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Challis, Idaho: Where the Fun Never Stops! Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

Challis takes rather more driving than a first look at the map would ever really suggest right out there. The Custer Motorway runs the whole of the ghost towns and the Salmon River runs right through the town. Goldbug Hot Springs waits at the very end of a hard walk uphill right out there. Fill up the tank before you go out there. Plan it.

Planning a trip to Challis, Idaho? Get ready for an adventure-packed vacation that leaves you breathless. Challis is a small town with a big personality, running countless chances at outdoor activities, historical exploration and a soak in natural hot springs.

Challis: More Than Just a Small Town. Don’t let Challis’ small size fool you. This town is packed with excitement and adventure. Hiking and fishing through working ghost towns and historical sites, the dull moments in Challis never come. And when you are ready to slow down, take a dip in one of the natural hot springs for a soak in nature’s jacuzzi.

Exploring the Great Outdoors. Challis suits a nature lover. With the Salmon River running through town, the chances at fishing, kayaking and rafting run plenty. And with the surrounding mountains and forests, the hiking trails to work run endless. Keep the eyes peeled for wildlife encounters, elk and deer and even bears among them.

Key Takeaways

• Challis, Idaho is a small town with big adventure.
• Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking, fishing, and wildlife encounters in Challis.
• Don’t miss out on the natural hot springs for a relaxing soak in nature’s jacuzzi.

Challis: More Than Just a Small Town

You might think Challis is only a small town in Idaho, but it runs much more than that. It might be small, but it is big on personality and charm. You will not find a more welcoming community anywhere else.

Challis sits in the heart of Central Idaho, surrounded by mountains, rivers and forests. It suits getting away from the noise of city life and taking the outdoors. Fishing, camping, hiking, or simply taking the scenery, Challis covers all four.

But Challis is not only a country town. It is a region steeped in history and culture. The Bayhorse Ghost Town through the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park, the fascinating places to work run plenty. And after a taste of the local cooking, you will not be disappointed. Challis runs some of the best cafes and restaurants in the region, serving everything from classic American dishes to international cooking.

So do not let Challis’s size fool you. This small town runs a big heart and plenty of things to do and see. Adventure, a slower pace, or simply a change of scene, you find all three in Challis.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Welcome to Challis, Idaho, which suits an outdoor enthusiast. Here are the strongest ways to work the outdoors in the area.

Fishing in Challis

Fishing enthusiasts are in for a treat in Challis. The area is home to some of the best fishing destinations in the country, the Salmon River among them, which is famous for its Steelhead and Chinook salmon. You can also try your hand at fly fishing in the many streams and rivers running through the forests. And hire a guide or join a tour to get the most out of the fishing.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Challis suits a hiker, with miles and miles of scenic trails to work. Beginner or experienced hiker, you find a trail that fits either way. You can also rent a bike and work the area on it. The trails are well-maintained and carry long views of the surrounding forests and mountains.

Camping in the Wilderness

After a real wilderness experience? Camping in Challis should not be skipped. Several campgrounds run in the area, but feeling adventurous? You can set up camp in the backcountry. Just follow the rules and regulations to preserve the wilderness for future generations.

Horseback Riding Adventures

To work the wilderness in style, why not try a horseback riding adventure? Several outfitters in the area run guided horseback rides through the forests and mountains. You can even set up a base camp and work the area on horseback for a stretch.

White Water Rafting on the Salmon River

For an adrenaline rush, try white water rafting on the Salmon River. The river runs some of the best rapids in the country, and several outfitters run guided rafting tours. Beginner or experienced rafter, a thrilling run on the Salmon River follows either way.

So pack the bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Challis, Idaho. The wilderness is waiting.

Historical Sites and Ghost Towns

History buffs and anybody who loves working old abandoned places get some strong options in Challis. Here are two sites not to be skipped by anybody interested in the area’s mining past and ghost towns.

The Tale of Bayhorse Ghost Town

Bayhorse was once a busy mining town in the late 1800s, but now it is a ghost town with a fascinating history. Legend has it Bayhorse was named after a horse that wandered into town and was never claimed by its owner. The horse was so beloved by the townspeople that they named the town after it.

Today you can work the town’s remaining buildings, a saloon and hotel and general store among them. You might even catch a glimpse of the ghost of the horse that started it all.

Land of The Yankee Fork Historic Area

To learn more about the mining history of Challis, the Land of The Yankee Fork Historic Area is a strong place to start. This area runs three ghost towns: Bonanza, Custer and Bayhorse, the same Bayhorse as above.

You can take a self-guided tour of the area, which runs interpretive signs and exhibits. And feeling adventurous? You can even work some of the old mine shafts, carefully.

Overall, Challis suits anybody interested in history and ghost towns. Do not miss these two sites for a taste of the area’s mining past.

Hot Springs: Nature’s Jacuzzi

You cannot talk about Challis, Idaho without the hot springs. These natural wonders work like Mother Nature’s Jacuzzi, running a therapeutic soak that leaves you reset.

One of the most popular hot springs in the area is Goldbug Hot Springs. Sitting just outside of Challis, this hot spring is known for its natural temperature control. You can soak in the hot water while taking the cool mountain air, which makes for an unusual experience.

Feeling adventurous? Take the rock pools at the hot springs. These natural pools are made by the rocks in the area and run a more secluded and intimate soak. It works like your own private hot tub in the middle of nature.

But be warned, because the hike to Goldbug Hot Springs runs a bit hard, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. But trust us, the view from the top is worth it.

So grab the swimsuit and head to the hot springs for a soak that sticks. Just bring a towel and some snacks, because you are going to want to stay awhile.

Wildlife Encounters

Nature lovers get plenty out of Challis. With the Salmon-Challis National Forest and the Challis Herd Management Area, the chances to see wildlife across the range run plenty.

Head to the Challis Herd Management Area and you likely spot wild horses, deer and antelope. Be patient and keep the eyes peeled, and you might even see a group of horses grazing in the distance. Just keep a safe distance and respect their space.

After a more active wildlife encounter? Consider elk hunting in the surrounding area. Challis is known for its abundant elk population, so grab the gear and head out for a thrilling hunting run.

For a slower experience, visit one of the nearby fish camps. You can fish for trout and other species in the nearby rivers and streams. It is a strong way to spend a lazy afternoon and take the scenery.

And take a hike and work the unusual rock formations in the area. You see towering cliffs and geological features that get you. Just stay on the designated trails and respect the natural environment.

Overall, Challis runs wildlife encounters across the range for nature enthusiasts. A peaceful afternoon of fishing or an adrenaline-pumping hunting run, you find both here.

May brings the Cowboy Gathering and the whole town fills up for the weekend out there. August puts the mountain bike race on and the trails stay dry the whole way through. Winter closes a good many of the businesses, so check the hours before you drive up there. Time the whole of it right.

Food and Shopping in Challis

You have spent the day working the natural wonders of Challis, Idaho and now it is time to fuel up with some strong food and do some shopping. Challis covers you.

Restaurants

Challis may be a small town, but it knows how to cook up a storm. Restaurants across the range run here, serving everything from classic American fare to Mexican cooking. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Tea Cup Cafe & Bakery: If you’re in the mood for some good old-fashioned comfort food, head to Tea Cup Cafe & Bakery. Their menu is full of hearty breakfast options and classic American dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
• Village Inn Restaurant: For some delicious country cooking, look no further than Village Inn Restaurant. Their breakfast and lunch menus are extensive, featuring everything from biscuits and gravy to char-broiled steaks.
• Y-Inn Cafe: If you’re on the go and need a quick bite, stop by Y-Inn Cafe. Their breakfast burritos are huge and delicious, perfect for fueling up before a day of adventure.

Shopping

Challis may not run a lot of shopping options, but the ones it does run are worth taking. Here are a few stores not to be missed:

• The Bent Rod Outdoors: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love The Bent Rod Outdoors. They have everything you need for fishing, hunting, and camping, plus a great selection of gifts and souvenirs.
• Challis Drug: Need to stock up on some essentials? Head to Challis Drug. They have a little bit of everything, from groceries to toiletries to clothing.
• The Rustic Rose: Looking for a unique gift or home decor item? The Rustic Rose has got you covered. They specialize in rustic and vintage-inspired pieces that will add charm to any space.

In the mood for a hearty meal or some retail therapy, Challis runs plenty either way. So go ahead and take a little, because you have earned it after a day of working the area.

Festivals and Events

You might think Challis is a small town with not much going on, but you would be wrong. Plenty of festivals and events run through the year and they keep you entertained.

One of the most popular events in Challis is the Annual Salmon River Cowboy Gathering. This event runs every year in May and brings cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country. You can expect live music, poetry readings and even a cowboy church service. It is a strong chance to take the cowboy way of life and meet some friendly locals.

After something a little more active? Take the Challis Hot Springs Mountain Bike Race. This event runs in August and is a strong way to work the scenery around Challis. The race is open to riders of all skill levels, so do not worry if you are not an experienced mountain biker. And the race is not crowded, so getting stuck in a pack of riders is not a worry.

Another fun event to take is the Challis Arts and Crafts Fair. This event runs in July and features over 100 vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry and other unusual items. It is a strong place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.

Finally, to give back to the community, consider volunteering at one of the many events in Challis. Opportunities for volunteers always run at events like the Salmon River Cowboy Gathering and the Challis Arts and Crafts Fair. And volunteering is a strong way to meet new people and make some new friends.

Overall, something fun is always happening in Challis. A cowboy experience, a mountain bike race, or a chance to give back to the community, you find all three here. So what is the hold-up? Get out there and start working it.

Planning Your Visit to Challis

So you are planning a trip to Challis, Idaho? You have made an excellent choice. Working the outdoors, soaking in natural hot springs, or simply escaping the noise of city life, Challis covers all three.

Before you pack the bags and hit the road, here are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of the visit:

Timing is Everything

Challis is a small town, so plan the visit around the town’s schedule. Many businesses and attractions run limited hours or close on certain days of the week. Check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Road Trip Ready

Challis sits in the heart of Idaho, so you are likely driving to get there. Make sure the vehicle is up to the task before you hit the road. You do not want to be stranded on the side of the highway with a flat tire or an overheated engine.

Budget Accordingly

Challis runs affordable, but budget accordingly all the same. Lodging, food and activities add up quickly. Do the research ahead of time to find the best deals and discounts. And do not be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations, because they know the area best.

Reviews Matter

Challis may be a small town, but read reviews before booking lodging or activities all the same. TripAdvisor is a strong resource for honest reviews from previous visitors. Do not be swayed by a negative review or two, because reading opinions across the range gives a well-rounded idea of what to expect.

Information is Key

Before you arrive in Challis, have all the information you need. This includes maps, brochures and contact information for local businesses and attractions. The Challis Chamber of Commerce is a strong resource for this.

Now that you know what to expect, pack the bags and hit the road. Get ready for an adventure that sticks.

A Day in the Life of a Challis Resident

You are now a proud resident of Challis, Idaho. You wake to the sound of birds chirping and the smell of fresh mountain air. You stretch the arms and legs, ready to take on a new day in this charming town.

First things first, you need to fuel up for the day ahead. You head to the local diner, The Village Inn, for a hearty breakfast. You order their famous pancakes, topped with huckleberry syrup, and a side of crispy bacon. The friendly staff greet you by name and ask about the plans for the day.

After breakfast, you take a stroll around town. You walk down Main Street, taking the quaint shops and historic buildings. You stop by the Challis Museum to learn the town’s long history and the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park to see actual mining equipment.

Next, you head to the Challis Hot Springs to slow down. You soak in the natural hot springs, surrounded by long views of the Salmon River and the surrounding mountains. You also take a dip in the pool and take a refreshing drink from the on-site bar.

As the day comes to a close, you head to the River of No Return Brewery for some local brews and live music. You chat with the friendly locals and trade stories about life in Challis.

Finally, you head back to the cozy home, grateful for another strong day in this charming town. You cannot wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The Rich History of Challis

Welcome to Challis, where the past is always present. This small town in Idaho runs deep on history, and it is impossible to visit without feeling like you have stepped back in time. The Shoshone and Shoshone-Bannock tribes first called this land home. The explorers Lewis and Clark came through later with their guide Sacajawea. Challis has a story to tell.

Sacajawea was born in this area. She was a member of the Agaidika tribe of the Lemhi Shoshone, and she played a crucial role in the Corps of Discovery’s expedition westward. To learn more about her life and legacy, take the Sacajawea Center, which runs exhibits, educational programs and more.

Lewis and Clark were not the only ones to pass through this part of Idaho. The Shoshone people have lived here for thousands of years. Their culture and traditions are still alive today. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, who hold a reservation a drive south of Challis, carry their own long history and a strong community.

History buff or simply somebody after a fun and educational run, Challis is the place. Working the Custer Motorway through visiting the Bayhorse Ghost Town and Trails System, the ways into the past run plenty while the modern amenities of this town stay to hand. So what is the hold-up? Come and work the history of Challis today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it true that Challis, Idaho is secretly the fun capital of the world?

We cannot confirm or deny that claim, but Challis, Idaho is definitely a fun place to visit. Between its natural beauty, its outdoor recreation and its friendly locals, a strong time follows.

Can you really call yourself an adventurer if you haven’t visited Bayhorse Lake in Challis?

We would not go that far, but Bayhorse Lake should not be skipped by any outdoor enthusiast. This pristine alpine lake sits surrounded by towering mountains and runs some of the best fishing and hiking in the area. And the nearby Bayhorse Ghost Town is a fascinating piece of history worth working.

What’s the best way to relax after a long day of exploring Challis, Idaho?

For the ultimate slow-down, you cannot go wrong with a soak in one of Challis’s famous hot springs. The Challis Hot Springs and Sunbeam Hot Springs are both popular options, and for good reason, because nothing else quite matches a natural hot spring after a long day of hiking or fishing.

Are the hot springs in Challis, Idaho worth the hype?

Absolutely. The hot springs in Challis are some of the best in the country, and they run an unusual soak that resets you. Soothing sore muscles or simply slowing down, a soak in one of Challis’s hot springs sticks either way.

Can you handle the heat at Sunbeam Hot Springs in Challis?

That depends on your tolerance for hot water. Sunbeam Hot Springs is known for its piping hot water, which can reach 116 degrees Fahrenheit. But do not worry, because cooler pools run there if you need to cool off.

What’s the most interesting piece of history you’ve learned about Challis, Idaho?

So many fascinating pieces of history run in Challis that choosing one is hard. But we go with the fact that Challis was once home to a thriving mining industry, and the remnants of that industry still show today in ghost towns, abandoned mines and historic buildings. History buffs should not miss Challis.

Frequently asked questions about Challis, Idaho

How hard exactly is the whole of the trail up to Goldbug Hot Springs out there, then, really now, in the end?

It climbs the whole of the way and the trail asks for real shoes out there. Water matters more than anything else you carry up that whole hill out there. The rock pools at the top hold the heat and the mountain air stays cool. Worth it.

What exactly sits out at the whole of the Land of the Yankee Fork Historic Area out there, then, really now, in the end?

It holds three ghost towns and Bonanza and Custer and Bayhorse all sit inside it. Interpretive signs run the whole of the self-guided route through the old mining ground. Old mine shafts stand open out there, so keep well back from them. Go careful.

How hot exactly does the water at Sunbeam Hot Springs actually run out there, then, really now, in the end?

It reaches 116 degrees Fahrenheit at the hottest end of the whole thing. Cooler pools sit alongside out there for anybody who cannot take that much heat. The Salmon River runs right past it the whole of the way down. Test first.

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