Custer Ghost Town Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Custer Ghost Town with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best things to do, places to eat, and where to stay in Custer Ghost Town.


Introduction to Custer Ghost Town

Located in the heart of Central Idaho, in the rugged Rocky Mountains of the United States, Custer Ghost Town is a fascinating historic site that offers a glimpse into the Wild West. Founded in 1876 during the Gold Rush era, this once-thriving mining town is now preserved as a ghost town, attracting tourists from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Custer Ghost Town

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Custer Ghost Town is a treasure trove of history and culture, with several museums and historical sites that are a must-visit for history buffs:

  • The Custer Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Gold Rush era, including mining equipment, photographs, and historic documents.

  • Bonanza City: Once a bustling mining community, Bonanza City is now a well-preserved ghost town with several restored buildings that provide an insight into life during the Gold Rush era.

  • The Yankee Fork Gold Dredge: This massive machine was used to extract gold from the Yankee Fork River during the early 20th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.

Natural Attractions of Custer Ghost Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

With its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and winding rivers, Custer Ghost Town is a nature lover’s paradise. Some of the top natural attractions in the area include:

  • The Salmon River: Known as the River of No Return, the Salmon River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, fishing, and kayaking.

  • The Sawtooth Mountains: This majestic mountain range offers breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and backpacking.

  • Redfish Lake: Located just a short drive from Custer Ghost Town, Redfish Lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and sunbathing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town is surrounded by some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in the Rocky Mountains. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • The Custer Ghost Town Loop Trail: This easy 2-mile trail starts and ends at the Custer Museum and loops around the ghost town, passing by historic buildings and mining sites.

  • The Bonanza City Trail: This 3-mile trail takes you through the well-preserved streets of Bonanza City and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • The Sawtooth Ridge Trail: This challenging 8-mile trail takes you to the top of the Sawtooth Mountains and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Custer Ghost Town: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure or a leisurely stroll through history, Custer Ghost Town has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Custer Ghost Town:

  • Take a guided tour of the Custer Museum and learn about the town’s rich history.

  • Rent a raft or kayak and explore the Salmon River.

  • Go on a horseback riding tour through the Sawtooth Mountains.

  • Take a scenic drive along the Custer Motorway and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Week-Long Itinerary for Custer Ghost Town

Day 1: Arrive in Custer Ghost Town and explore the historic buildings and mining sites.

Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Custer Museum and learn about the town’s rich history.

Day 3: Go on a horseback riding tour through the Sawtooth Mountains.

Day 4: Rent a raft or kayak and explore the Salmon River.

Day 5: Take a scenic drive along the Custer Motorway and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 6: Relax at Redfish Lake and enjoy swimming and sunbathing.

Day 7: Depart from Custer Ghost Town and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Custer Ghost Town

Must-Try Dishes

Custer Ghost Town is known for its hearty western cuisine, with plenty of options for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Huckleberry pancakes: Made with fresh huckleberries, these pancakes are a local specialty.

  • Elk burger: A juicy burger made with lean elk meat, topped with cheese and served on a homemade bun.

  • Idaho trout: Fresh-caught trout, grilled to perfection and served with a side of vegetables and potatoes.

Local Beverages

Idaho is known for its microbreweries and wineries, and Custer Ghost Town is no exception. Here are some local beverages to try:

  • Sawtooth Brewery: Located in nearby Ketchum, Sawtooth Brewery offers a variety of locally brewed beers, including the popular “Sun Valley Blonde.”

  • Sawtooth Winery: This award-winning winery produces some of the best wines in Idaho, including the popular “Skyline Red” and “Tempranillo.”

Where to Stay in Custer Ghost Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Custer Ghost Town offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from rustic cabins to luxurious lodges. Here are some top picks:

  • The Custer Cabins: These cozy cabins are located in the heart of Custer Ghost Town and offer easy access to all the top attractions.

  • The Redfish Lodge: Located just a short drive from Custer Ghost Town, the Redfish Lodge offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of Redfish Lake.

  • The Sawtooth Chalet: This charming chalet is located in the foothills of the Sawtooth Mountains and offers easy access to hiking and biking trails.

What to Buy in Custer Ghost Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Custer Ghost Town is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some top picks:

  • Huckleberry jam: Made with fresh huckleberries, this jam is a delicious way to bring home a taste of Idaho.

  • Handcrafted jewelry: Several local artisans sell handmade jewelry featuring local gemstones and natural materials.

  • Antique mining equipment: Several shops in Custer Ghost Town sell antique mining equipment, including pickaxes and miners’ helmets.

Local Culture and Customs of Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town has a rich cultural history, with a mix of Native American, mining, and cowboy traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including:

  • Dress appropriately for the weather and hiking conditions.

  • Avoid littering or damaging local plants and wildlife.

  • Be respectful of local wildlife, including bears and moose.

Best Time to Visit Custer Ghost Town

The best time to visit Custer Ghost Town is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. From June to September, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and fishing, as well as cultural events like the annual Custer Days celebration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Custer Ghost Town

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be prepared for outdoor activities with appropriate clothing and gear.
  • Follow local rules and regulations, including those for wildlife and camping.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage local plants and wildlife.
  • Approach or feed local wildlife, including bears and moose.
  • Ignore weather forecasts or warnings about dangerous conditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town is a relatively safe place to visit, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to stay safe:

  • Be aware of weather conditions and prepare for extreme weather events, such as thunderstorms or flash floods.

  • Follow best practices for wildlife safety, including carrying bear spray and avoiding confrontations with bears or other animals.

Health in Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town is located in a remote area, so visitors should be prepared for limited medical facilities. Some health and safety tips include:

  • Bring a first-aid kit and any necessary medications.

  • Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion during outdoor activities.

  • Be aware of the signs of altitude sickness and take precautions if necessary.

Getting to Custer Ghost Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

Custer Ghost Town is located in a remote part of Idaho, but there are several transportation options for visitors:

Airports Near Custer Ghost Town

The nearest major airports to Custer Ghost Town are:

  • Friedman Memorial Airport in Hailey, ID (about 70 miles away)
  • Boise Airport in Boise, ID (about 130 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Custer Ghost Town

There are no major bus stations near Custer Ghost Town, but visitors can take a Greyhound bus to nearby towns like Challis or Salmon.

Other Options

Visitors to Custer Ghost Town can also rent a car or take a private shuttle service from nearby airports.

How to Get Around in Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town is a small, walkable town, so most visitors get around on foot. However, visitors who want to explore the surrounding area can rent a car or take a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Custer Ghost Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Custer Ghost Town is surrounded by several other popular destinations in Idaho, including:

  • Sun Valley: Just a short drive from Custer Ghost Town, Sun Valley is a world-renowned ski resort town with plenty of outdoor activities year-round.

  • Boise: The capital city of Idaho is about a 3-hour drive from Custer Ghost Town and offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

  • Stanley: This charming mountain town is located about an hour’s drive from Custer Ghost Town and is known for its hot springs and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Custer Ghost Town is a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West, with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Custer Ghost Town has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this unique destination.

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