12 Abandoned Places In Idaho That Nature Is Reclaiming

 

Whether by Mother Nature herself, or by the rusty, natural processes that come with the passage of Father Time, Idaho is home to a number of historical places and abandoned structures that have become stunning vintage relics even in their disrepair. Slowly but surely, nature weaves its way into the cracks and crevices of aging bricks, concrete, and wood panels, and before you know it, all that remains is the debris of once was. Yet even amidst the rubble and rust, these homages to histories recent and long-gone still retain their proud, Idahoan beauty. There’s no doubting the intriguing allure of abandoned places in Idaho. 

Local photographers with a passion for history and the interaction between the natural and man-made capture these haunting scenes of architecture returning to its natural roots, while local communities like Abandoned Idaho compile these images for appreciative viewers. These photos and locales are just a taste of Idaho’s past made even more picturesque in its decay. Enjoy!

1. This graveyard of abandoned, vintage cars in Caldwell is simply surreal.

Abandoned Idaho/Facebook

Abandoned Idaho/Facebook

Vibrant colors and rust mix with leaves, debris, and new growth here, and it's absolutely wonderful.

2. These homestead ruins in the City of Rocks still showcase beautful views through their stone windows.

3. All that is left of this abandoned Lewiston gas station is its concrete walls and boarded-up windows.

In more urban settings, nature is slower to take its course.

4. This rustic building in Southeast Idaho makes the perfect trellis for the plain’s native growth.

Little remains of this prairie homestead aside from the secrets that were kept within its walls.

5. Abandoned mines and workers' homes, like this one in Boulder Creek, are a true Idaho treasure, showcasing Idaho's historic craftsmanship and unique heritage.

Many mining towns were built seemingly overnight, and were often salvaged from a multitude of materials. This quaint log cabin is an exception.

6. This abandoned farm in Middleton is rich with rustic charm and antiques.

7. When nature and man-made architecture collide, something beautifully eerie happens.

8. This Sand Hollow gas station is vibrantly lovely in its rust-colored glory.

9. Hundreds of abandoned homes are scattered across Idaho, like this cottage in Marsing.

It is estimated that there are over 18 million abandoned homes in the US. Just imagine the histories buried within these neglected walls!

10. Notus is another tiny town that houses dozens of residential ruins and vintage relics, aged with time.

11. Abandoned cemeteries are both remarkable and heartbreaking to see, but Boot Hill Cemetery in Idaho City is especially intriguing.

Established roughly around 1860, this cemetery has been scorched by multiple fires, leaving only a few hundred of its thousands of headstones intact or readable.

12. The Old Idaho Penitentiary is no doubt one of the Gem State's most fascinating and popular set of urban ruins for good reason.

Built by the inmates who were housed within its sandstone cells, the Old Pen has seen thousands of prisoners and thousands more curious visitors pass through its grounds. Exploring the peeling paint, crumbling walls, and rusted prison chambers is a historic tour that you won't soon forget.

Sadly, many of these buildings across Idaho will not stand for long. Neither time nor nature discriminates and both will play their role little by little. Photographers, ruins-lovers, and artists timelessly preserve these precious peeks into history for the world to see. Another sincere thank you to the wonderful photographers who have so generously shared their work here.

As always, if you know the stories behind any of these fascinating areas, be sure to share them and your favorite photos on our Facebook page!

Have you been to any of these abandoned places in Idaho? If you’re looking for more intriguing places to visit, check out these spooky ghost towns in Idaho.