Wallace

Wallace is a county seat in Silver Valley, Idaho, stretching along the South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River at an elevation of 2,730 feet (832 meters). The Bitterroot Mountains surround the compact town center, where the main street runs through a narrow valley.

Gold was discovered in 1882, drawing the first settlers before Colonel William R. Wallace founded the town at Placer Center in 1884. Silver mining grew in the early 20th century and shaped the development of the entire region.

The town takes its name from the founder and looks today like a well-preserved mining center with brick facades from the late 19th century. Many buildings now serve as small shops or restaurants, while locals regularly use the historic streets for community events.

The local visitor center offers free maps for hiking and biking trails laid out on former railway lines. Two ski areas are located in the nearby area, both about 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the downtown.

Local mines once produced one-fifth of the world's silver, earning the town the informal title of Silver Capital of the World. Four museums focus on different aspects of mining and are spread across several historic buildings.

Location: Shoshone County

Inception: 1884

Elevation above the sea: 832 m

Website: https://wallace.id.gov

GPS coordinates: 47.47310,-115.92500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:21