When you think of movies that were filmed in Idaho, “Napoleon Dynamite” is often the first to come to mind. This movie, shot in the town of Preston, gives viewers a look at an awkward teen who lives in small-town Idaho. But, what many Idahoans don’t realize is that there is another movie shot in a small town in Idaho — but this time in the northern part of the state. So, where was Dante’s Peak filmed? This movie from 1997 was shot in the small town of Wallace, Idaho.

Wallace is located in the Bitterroot Mountains and was originally a mining community. This town has many claims to fame as it is one of the few destinations where the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and it also claims to be the Center of the Universe.
Amanda/Flickr
As part of the Wallace, Idaho history, it was also a filming location for Dante’s Peak.
Dante’s Peak stars Pierce Brosnan and Linda Hamilton. It tells the story of a volcanologist who visits a small town and discovers that a dormant volcano in the area may erupt at any moment.
Kelly Michals/Flickr
In the movie, scenes of this fictional town were actually captured in the beautiful Wallace, Idaho. While the entire movie was not filmed in the town and some scenery was added digitally, you may still catch glimpses of this Idaho town that we all love.
For example, you’ll notice shots down the town’s main streets — looks pretty familiar right?
Kelly Michals/Flickr
In the image above, you’ll see a scene from the movie, and in the image below, you will see Wallace, Idaho in 2007.

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What about this shot outside of the Wallace District Mining Museum?
Kelly Michals/Flickr
While some scenes in the movie show actors and actresses running for their lives … we know better. Wallace is actually a calm, beautiful place to live and visit.
Kelly Michals/Flickr
Wallace, ID is considered one of the best small towns to visit in America. This town has so much to offer from historic buildings to mining tours – you’ll never be bored during your visit.
DAN/Flickr

Did you know where was Dante’s Peak filmed? Did you know it was in the small town of Wallace, Idaho? Do you know of other movies that were filmed in Idaho? Let us know in the comments! And, if you want to learn even more about Wallace being considered the Center of the Universe, check out our feature article.

Want to explore the town of Wallace, Idaho? If you’re looking for accommodations, take a look at this Historic Stagecoach House, an Airbnb Guest Favorite!

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Wallace, ID 83873, USA