Wallace Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure in Wallace, Northern Idaho with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and more in this rocky mountain town.


Introduction to Wallace

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Wallace is a charming town in Northern Idaho known for its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and endless opportunities for adventure. The town is steeped in silver mining history and has been lovingly preserved, with many historic buildings and sites to visit. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. Whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Wallace has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Wallace

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wallace District Mining Museum: Learn about the town’s mining history and see old mining equipment and artifacts at this fascinating museum.

  • Sierra Silver Mine Tour: Explore an underground mine and learn about the mining techniques used in the early days of the town’s history.

  • Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum: Discover the importance of the railroad to the town’s development at this museum, which is housed in a beautiful historic building.

  • Oasis Bordello Museum: This museum offers a unique perspective on the town’s history, focusing on its former red-light district and the brothels that operated there.

Natural Attractions of Wallace: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes: This 72-mile trail runs through the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offers stunning scenery, as well as opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.

  • Hiawatha Trail: A 15-mile bike trail that passes through a beautiful historic train tunnel and features breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

  • Silver Streak Zipline Tours: Soar high above the treetops and enjoy incredible views of the mountains on this thrilling zipline tour.

  • Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking and hiking in the summer at this popular recreation area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wallace

  • The Route of the Hiawatha: This 15-mile trail is a must-do for any avid biker. The trail features stunning scenery, and a historic train tunnel.

  • The Pulaski Trail: This popular trail winds its way through the beautiful forest and features stunning waterfalls and scenic views.

  • The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes: This 72-mile trail offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.

Best Things to Do in Wallace: Activities and Tours

  • Sierra Silver Mine Tour: Explore an underground mine and learn about the mining techniques used in the early days of the town’s history.

  • Silver Streak Zipline Tours: Soar high above the treetops and enjoy incredible views of the mountains on this thrilling zipline tour.

  • Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking and hiking in the summer at this popular recreation area.

  • Fishing in the Coeur d’Alene River: This incredible river is home to a wide variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brook trout, and smallmouth bass.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wallace

Day Activity Description
1 Sierra Silver Mine Tour Explore an underground mine and learn about the mining techniques used in the early days of the town’s history.
2 Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking and hiking in the summer at this popular recreation area.
3 Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes Hike or bike the 72-mile trail that runs through the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offers stunning scenery and wildlife watching opportunities.
4 Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum Discover the importance of the railroad to the town’s development at this museum, which is housed in a beautiful historic building.
5 Fishing in the Coeur d’Alene River Enjoy fishing in this incredible river, which is home to a wide variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brook trout, and smallmouth bass.
6 Hiawatha Trail Bike the 15-mile trail that passes through a beautiful historic train tunnel and features breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
7 Oasis Bordello Museum Visit this museum that offers a unique perspective on the town’s history, focusing on its former red-light district and the brothels that operated there.

Food and Drink Scene of Wallace

Must-Try Dishes

  • Huckleberry Pie: This delicious pie is made with fresh huckleberries, which are abundant in the region.

  • Bison Burger: Enjoy a local twist on a classic dish with a bison burger, made with locally sourced bison meat.

  • Wild Mushroom Risotto: Made with foraged mushrooms from the surrounding forests, this dish is a local specialty.

Local Beverages

  • Wallace Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, as well as tours and tastings.

  • Huckleberry Wine: Take a taste of the region home with you with a bottle of delicious Huckleberry Wine.

Where to Stay in Wallace: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wallace Inn

The Wallace Inn is a comfortable and cozy hotel that offers a variety of rooms, as well as a pool, hot tub, and sauna. The hotel is conveniently located near the town’s main attractions and is a favorite among visitors.

Stardust Motel

The Stardust Motel is a quaint and affordable option for visitors. The rooms are clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

Mullan House

For a unique and upscale experience, stay at the Mullan House. This historic bed and breakfast offers luxurious accommodations and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Wallace: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Huckleberry Products: Take home some delicious huckleberry jam, syrup or candies.

  • Silver Jewelry: Silver mining is an important part of the town’s history, and visitors can find beautiful silver jewelry at local shops.

  • Local Artwork: The town is home to many talented artists, and visitors can find a variety of beautiful and unique artwork to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Wallace

Wallace is a close-knit community that values its history and natural beauty. Visitors are always welcome and are encouraged to explore the town’s many attractions. The locals are friendly and welcoming and are always happy to share their stories and recommendations.

Best Time to Visit Wallace

The best time to visit Wallace is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The fall months are also a beautiful time to visit, with stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wallace

Do:

  • Explore the town’s rich history and visit its many museums and historical sites.

  • Take advantage of the town’s abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure, including hiking, biking, and fishing.

  • Try some local dishes and beverages, such as huckleberry pie, bison burgers, and huckleberry wine.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the local customs and culture of the town. Respect the locals and their traditions.

  • Litter or damage the natural environment. Help keep the town’s natural beauty preserved for generations to come.

  • Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Always be prepared and aware of potential risks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wallace

Wallace is a relatively safe town, with low crime rates. Visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as locking their vehicles and securing their valuables.

Health in Wallace

Visitors to Wallace should be aware of the high altitude and take precautions to prevent altitude sickness, such as staying hydrated and taking it easy for the first few days. The town also has a hospital and medical clinic for any necessary medical assistance.

Getting to Wallace: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wallace

The closest major airport to Wallace is Spokane International Airport, which is about a 90-minute drive away.

Bus Stations Near Wallace

The Greyhound bus station in Spokane is the closest bus station to Wallace, which is about a 90-minute drive away.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Wallace using Interstate 90, which runs through the town.

How to Get Around in Wallace

The town is small and easy to explore on foot, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also rent bicycles or drive personal vehicles to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Wallace: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Coeur d’Alene: A beautiful lake town with stunning scenery and outdoor activities, located about an hour’s drive from Wallace.

  • Missoula: A charming college town in Montana, known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor recreation opportunities, located about 2 hours’ drive from Wallace.

  • Yellowstone National Park: One of the most famous national parks in the world, Yellowstone is about a 6-hour drive from Wallace and offers incredible natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Conclusion

Wallace is a hidden gem in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery, you will find it in this charming town. Plan your next adventure in Wallace and discover all that this amazing destination has to offer.

A view of the center of the universe on Bank Street, looking east A view of the center of the universe on Bank Street, looking east The Oasis Bordello Museum on Pine street walks guests through Wallace's more scandalous past The Oasis Bordello Museum on Pine street walks guests through Wallace's more scandalous past The Northern Pacific Depot Museum hosts exhibits on railroad and local history The Northern Pacific Depot Museum hosts exhibits on railroad and local history Gem Mine is a long abandoned mine in the town of Gem Gem Mine is a long abandoned mine in the town of Gem