Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burley, ID to Coeur d'Alene, ID

Are you looking for an adventure through the scenic beauty of Idaho and Montana? Then, you must drive through Burley, ID, to Coeur d'Alene, ID. This road trip covers around 545 miles and takes approximately 10 hours. With spellbinding landscapes and incredible sights, this journey is worth every minute. However, if you want to make your trip more exciting, check out these five unexpected places to stop and relax:

Halfway Point: Wise River, MT

Before we start our list, it is worth mentioning the midway point - Wise River, MT. It’s a small township located in the Big Hole Valley, surrounded by rugged mountains and magnificent forests with crystal clear streams and rivers. Wise River offers breathtaking scenery and ample outdoor adventure opportunities. Visitors can hike deep into the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest or go fishing in the renowned Big Hole River.

1. Arco, ID - The First City in the World Lit by Nuclear Power

Arco city in Butte County is a perfect stopover for history buffs. It was the first city in the world to be lit by nuclear power in 1955 and celebrates this achievement with the EBR-I Museum. The museum showcases the Experimental Breeder Reactor-1, where the first-ever nuclear-generated power was produced. Don't forget to visit the Lost Rivers Museum, which features the geology and history of the Lost River Valley. When in Arco, grab a bite of the local specialty: finger steaks, which are small, breaded strips of steak served with fries.

2. Dubois, ID - Home to the Beautiful Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Dubois is an oasis in Clark County. The town is home to Caribou-Targhee National Forest, with beautiful scenery, including majestic peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. You can hike the Table Mountain Trailhead, take a tour on ATVs, or go hunting and fishing. If you are looking for a quick, tasty bite, try the burgers at Diner 1918.

3. Anaconda, MT - A Classic Mining Town with Unique Attractions

Anaconda, the county seat of Deer Lodge County, is an authentic mining town that stands at the base of the Anaconda Range. The town has a rich mining heritage, and visitors can gain insight into the history of mining at the Anaconda Smelter Stack State Park. The towering monument stands over 585-feet tall, which was once the world's tallest freestanding masonry structure. If you fancy pizza cooked in a brick oven, head over to Gino's Pizza.

4. St. Regis, MT - Relax and Unwind at the River's Edge

St. Regis, a tiny town located in Mineral County, Montana, is an ideal place to relax after a long journey. Stop by the Bearmouth fishing access and enjoy some trout fishing in Clark Fork River. If you're feeling adventurous, take a swim in the refreshing water. You can also visit La Rosa's, which is a restaurant that serves American and Mexican cuisines.

5. Wallace, ID - A Quirky Town with Fascinating Local History

Wallace, a small town located in the Silver Valley of Shoshone County, is a hidden gem with a quirky population and fascinating history. The town has many attractions worth visiting, such as the Sierra Silver Mine Tour, Northern Pacific Railroad Depot Museum, and Wallace Brewing Company. Try the excellent steaks and burgers at 1313 Club.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a memorable road trip through Idaho and Montana, drive from Burley, ID, to Coeur d'Alene, ID. Along the way, you can take a break at Wise River, MT, and visit the five unexpected places we’ve recommended. You can indulge in local cuisine, learn about history and culture, and explore the scenic wilderness. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!