Burke
The Town in a Crack
State: Idaho
County: Shoshone County
Founded: 1884
Abandoned: 1991
Peak Population: 3,000
Burke was built in a canyon so narrow that the railroad, road, and creek all shared the same space. Most famously, the railroad tracks ran through the Tiger Hotel's ground floor. At its peak, 3,000 people lived in this cramped space. Mining decline emptied the town.
Canyon Town
Burke Canyon is so narrow that buildings were built with train tracks running through them. The Tiger Hotel is the most famous example.
Mining Decline
When silver and lead mining declined, Burke's population collapsed. Most buildings were demolished or decayed.
Timeline
- 1884 - Founded Mining began
- 1890s - Peak Population reached 3,000
- 1991 - Final Closure Last mine closed
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Train tracks ran through hotel lobby
- Canyon barely 300 feet wide
- Part of Idaho's Silver Valley EPA Superfund site
Location
Address: Burke, Idaho
Coordinates: 47.5094, -115.8367