Wallace
Wallace, Idaho is a mountain town with a lot going for it. Rich in history, small-town charm, and breathtaking beauty, it's easy to see why Smithsonian Magazine recently named it a must-see destination. Driving through Wallace on Interstate 90 in Northern Idaho, it's easy to notice the historic character of this small town. This is due to the fact that every downtown facade in Wallace is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic charm, combined with the surrounding lush mountain valley, makes Wallace a postcard destination. Wallace is a town that is particularly proud of its history. The entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town, which features original structures from the height of the old mining era, provides a rare glimpse back in time.
Wallace is also a popular destination due to its easy access to adventure. The Idaho Panhandle National Forest surrounds the town on all sides, providing thousands of miles of trails and abandoned mining roads. The renowned Route of the Hiawatha begins 20 miles east of Wallace for bicyclists. The 73-mile Coeur d'Alene Trail also runs through town. The town's history begins in the late 1800s with the silver mining industry. Wallace, after a long saga of booms, busts, and "the Big Burn", is now one of the wealthiest mining towns in existence. Visitors can learn about this history by taking guided mine tours, visiting mining museums, or strolling through the historic downtown district.