As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
There’s something undeniably magical about exploring some of Idaho’s little-known attractions. These are the types of places that are easily passed over at first glance, but pay off extraordinarily once you seek them out. Luckily for us, Idaho is full of hidden gems that are worth checking out. For instance, this abandoned mining camp has been left withering in the mountains for the past century. It may sound kind of eerie but you’ll find that it’s actually incredibly beautiful. Take some time to explore a historic and scenic region of Idaho that not many people know about. Keep scrolling to see what we’re talking about!
Are you the type of person that likes to explore the hidden gems that our state has to offer? If so, you'll be utterly mesmerized by this abandoned mining camp near the little town of Mackay, Idaho.
Known as the Mackay Mine Hill Tour, you'll find it by driving southwest down Main Street in the town of Mackay. After several blocks, you'll follow the signs that lead you to the mining camp.
The serene beauty of this place is bound to blow you away from the moment you arrive. Mackay Mine Hill was active from 1879 to 1949, but it has sat empty and abandoned ever since. However, the people of Mackay have put in a lot of work to preserve this place as best as possible and you'll find that the site contains all sorts of historical information about the camp.
In fact, without the Mackay townspeople it's possible that this camp would've been torn down years ago. Back in the late 90s there was talk about tearing town the historic structures and using the timber for decorating expensive homes in Sun Valley. When the locals heard about this they rallied to protect and preserve the historic structures that made their town what it is today.
During its lifetime, the mine primarily produced copper ore. Drills, pickaxes, and dynamite were used to dig over 20 miles of tunnels through the mountains. Overall, it's estimated that this camp was responsible for mining ore totalling $4 million dollars!
The tour through the camp is completely self-guided and was originally opened to visitors back in 2004. There are 20 historical stops along the tour and each one provides a unique insight about this little mining camp that is sure to astound history buffs.
Many of these sites have been incredibly well-preserved over the years and it's easy to imagine their function during the camp's heyday. During the tour you'll come across sites such as the smelter, machine shop, masonry, headhouse, and much more.
The camp's structures may be weathered and worn, but they represent an incredible piece of Idaho history. On top of that, Mackay Mine Hill symbolizes the love that Idahoans have for their roots. Explore a little-known slice of Old Idaho and plan an adventure at this abandoned mining camp!
Did you realize this abandoned mining camp existed? This is such a neat find in the mountains! Take a look at our list of 10 Best Kept Secrets And Hidden Gems In Idaho for more little-known destinations that are worth exploring.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
