
Burke Ghost Town
Explore Burke, Idaho, a historic mining ghost town famed for its unique buildings constructed over railroad tracks in a narrow canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful autumn colors

Burke Ghost Town
Best Time
Beautiful autumn colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Burke, Idaho, a historic mining ghost town famed for its unique buildings constructed over railroad tracks in a narrow canyon.
"Step back in time in Burke, a ghost town with buildings built over train tracks and a wild mining history!"

Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the historic streets. :athletic_shoe:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Save maps before you go to navigate easily. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Buildings Over Railroad Tracks
Main Street, Burke
Witness unique architecture where buildings are constructed directly over active or historic railroad lines.

The Fainting Goat
Wallace, Idaho (nearby)
A popular local spot for food and drinks, often mentioned as a great stop before or after visiting Burke.

Hecla Mine
Burke, Idaho
Explore the remnants of a once-thriving lead and silver mine, a testament to the town's industrial past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Past in Burke
Navigating Burke's Unique Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the historic streets. :athletic_shoe:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Save maps before you go to navigate easily. :iphone:
Research Local History
Understanding the town's mining past and labor disputes adds depth to your visit. :books:
Combine with Wallace
Many visitors stop in nearby Wallace for food and amenities before or after exploring Burke. :forkandknife:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the historic streets. :athletic_shoe:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Save maps before you go to navigate easily. :iphone:
Research Local History
Understanding the town's mining past and labor disputes adds depth to your visit. :books:
Combine with Wallace
Many visitors stop in nearby Wallace for food and amenities before or after exploring Burke. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Burke's unique architecture, particularly the buildings constructed over railroad tracks, and its authentic ghost town atmosphere. The town's rich mining history and the scenic drive through the canyon are frequently praised. Some find the lack of amenities and the ruggedness of the site to be minor drawbacks.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burke Ghost Town is located in a narrow canyon off I-90 in North Idaho. Take exit 61 from I-90 and follow the signs for Burke. The drive itself is scenic, winding through pine tree-lined canyons. Be aware that the road can be narrow and winding.
Public transport options directly to Burke Ghost Town are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider it a destination for a scenic road trip.
The best way to explore Burke is by car, allowing you to drive through the main street and stop at various points of interest. Walking is also recommended for a closer look at the historic buildings.
Parking can be found along the main street, but it can be limited, especially during peak times. Be prepared to park and walk to explore the town.
Absolutely! Burke Ghost Town offers a unique historical experience and is a fantastic addition to any North Idaho road trip, especially when combined with a visit to nearby Wallace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Burke Ghost Town is an open historical site, and there are no admission fees to explore the town itself. You can wander freely through its streets.
Burke Ghost Town is accessible year-round, during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours as it is an outdoor historical area.
While there aren't official guided tours within Burke itself, local historical societies or museums in nearby Wallace might offer insights or walking tours of the broader mining district. It's recommended to check with local visitor centers.
The Hecla Mine itself is largely inaccessible to the public for safety reasons. Exploring the exterior and the surrounding ghost town is free.
Yes, you can visit Burke Ghost Town in winter, but be prepared for potentially snowy and icy conditions. Road access may be more challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities include the buildings constructed over railroad tracks, the historic hotel, and the general atmosphere of a preserved mining town. The narrow canyon setting also provides unique perspectives.
Yes, it is generally safe to take photos in Burke. However, always be aware of your surroundings, especially near old structures or any active industrial areas.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the historic buildings. Fall colors also add a beautiful element to photographs.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and any local restrictions before flying a drone over Burke Ghost Town.
Most buildings in Burke are privately owned or derelict and not open for interior photography. Focus on the exterior architecture and the town's streetscape.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The main activity is exploring the historic town, observing its unique architecture, and imagining life during its mining boom. You can drive or walk through the main street and appreciate the preserved buildings.
Burke was established in 1887 as a thriving silver, lead, and zinc mining community. It's known for its unique architecture, including buildings built over railroad tracks, and a history marked by labor disputes and industrial activity.
While often referred to as a 'ghost town,' Burke's historical significance and abandoned structures lend themselves to a spooky atmosphere. Some visitors report a sense of the past lingering.
As Burke is situated in a canyon surrounded by nature, you might spot local wildlife such as deer or various bird species. The surrounding forests are home to typical mountain fauna.
Burke itself has very limited amenities. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any necessities in the nearby town of Wallace before heading to Burke.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exploring, encourage kids to look for details and imagine the town bustling with activity. Keep in mind that the terrain can be uneven, so ensure children wear appropriate footwear. Nearby Wallace offers more amenities like restaurants and restrooms, making it a good base for families planning a day trip to Burke.
🚗 Road Trippers & Van Lifers
Park your vehicle and take a leisurely stroll to soak in the atmosphere. Many travelers combine a visit to Burke with a stop in Wallace for a meal or to resupply. The historical significance and visual appeal make it a memorable detour on any Pacific Northwest road trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of Burke
This architectural approach wasn't just for show; it was a practical solution to the limited space. The town's development was dictated by the steep canyon walls, forcing developers to build upwards and over the available infrastructure. Exploring Burke means stepping into a living museum of industrial ingenuity and adaptation, where the landscape and human endeavor have shaped a truly one-of-a-kind settlement.
Visitors often marvel at the sheer audacity of building in such a confined space. The remnants of this era, with buildings still standing over the old tracks, offer a tangible connection to the town's past. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges and innovations of the mining era that defined Burke's existence.
Burke's Turbulent Mining History
However, the town's past is also marked by significant labor disputes and conflicts. The Frisco Mill labor disputes, for instance, involved intense confrontations, including gunfights and explosions, necessitating military intervention. This turbulent period highlights the harsh realities and high stakes of the mining life and the struggles of the workers. Understanding this history adds a layer of depth to the exploration of Burke, transforming it from just a collection of old buildings into a place with a compelling narrative.
While the mining operations have long since ceased, the legacy of Burke's industrial past remains. The preserved structures and the stories of the people who worked and lived there offer a powerful glimpse into a pivotal era of American history. It’s a history that shaped not only Burke but the entire Coeur d'Alene mining district.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit