Burke Ghost Town - Image 1
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Burke Ghost Town

4.6
·491k reviews·Burke, United States

Explore Burke, Idaho, a historic mining ghost town famed for its unique buildings constructed over railroad tracks in a narrow canyon.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Beautiful autumn colors

CrowdLow
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Burke Ghost Town - Image 1

Burke Ghost Town

Best Time

Fall mornings

Beautiful autumn colors

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Burke, Idaho, a historic mining ghost town famed for its unique buildings constructed over railroad tracks in a narrow canyon.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Step back in time in Burke, a ghost town with buildings built over train tracks and a wild mining history!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The terrain can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the historic streets. :athletic_shoe:

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Save maps before you go to navigate easily. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Buildings Over Railroad Tracks

Historic Buildings Over Railroad Tracks

Main Street, Burke

Witness unique architecture where buildings are constructed directly over active or historic railroad lines.

The Fainting Goat

The Fainting Goat

Wallace, Idaho (nearby)

A popular local spot for food and drinks, often mentioned as a great stop before or after visiting Burke.

Hecla Mine

Hecla Mine

Burke, Idaho

Explore the remnants of a once-thriving lead and silver mine, a testament to the town's industrial past.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Past in Burke

Burke, Idaho, a historic mining town, offers a unique glimpse into the past. Explore its fascinating architecture and learn about its rich, albeit sometimes turbulent, history. Plan for uneven terrain and be prepared for a journey back in time.

Navigating Burke's Unique Landscape

Burke's narrow canyon setting means buildings are often built over railroad tracks. This creates a distinctive visual. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring and be mindful of the historic, potentially unpaved, surfaces. Cell service can be spotty, so download maps beforehand.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Beautiful autumn colors
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The ghost town of Burke, Idaho It was established as a town in 1887, that was once a thriving silver, lead and zinc mining community. The towns unique architecture includes buildings built over railroad tracks and a hotel with the train running through its lobby. #spooky #ghost #town #ghosttown #burke #idaho #idahoadventures #adventuretime #adventureoftheday #modelt #oregon #centraloregon #adventu...
t_bums_adventures
42 likes • 499 views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The terrain can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the historic streets. :athletic_shoe:

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Save maps before you go to navigate easily. :iphone:

Visiting my favorite mining ghost town in America! Burke, Idaho #mining #miners #mininglife #wallace #idaho #idahome #history #historical #roots #classic #instacool #vanlife #burke#vantasy #richandkari #roadtrip #backintime
vantasytv
19 likes • 479 views
Spontaneous road trip to the ghost town Burke with my sis and nephews this week! If you have never read up on the Frisco Mill labor disputes I highly recommend checking it out. Quite a wild history this area holds. Complete with gun fight, explosions, and military intervention. . . . #upperleftusa #upperleft #slowlivingmovement #northidaho #explorearoundyou #daytripadventures #explorenorthidah...
upperlefttradingco
11 likes • 311 views

Research Local History

Understanding the town's mining past and labor disputes adds depth to your visit. :books:

Combine with Wallace

Many visitors stop in nearby Wallace for food and amenities before or after exploring Burke. :forkandknife:

Just started another painting of a ghost town. This time it's Granite, Montana! Here's how I saw the town of Burke, Idaho and where I am going with Granite. I have to admit, this one will be oozing with more ectoplasm and wistful nausea.
maevegriffithart
7 likes • 165 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The terrain can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the historic streets. :athletic_shoe:

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Save maps before you go to navigate easily. :iphone:

Research Local History

Understanding the town's mining past and labor disputes adds depth to your visit. :books:

Combine with Wallace

Many visitors stop in nearby Wallace for food and amenities before or after exploring Burke. :forkandknife:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by Burke's unique architecture, particularly the buildings constructed over railroad tracks, and its authentic ghost town atmosphere. The town's rich mining history and the scenic drive through the canyon are frequently praised. Some find the lack of amenities and the ruggedness of the site to be minor drawbacks.

What People Like

Unique architecture
Historic mining town feel
Scenic canyon drive

What People Dislike

Limited amenities
Uneven terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Burke Ghost Town is located in a narrow canyon off I-90 in North Idaho. Take exit 61 from I-90 and follow the signs for Burke. The drive itself is scenic, winding through pine tree-lined canyons. Be aware that the road can be narrow and winding. Instagram+1

Public transport options directly to Burke Ghost Town are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider it a destination for a scenic road trip. Instagram

The best way to explore Burke is by car, allowing you to drive through the main street and stop at various points of interest. Walking is also recommended for a closer look at the historic buildings. Instagram

Parking can be found along the main street, but it can be limited, especially during peak times. Be prepared to park and walk to explore the town. Instagram

Absolutely! Burke Ghost Town offers a unique historical experience and is a fantastic addition to any North Idaho road trip, especially when combined with a visit to nearby Wallace. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Burke Ghost Town is an open historical site, and there are no admission fees to explore the town itself. You can wander freely through its streets. Instagram

Burke Ghost Town is accessible year-round, during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours as it is an outdoor historical area. Instagram

While there aren't official guided tours within Burke itself, local historical societies or museums in nearby Wallace might offer insights or walking tours of the broader mining district. It's recommended to check with local visitor centers. Instagram

The Hecla Mine itself is largely inaccessible to the public for safety reasons. Exploring the exterior and the surrounding ghost town is free. Instagram

Yes, you can visit Burke Ghost Town in winter, but be prepared for potentially snowy and icy conditions. Road access may be more challenging. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunities include the buildings constructed over railroad tracks, the historic hotel, and the general atmosphere of a preserved mining town. The narrow canyon setting also provides unique perspectives. Instagram+1

Yes, it is generally safe to take photos in Burke. However, always be aware of your surroundings, especially near old structures or any active industrial areas. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the historic buildings. Fall colors also add a beautiful element to photographs. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and any local restrictions before flying a drone over Burke Ghost Town. Instagram

Most buildings in Burke are privately owned or derelict and not open for interior photography. Focus on the exterior architecture and the town's streetscape. Instagram

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

The main activity is exploring the historic town, observing its unique architecture, and imagining life during its mining boom. You can drive or walk through the main street and appreciate the preserved buildings. Instagram+1

Burke was established in 1887 as a thriving silver, lead, and zinc mining community. It's known for its unique architecture, including buildings built over railroad tracks, and a history marked by labor disputes and industrial activity. Instagram+1

While often referred to as a 'ghost town,' Burke's historical significance and abandoned structures lend themselves to a spooky atmosphere. Some visitors report a sense of the past lingering. Instagram+1

As Burke is situated in a canyon surrounded by nature, you might spot local wildlife such as deer or various bird species. The surrounding forests are home to typical mountain fauna. Instagram

Burke itself has very limited amenities. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any necessities in the nearby town of Wallace before heading to Burke. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Burke Ghost Town offers a unique educational experience for families. The unusual architecture, with buildings over train tracks, is fascinating for children and sparks imagination about the past. It's a great opportunity to discuss history, mining, and how people lived in different times. TikTok

While exploring, encourage kids to look for details and imagine the town bustling with activity. Keep in mind that the terrain can be uneven, so ensure children wear appropriate footwear. Nearby Wallace offers more amenities like restaurants and restrooms, making it a good base for families planning a day trip to Burke. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers & Van Lifers

Burke Ghost Town is a perfect stop for road trippers and van lifers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations. The scenic drive into the narrow canyon is an adventure in itself, and the town's distinct character provides excellent photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Park your vehicle and take a leisurely stroll to soak in the atmosphere. Many travelers combine a visit to Burke with a stop in Wallace for a meal or to resupply. The historical significance and visual appeal make it a memorable detour on any Pacific Northwest road trip. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Architecture of Burke

Burke, Idaho, stands out due to its remarkable architecture, a direct result of its location in a very narrow canyon. Many buildings, including the historic hotel, were constructed directly over railroad tracks that served the mines. This ingenious, albeit unusual, building style allowed for efficient transportation of goods and materials right into the heart of the town. The visual of structures seemingly suspended above railway lines is a defining characteristic that draws visitors and photographers alike. TikTokInstagram

This architectural approach wasn't just for show; it was a practical solution to the limited space. The town's development was dictated by the steep canyon walls, forcing developers to build upwards and over the available infrastructure. Exploring Burke means stepping into a living museum of industrial ingenuity and adaptation, where the landscape and human endeavor have shaped a truly one-of-a-kind settlement. Instagram

Visitors often marvel at the sheer audacity of building in such a confined space. The remnants of this era, with buildings still standing over the old tracks, offer a tangible connection to the town's past. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges and innovations of the mining era that defined Burke's existence. Instagram

Burke's Turbulent Mining History

Burke's history is deeply intertwined with the boom and bust cycles of the silver and lead mining industry. Established in 1887, it quickly grew into a bustling hub, attracting miners and workers seeking fortune. The Hecla Mine and other operations in the area were significant contributors to the region's economy for decades. Instagram+1

However, the town's past is also marked by significant labor disputes and conflicts. The Frisco Mill labor disputes, for instance, involved intense confrontations, including gunfights and explosions, necessitating military intervention. This turbulent period highlights the harsh realities and high stakes of the mining life and the struggles of the workers. Instagram Understanding this history adds a layer of depth to the exploration of Burke, transforming it from just a collection of old buildings into a place with a compelling narrative. Instagram

While the mining operations have long since ceased, the legacy of Burke's industrial past remains. The preserved structures and the stories of the people who worked and lived there offer a powerful glimpse into a pivotal era of American history. It’s a history that shaped not only Burke but the entire Coeur d'Alene mining district. Instagram

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