Edward Pulaski Tunnel and Placer Creek Escape Route

The Edward Pulaski Tunnel is a historic mining passage carved into the mountainside in Shoshone County, running deep into solid rock. The entrance is narrow and the interior is enclosed by thick stone walls that form a natural shelter.

The tunnel was originally excavated as a mining operation and gained tragic significance in 1910 when Forest Service ranger Edward Pulaski led firefighters to shelter within it. This event during a devastating forest fire made the site a testament to a critical moment in firefighting history.

The site represents early American firefighting techniques and demonstrates the evolution of forest fire management strategies in the western United States.

The site can be reached by following a hiking path that starts at a marked trailhead and crosses several bridges along the way. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the route passes through mountainous terrain.

The mine was originally used by private prospectors and later became an unexpected refuge during an emergency firefighting operation. This dual story makes it a place where industrial history and a dramatic rescue intersect.

Location: Shoshone County

GPS coordinates: 47.44506,-115.85744

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02