Rich in History

Tucked in the shadows of the beautiful Jarbidge Mountains and surrounded by wilderness, Jarbidge began as a mining town in the early 1900s when Dave Boren discovered gold there. The discovery quickly enticed a rush of nearly 5,000 people to move to the area and cash in on the valuable resource. Local historian Rey Nystrom estimates that from 1918-1919, “the area was one of the biggest gold producers in the state and may have generated 11 million dollars worth of gold.” The area is also the site of 1916’s famous horse-drawn stage robbery, which is possibly the last recorded one of its kind in the nation.  

The area is a haven for recreation, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, stream fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.  Visitors can see the mile-long Jarbidge townsite, where the historic jail, community hall, rustic mining-era homes and an interesting town cemetary tell historic gold-rush tales.  Modern accommodations are also available, such as lodging, a gas station, merchantile, gift shop and U.S. Post Office.  

Directions 
During the winter as well as summer, drive north of Wells for 85 miles on State Route 93. Turn left at Rogerson, ID and follow the road going over the Salmon Dam and passing amongst working ranches. Descend into the canyon where Murphy Hot Springs are located and continue on to Jarbidge, NV.

For more information:

Information from Idaho Public Television’s “Outdoor Idaho Borderlands”:

http://idahoptv.org/outdoors/shows/borderlands/history.cfm