When you think of Western towns, you often think about the Wild West filled with cowboys and saloons. While today, many of these small towns have become quite modernized, there are others where there is evidence of this fascinating history everywhere you turn. Challis is one of these small towns in Idaho with peak Western vibes. It may even be one small town in Idaho that you’ve never even heard of, but after one visit, you may never want to leave.

Challis is located in Custer County in Idaho. It is definitely a small town with a population of approximately 1,000 residents.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
This small town is located in one of the prettiest areas of the Gem State. It sits along the Salmon River drainage and next to the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Spend A Day Touring, LLC/Flickr
Challis was established by Alvah Challis in 1876. The town was originally developed as a supply depot for the mines and ranches in the area. By the late 1800s, Challis became home to a large number of sheepherders. By 1918, there were six times as many sheep as there were people in the entire Gem State.
BLMIdaho/Flickr
As you take a drive down the beautiful Challis Main Street, pay attention to the architecture and design of the buildings. You'll see many of the original buildings from the 1800s are still standing.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
During your visit, make sure you stop at Challis Hot Springs. This five-generation, family-owned property makes it easy to soak, relax, and enjoy your day.
Woodswoman/Google
These hot springs sit on the bank of the Salmon River and offer multiple pools. You can even stay at the campground on the property, where you are not only close to the hot pools but also to many of the incredible outdoor features of this charming Western town.

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Challis is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise with easy access to some of the best fishing, camping, ATV trails, rafting, and other outdoor activities in the Gem State.
silent7seven/Flickr
If you really want to feel like you have stepped back in time, visit Land of the Yankee Fork State Park near Challis. This unique state park in Idaho is where you will find three old ghost towns, abandoned equipment, and more.
Land of the Yankee Fork State Park and Historic Area/Facebook
While at this state park, you can visit Bayhorse, Bonanza, and Custer, fascinating ghost towns in Idaho. The latter two were once bustling mining communities with hundreds of residents. However, today, they are abandoned and ready to be explored. Bayhorse was the first mining camp along the Salmon River, and you can see many interesting pieces of equipment from this time including the kilns that were used to make charcoal.
Then, when hunger strikes, head to Shyla’s Hideaway on Main Street in Challis.
Scott Tomlinson/Google
Shyla's Hideaway/Facebook
At this restaurant, you’ll find an assortment of tasty entrees including exceptionally large sandwiches and burgers. You certainly won’t leave hungry.
While the town of Challis may be small, there is still plenty to see and do. You never know what you’ll find in this true Western town.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

Have you been to the small town of Challis? What did you love most? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

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Challis, ID 83226, USA