One Valley at a Time: Silver Valley
Valley Spotlight: Silver Valley
Welcome to the second week of our weekly valley series! Every week, we’re taking a closer look at one of Idaho’s legendary river valleys and structural basins—exploring their unique geography, local history, and the best ways to experience them.
Silver Valley (Northern Idaho)
Elevation & Landscape: Located in the Bitterroot Mountains in the Idaho Panhandle, Silver Valley spans approximately 24 miles long and about 9 miles wide. Sitting at roughly 2,300 feet in elevation at the floor of the canyon, the mountain-sides rise to over 6,000 feet. Kellogg Peak reaches to around 6,300.
Characterized by scenic, dense forests and steep slopes in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, it also hosts the Coeur d'Alene River system in the valley.
Local History: Silver Valley Idaho got its name from the rich deposits that spawned an industry. It’s roughly assessed that between the years of 1886 and 1997, the Silver Valley mines processed approximately 130 million metric tons of metal-bearing materials (which then generated approximately 109 million metric tons of tailings/byproducts).
The lack of flat ground in the region contributed to the issue of dealing with these mining byproducts, so instead of tossing them into the nearest waterway, the products were put to more useful means; building and maintaining roadways and railroads. The early 1900s saw the City of Wallace gathering and using a stockpile from the Standard-Mammoth Millsite to dump and spread these tailing throughout the town. Later in the nineties, tailings were also used to help build the roadbed for Interstate 90. However, what once seemed a practical use, quickly became a health hazard as these tailings exposed the community to high concentrations of lead, arsenic, and other contaminants. In the early 1980s a cleanup effort was underway to remedy this exposure.
(unless otherwise noted-Photo Credit: Photo Credit: silvervalleychamber.com)
Things to do: Silver valley boasts a variety of recreations: camping, biking, hiking, fishing, to name a few. The Silver Valley area is home to Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and Route of Hiawatha bike trails, and the longest gondola in North America.
The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes - A 73-mile long, paved trail that spans the Idaho Panhandle. It was developed through a partnership with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the U. S. Government, and the State of Idaho as part of a cleanup effort. This trail has a "gentle grade and smooth surface" and features 20 trailheads, picnic tables and benches, and lots of scenery.
Hiking - In addition to The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, Silver Valley has many trailheads and hiking opportunities.
Campgrounds - Silver Valley has many options to camp - from remote campsites to cabins with showers/kitchens; some options are available year-round.
Fishing - With options of River Fishing and Lake Fishing available, Silver Valley hosts a world-class fishing experience.
Golf - Silver Valley is home to three golf courses (offering an opportunity to golf at any skill level).
Water Activities - Silver Valley has several waterways that can accommodate swimming, kayaking, boating, paddleboarding, and floating.
Winter Fun - Skiing and snowboarding are available at two, close-in (approximately 25 miles) resorts. There are also snowmobile trails available.
Ghost towns / Museums - There are also opportunities to visit historical museums and ghost towns in the Idaho's Panhandle.
The next time you’re in the Silver Valley area, more specifically in Kellogg, and you’re looking for a place to wind down and enjoy a chill atmosphere, check out Radio Brewing Company! People all agree; the friendly staff, the wide selection of local brews, and the downright delicious food make this place a must-visit.
Where in Idaho are you reading from today? Drop a comment below and tell us which valley or region of Idaho is your favorite and why!
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