
Sierra Silver Mine Tour
Step into Idaho's mining past with an underground tour and a historic trolley ride through charming Wallace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Sierra Silver Mine Tour
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Idaho's mining past with an underground tour and a historic trolley ride through charming Wallace.
"Our miner and tour guide... was awesome!! He was informative and very funny! "

🧥 Bring a Jacket!
Mines are consistently cold, around 45°F (7°C). A light jacket is essential for comfort.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Closed-toe, comfortable shoes are a must for navigating uneven mine terrain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underground Mine Tour
Inside the Sierra Silver Mine
Descend into a historic silver mine and learn about its rich past and mining techniques.

Wallace History Trolley Tour
Wallace, Idaho
Ride through the charming historic town of Wallace, learning its unique stories and seeing its sights.

Meet Your Miner Guide
Sierra Silver Mine
Engage with passionate guides who share personal stories and deep knowledge of mining life.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
Mines are consistently cold, around 45°F (7°C). A light jacket is essential for comfort.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Closed-toe, comfortable shoes are a must for navigating uneven mine terrain.
🤫 Quiet on the Trolley
Be mindful of others during the trolley tour; guides narrate the town's history.
👂 Earplugs Optional
Machinery demonstrations are brief but loud; earplugs can be helpful if you're sensitive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
Mines are consistently cold, around 45°F (7°C). A light jacket is essential for comfort.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Closed-toe, comfortable shoes are a must for navigating uneven mine terrain.
🤫 Quiet on the Trolley
Be mindful of others during the trolley tour; guides narrate the town's history.
👂 Earplugs Optional
Machinery demonstrations are brief but loud; earplugs can be helpful if you're sensitive.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Guides are happy to take your photos, so don't hesitate to ask!
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Reservations are recommended to guarantee your spot on this popular tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sierra Silver Mine Tour for its engaging and knowledgeable guides, particularly Marty and Lee, who blend humor with historical facts. The combination of the underground mine exploration and the historic Wallace trolley tour is highly recommended for its educational and entertaining value. While the mine's cold temperature and the trolley's narration require some preparation, the overall experience leaves guests with a newfound respect for mining history.
"Our miner and tour guide in the mine named Marty was awesome!! He was informative and very funny! You can really tell he loves what he has done his whole life and wants to share his knowledge so people can understand how important mining has been and continues to be. It's extremely hard work and I have a new respect for the profession. The trolley ride and history tour of the area was equally fun and informative. Overall great experience and highly recommend. The kids really enjoyed it too! You are even given a little souvenir when you leave."
Jen H
"Very interesting and educational! If you have sensitive ears bring earplugs, they demonstrate some of the machinery. It is pretty cold in the mines so bring a light jacket!
The trolley ride up to the mines is fun but please be courteous to the other passengers and talk quietly amongst yourselves as the guide is narrating about the history of the town as you ride through."
Porsche Beranek
"The Sierra Silver Mine Tour was amazing!! We got to drive around the beautiful town of Wallace on a trolley and learn more about its history and see it's beautiful sights. The tour of the mine was incredible!! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and we learned a lot about mining and its equipment. It was really cool! I highly recommend it!!!"
Merry Haymond
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sierra Silver Mine Tour is located in Wallace, Idaho. Many visitors arrive by car, as it's a scenic drive through the Silver Valley. The town is accessible via I-90. Parking is generally available near the tour departure point.
Public transportation options directly to Wallace can be limited. It's often best to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby city like Coeur d'Alene.
Wallace is a walkable historic town. Many visitors enjoy strolling through the streets, visiting shops, and admiring the architecture. The trolley tour itself offers a great overview.
Yes, Wallace offers several lodging options, including historic hotels like the Stardust Hotel, which is often mentioned alongside the mine tour.
Generally, pets are not allowed inside the mine or on the trolley tours for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to confirm directly with the tour operator.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the official Sierra Silver Mine Tour website for the most current pricing information. Booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure your spot. This helps avoid disappointment.
Operating hours can change seasonally. It's best to consult the official Sierra Silver Mine Tour website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Information on discounts for children, seniors, or groups is typically available on the tour's official website. It's worth checking for any available offers.
Cancellation policies can vary. It's important to review the terms and conditions when booking your tickets or contact the tour operator directly for specific details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket or sweater, as the mine is consistently cold (around 45°F/7°C).
The tour typically includes both the underground mine exploration and the historic trolley ride through Wallace, usually lasting a couple of hours in total.
Accessing the mine involves several steep steps up a hill, and the underground tour requires navigating uneven terrain. Visitors with significant mobility challenges should consider this.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the mine. The guides are often happy to help take group photos.
You'll see various mining equipment and learn about the processes used to extract silver. Demonstrations of some machinery may occur, which can be loud.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Sierra Silver Mine Tour primarily focuses on the mine and trolley experience. There is a gift shop selling regional specialties and rocks, but full dining facilities are usually not on-site.
Wallace has several local restaurants and cafes offering a range of cuisines. You can find diners, pubs, and other eateries within walking distance of the tour departure point.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to consume personal snacks and drinks before or after the tour, especially during the mine exploration, to keep the environment clean.
Expect classic American diner fare, hearty pub food, and local specialties. Wallace offers a taste of traditional mountain town cuisine.
Many restaurants in Wallace will offer some vegetarian options. Vegan choices might be more limited, but it's always worth asking about modifications.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic mining equipment underground, the unique architecture of Wallace during the trolley tour, and scenic views of the Silver Valley.
The mine can be dimly lit, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful. However, guides are often accommodating and can assist with group photos.
Focus on the historic buildings, the unique streetscape of Wallace, and any notable landmarks pointed out by your guide.
Generally, flash photography is permitted in tourist mines, but it's always a good idea to check with your guide. Excessive flash can sometimes detract from the atmosphere.
The trolley tour will take you through the heart of town, offering many vantage points. Keep an eye out for the historic courthouse and the distinctive buildings lining the streets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Dress everyone in layers, as mines are cold. Ensure kids wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The guides are known for being engaging and humorous, which helps keep younger visitors entertained and informed. The souvenir provided at the end is also a nice touch for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Consider visiting during the off-season or on weekdays for potentially fewer crowds. Pack your own snacks and water to save on incidental costs. Wallace itself is a charming town to explore on foot, offering free sightseeing opportunities beyond the paid tours.
💑 Couples
Recommendations for couples: Consider booking a tour during a time that allows for a relaxed pace, perhaps a weekday afternoon. Afterward, explore Wallace's local shops and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of its charming restaurants for a complete date experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Silver Mining in Wallace
This mining heritage is not just about extraction; it's about the lives of the miners, the boom-and-bust cycles, and the development of the community. The trolley tour through Wallace provides a glimpse into this past, showcasing the architecture and stories that emerged from the wealth generated by the mines. It's a living history lesson that connects visitors to the very soul of the town.
Today, while large-scale mining operations have changed, the legacy endures. The Sierra Silver Mine Tour plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing this history, offering a tangible connection to the hard work and ingenuity that defined this part of Idaho.
Navigating the Mine: What to Expect
Expect to see various pieces of mining equipment and learn about the techniques used to extract silver. While the tour is educational and fascinating, be prepared for the conditions. The mine is consistently cold, so a jacket is essential, and comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain. There are also steep steps to access the mine entrance, which is an important consideration for those with mobility concerns.
Some demonstrations of mining machinery may occur, which can be loud for a few seconds. If you have sensitive ears, earplugs are an option, though many visitors find they are fine by simply covering their ears. The overall experience is designed to be immersive and informative, providing a profound respect for the challenging profession of mining.
The Wallace Trolley Tour Experience
As you meander through the streets, your guide will share fascinating historical anecdotes, point out significant landmarks, and highlight the distinctive architecture that reflects Wallace's past. It's a relaxed way to absorb the local culture and understand how the mining boom shaped the town into what it is today.
This part of the tour is not only educational but also a pleasant way to see the sights without extensive walking. It's a perfect prelude or conclusion to the mine tour, offering a broader perspective on the region's heritage. Remember to be courteous to other passengers and listen attentively to the guide's narration.





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