Idaho is a state full of history and in every corner, you can visit many destinations that bring the past to life. Visit one of the many areas explored by Lewis and Clark, see original wagon ruts from pioneers traveling along the Oregon Trail, and even learn a little more about Ernest Hemingway and his life — there are countless options. While several historical sites can draw in quite a crowd, there’s one located in a rural small town that’s quite the roadside attraction. It’s the sail of the USS Hawkbill, also known as The Devil Boat, and it’s worth stopping to learn a little more.

Arco, Idaho is a small town with a population just shy of 1,000 residents. It is located in Butte County and is approximately 70 miles from Idaho Falls.
Google Maps
You may feel like you are in the middle of nowhere when you venture to Arco. There isn’t much in the area and the town is quite small with few businesses to visit.
Justin Haskins/Google
However, there is one historical site that we suggest taking a few minutes to explore — the USS Hawkbill or The Devil Boat.
The USS Hawkbill was a Sturgeon-class attack submarine that was first launched in 1971.
U.S. Navy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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This submarine was known as The Devil Boat due to the number 666 on her hull.
By Service Depicted: Navy - ID:DNST9105704, Public Domain/Wikipedia
The Hawkbill completed many missions for the U.S. Navy. It joined Submarine Squadron ONE in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and traveled around the world. It even took an 87-day adventure under the polar ice cap in the Arctic.
Service Depicted: Navy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
This submarine was the last of its kind to be decommissioned in 2000. It’s sail was then placed in Arco, right along the main road as you come into town via US 20.
B600b600/Wikipedia
The sail is free to visit and doesn’t take much time to sit and admire. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, have a picnic, and learn something new. It’s a piece of history in the middle of nowhere — you don’t want to miss it.
Danapit, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Have you ever visited the USS Hawkbill in Arco, Idaho? What did you think of this roadside historical site? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

If you do venture out to Arco, we recommend checking out our road trip essentials list and favorite car-friendly snacks as you’ll travel quite a distance before reaching any services.

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Idaho Science Center, 335 S Front St, Arco, ID 83213, USA