Centre. A sprawling wilderness around the town invites immersion in the great outdoors with demanding hiking and biking excursions along the 84-mile Weiser River Trail Head.

Those who can stand the grind may opt for a more easygoing golf session at Rolling Hills Golf Course. The 9-hole course features well-maintained greens with breathtaking views against the horizon and accommodates all skill levels.

Pierce

One of the oldest mining towns to visit in Idaho, Pierce’s captivating history goes back to the 1860s and includes mining and logging heritages. The town is home to the Pierce Courthouse, the state’s oldest public house. This rusty wooded structure was constructed in 1862 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, the Howard Broadbury Memorial Logging Museum introduces visitors to the town’s logging history. The museum harbors a colorful artifact collection offering a window into the history of the mining and logging industry.

Pierce invites newcomers to join the town in celebrating its rich history during the Pierce 1860 Days. This family-friendly extravaganza sees residents and tourists congregate at the town square to mark its vibrant past with songs, dance, and art. With this, the square makes for one of the best times to visit Pierce.

Bonners Ferry

Sitting less than 30 miles from the Canadian border, Bonners Ferry is considered the gateway to northern Idaho. This historic town is an aesthetically pleasing town with picturesque landscapes punctuated by rolling mountain peaks, dense forests, and the scenic Kootenai River. Those curious to explore local history can stop by the Boundary County Museum, which previews life in Bonners Ferry in the 1860s through archives and old photographs. The town’s artistic personality shines through Tears Scarlet Fine Art, a quaint art gallery displaying beautiful pieces by local and regional artists.

Bonners Ferry is an excellent escape for outdoor enthusiasts, promising numerous opportunities across its vast backcountry. Exploring the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge exposes you to vibrant biodiversity, rare animal and bird species, and lush flora.

Lewiston

Established in 1861 during the advent of the Idaho gold rush, Lewiston became the territory’s first capital. This town has a rich historical heritage that tourists can learn about at the Nez Perce County Historical Society, which hosts interactive exhibits exploring the town’s history and culture from its pre-settlement days. Lewistown is also a gateway to the vast Hells Gate State Park. This scenic outdoor escape delights with numerous recreational activities, from hiking and camping to picnicking and water sports.

Wine lovers can look forward to exciting tasting opportunities at the town’s various wineries and vineyards. Lindsay Creek Vineyards not only introduces you to some of the best wine varieties in the region, but also the beauty of Lewiston’s picturesque outdoors.

Sandpoint

This four-season destination on the scenic shores of Lake Pend Oreille wows visitors with its breathtaking natural attractions. This town is notably home to the Schweitzer Ski Resort, a regional hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Tourists love to visit Sandpoint City Beach Park, a quiet oasis offering access to lake beaches and fun aquatic activities. Available amenities include picnicking, swimming, playgrounds, ball fields, and walking paths. For a glimpse of local history, the Bonner County Historical Society & Museum welcomes guests to explore various exhibits exploring Sandpoint’s vibrant past since its founding in 1898.

Additionally, another historical landmark that serves as a regional arts hub is Panida Theater. This rustic venue has entertained audiences since the early 1900s by staging live performances and screening films.

Silver City

Earning a spot in the National Register of Historic Places, this deserted town of Owyhee County charms visitors with its gold and silver mining heritage. At its peak, Silver City was a vibrant community of around 2,500 but lost its appeal when mining activity declined. Today, you can explore its rich history by visiting several landmarks and sites. The Poorman Mine is an excellent start in Silver City, whose rugged remains remind visitors of a once-thriving mining town during its 1860s peak days.

A short drive to neighboring Murphy allows tourists access to the Owyhee County Historical Museum, where diverse artifacts and archives hint at Silver City’s past. Meanwhile, Silver City Mountain Range harbors picturesque trails that invite adventurers to discover the great outdoors.

Salmon

A dream come true for outdoorsy travelers, Salmon was founded in 1867 and offers exciting experiences across its indoor and outdoor attractions. As the seat of Lemhi County, this town houses the Lemhi County Historical Society, home to a fine selection of artifacts and memorabilia documenting regional history and culture. Meanwhile, the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational Center allows visitors to discover unique traditions in a beautiful location with hiking trails and intimate statues.

Salomon’s scenic outdoor scenery delivers fun experiences in the open spaces, thanks to its rich network of natural gems. Goldbug Hot Springs is a natural wonder surrounded by rugged landscapes and secluded hiking trails. Finally, local outfitters, including Helfrich River Outfitters, plan adrenaline-inducing rafting opportunities to delight adventurers.

In the highlighted small towns to visit in Idaho, history comes alive through enduring buildings, artifacts in local museums, and tales from long-time residents. A walk through the quiet, weathered streets silently tells stories of hardships and triumphs. Though modernized in many respects, these towns’ roots remain visible in archival photos, newspaper clippings, and carefully preserved structures. Travelers gain new perspectives on lives lived long before their own time. Most importantly, support for preserving these unique towns ensures new generations can experience Idaho’s formative beginnings through its special municipalities.

GOODING COUNTY, ID — Idaho State Police is investigating a two-vehicle fatality crash that occurred at approximately 7:59 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 4 on I-84 near milepost 142 in Gooding County.

A 71-year-old female from Nampa was traveling eastbound in a Chevrolet Silverado. She drove off the road, returned to the roadway and struck the trailer of a semi-truck, which was traveling eastbound, being driven by a 41-year-old male from Florida, according to police.

The female driver was transported by ground ambulance to a local hospital. Her passenger, a 65-year-old female from Boise, succumbed to injuries at the scene. All occupants were wearing seatbelts.

All eastbound lanes of travel were blocked for approximately six hours, but have since been reopened.

On the banks of the Snake River in far eastern Washington, sockeye salmon have had a rough summer. The water behind the last major concrete dam they have to swim past is way too hot.

“It’s running 74 degrees. That’s getting up to lethal temperatures for sockeye,” said David Venditti, a biologist with Idaho Fish and Game.

To keep the fish out of potentially deadly waters, this team is giving salmon some wheels. They’re hauling sockeye from Lower Granite Dam to the Eagle Creek Hatchery in central Idaho. The whole endeavor costs thousands of dollars.

At a holding pool, technicians scoop a fish at a time into a white tank on the back of a green pickup truck. Technician Tara Beckman stands in the truck bed. She dumps the salmon from the net into the tank.

“They are wily,” Beckman said, as the fish thrashed in the net.

These fish need that energy to make their journey inland. Snake River sockeye are born in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains. The young salmon swim out to the ocean, where they live for up to three years.

When they’re ready to spawn, they make what sounds like an impossible journey.

“These salmon, they travel like 900 miles. It’s insane,” said Elizabeth Holdren, a supervisory biologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The salmon also climb roughly 6,500 feet in elevation until they reach the stream where they were born, Holdren said. Then, they spawn and die.

Unchecked pollution is contaminating the salmon that Pacific Northwest tribes eat

This is the third summer biologists have trucked these endangered fish to cooler waters. The biologists first transported them in 2015, and then in 2021.

Scientists say it’s a peek into the future of a changing climate. Jay Hesse, with the Nez Perce Tribe, said less snowpack in the mountains means less water in Northwest rivers.

“Low stream flows result in elevated water temperatures because of reservoir habitats that tend to heat up faster and retain that heat,” Hesse said.

Climate change is one of the compounding problems for salmon, he said.

David Johnson manages the fisheries department for the Nez Perce Tribe. He said many tribal members rely on salmon for their primary food, nutrition and livelihoods.

“Salmon and these tribes are hand-in-glove. Quite honestly, they’ve supported each other for countless years,” Johnson said.

Now, Snake River sockeye are on the brink of extinction, said Joseph Bogaard, the executive director of the fish advocacy group Save Our Wild Salmon. These salmon are some of the most endangered fish in the Northwest, he said.

“They’re giving us a message. Our ecosystems, our climate, our waters aren’t healthy. And they’re also telling us we’ve gotta do things differently and quickly or things are going to continue to unravel,” Bogaard said.

Trapping and hauling salmon for hundreds of miles is just a stopgap measure, he said.

“It’s really important right now. It is not a long-term strategy,” Bogaard said.

A long-term strategy to save salmon, he said, would be to breach the four dams on the lower Snake River.

However, the dams provide energy, transportation and irrigation for many communities across the region.

Some who rely on the dams say they aren’t the main reason the salmon aren’t doing well. They point to changing temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, the need for new culverts or better habitats to help salmon make it upstream.

Michelle Hennings, the executive director of the Washington Association of Wheat Growers, said there isn’t a silver bullet to protect these endangered fish.

“The dams aren’t one issue,” she said. “There are multiple issues that happen within why salmon could be at lower levels.”

Back at the Snake River, biologists add a few more fish to fill up the truck’s tank, and hop in the cab to start their drive.

“We’re taking fish from as early in the run as we can,” IDFG biologist Venditti said.

To gather the sockeye, technicians gently guide fish into what’s called a salmon sock. The sock is a slender, blue bag and it’s about four feet long. It keeps the fish’s gills wet while a technician carries it to a tank on the back of a truck.

“You get an arm and a leg workout,” said Rebekah Windover, one of the technicians.

She plops the fish into the tank for its long ride to Idaho.

“They all look happy in there,” Beckman said, peering into the tank.

The US has spent more than $2B on a plan to save salmon. The fish are vanishing anyway

The truck is packed with 800 pounds of ice split between several coolers. Keeping the fish cool between the occasional traffic jam or road work project are the biggest challenges for the team.

“It’s nerve-wracking. These aren’t just fish. It makes a long day even longer,” Venditti said.

This month, Venditti says they transported six truckloads of salmon. Although they’ve stopped trucking sockeye for the season, he said, temperatures in Washington are expected to creep back into the 100s Fahrenheit.