Posted in Idaho July 01, 2016 by

This One Easy Hike In Idaho Will Lead You Someplace Unforgettable

Just south of the quaint mining town of Wallace is a hiking trail that is both serene and beautiful, with a heroic and historic backstory that only adds to its magic. This scenic, two-mile trek will lead you somewhere unforgettable as well: the historic Pulaski Tunnel, an abandoned silver mine entrance with a great deal of history in itself.

Whether you’re looking for an easy hike for the whole family or a lush and scenic escape with a huge payoff, the next time you’re up in Idaho’s Panhandle, be sure to pay a visit to this gem:

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The Edward Pulaski Tunnel and Placer Creek Escape Route is an Idaho treasure.
grove911/TA
The history of this trail dates back to 1910, when one of Idaho's most devastating wildfires swept across the state in the sweltering heat of August.
grove911/TA
The "Big Burn" consumed nearly 3 million acres as winds merged small forest fires into one immense, swirling blaze. Around 85 people lost their lives during the inferno.
Here, "Big Ed" Pulaski managed to heroically rescue all but six of his fellow firemen in the midst of the blaze.
D. Taylor in Idaho/Flickr
This is the escape route he used to guide them to safety.
The trail is a cool, easy hike in the middle of a forested canopy, right alongside Placer Creek.
grove911/TA
Exactly two miles in length each way, the trail is well-maintained and even wheelchair accessible for the first 1/4 mile.
A number of beautifully restored bridges cross the water...
grove911/TA
D. Taylor in Idaho/Flickr
Lee Stone/Flickr
The elevation gain on the Pulaski Trail is less than 800 feet, so you'll be able to enjoy the views in relative comfort.
And you'll love the lush, creek-side setting and intermittent waterfalls.
grove911/TA
The natural beauty of Northern Idaho is blissfully captured here!
Fortunately, the Pulaski Tunnel Trail is just as informative as it is beautiful.
Cbug73/TA
Gary H./TA
You'll also learn about the history and development of the Pulaski - a unique firefighting tool still in use today.
Wikimedia Commons
The design of the pulaski is credited to Ed himself.
But the escape tunnel is your destination...
Wikimedia Commons
This is where Pulaski and his men holed up during the fire. They survived by breathing in the cool air of the tunnel floor and shielding themselves from the blaze. Pulaski also fought to bring the men water from within the mine.
And believe me, it's worth the effort!
John R. Darrington/Wallce ID

In commemoration of Pulaski’s efforts, the trail he blazed through the woods to the old mine was restored into this popular informative and remembrance trail in 2003, with scenery that captures just a taste of everything Northern Idaho has to offer.

To learn more about the Pulaski Tunnel Trail, visit the Forest Service website. For details on the Big Burn of 1910 and other historical moments in Idaho, keep following Idaho Only!