If you’re like me and sometimes crave a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, Eastern Idaho has some hidden gems that offer just that. I’ve explored this region and discovered ten secluded towns where serenity and nature are in abundance.
These communities are perfect for anyone looking to unplug and soak in the beauty of untouched landscapes. From quiet farming villages to mountain hideaways, each town has its own unique charm that makes it special. Join me as we count down these tranquil spots where you can truly get away from it all.
10. Hamer: Wide-Open Landscapes in Jefferson County
Hamer is a small town with a population of about 50 people, offering a peaceful setting amid expansive fields and far-reaching horizons. When I visited, I enjoyed the simplicity of life here, surrounded by agricultural lands that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Farming is the mainstay of Hamer’s economy, with local residents engaged in crop cultivation and livestock rearing. What makes Hamer secluded is its low population density and minimal commercial development, allowing for a quiet atmosphere untainted by city noise.
The vast open spaces provide a sense of freedom and solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Hamer?
Located in Jefferson County, Hamer sits in the northeastern part of Idaho, not far from the Montana border. This town’s seclusion is enhanced by its distance from major highways and urban centers, nestled amidst rolling farmlands and prairies.
To reach Hamer, I took U.S. Route 20 and enjoyed a scenic drive through rural landscapes, making it accessible yet removed enough to feel truly isolated. Its location away from bustling cities contributes to the tranquil environment that defines this charming community.
9. Annis: Rural Farming Community with Open Spaces
Annis is a quaint community with around 1,000 residents, known for its agricultural roots and sweeping open spaces. During my time there, I found that the town revolves around farming, with vast fields of potatoes, grains, and other crops painting the landscape.
The main industry here is agriculture, and many families have been farming these lands for generations. Annis feels secluded due to its large lot sizes and the absence of urban development, offering a peaceful rural lifestyle. The wide-open spaces provide a sense of privacy and a close connection with nature.
Where is Annis?
Annis is situated in Madison County, just northeast of the city of Rexburg in Eastern Idaho. Its seclusion comes from being tucked away off the main roads, surrounded by farmland and away from commercial districts.
To get there, I took local county roads that wind through the countryside, making the journey itself a serene experience. The town’s location ensures a quiet environment, perfect for those wanting to escape the noise and pace of city life.
8. Spencer: Tiny Town Known for Opals
With a population of only about 40 people, Spencer is one of the smallest towns I’ve ever visited, but it’s big on charm. It’s famed for its opal mines, and I loved that you can even dig for your own opals at the Spencer Opal Mine.
The main industry here revolves around opal mining and tourism related to gem hunting. Spencer’s remote location and tiny population make it a wonderfully secluded spot. The surrounding mountainous terrain adds to the sense of isolation, creating a peaceful haven for residents and visitors alike.
Where is Spencer?
Spencer is located in Clark County, near the Montana border in Eastern Idaho. Its seclusion is enhanced by its position along Interstate 15, yet it’s far enough from larger towns to maintain a quiet atmosphere.
When I drove there, it was a scenic route through mountainous landscapes, and the town felt tucked away in its own world. Accessibility by the interstate makes it reachable, but its remote surroundings keep it intimate and serene.
7. Warm River: A Small Haven Near Caribou-Targhee National Forest
Warm River is a tiny community with fewer than 10 residents, making it one of the most secluded places I’ve come across. Nestled near the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, it’s a paradise for nature lovers like me.
Fishing, hiking, and camping are popular activities, with the Warm River itself offering a serene spot for trout fishing. The town doesn’t have major industries, which contributes to its tranquility. Its proximity to the forest and minimal population make it an ideal retreat away from tourist-heavy areas.
Where is Warm River?
Situated in Fremont County, Warm River is in the northeastern part of Eastern Idaho. Its seclusion is amplified by its location off the main roads, accessible via a small county road off U.S. Route 20.
Getting there, I felt immersed in nature, passing through dense forests and alongside rivers. The town’s hidden position near the national forest ensures a quiet environment, far removed from the distractions of urban life.
6. Gibbonsville: A Secluded Mountain Community
Gibbonsville, with a population of around 60 people, lies nestled in the mountains, offering seclusion and stunning natural beauty. I was captivated by the surrounding Salmon-Challis National Forest, which provides ample opportunities for hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
The town doesn’t have significant industries, with residents typically involved in small-scale enterprises or enjoying retirement. Gibbonsville’s seclusion is enhanced by its mountainous setting and low housing density, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking privacy.
Where is Gibbonsville?
Located in Lemhi County, Gibbonsville sits close to the Montana border in Eastern Idaho. The town is tucked away along U.S. Route 93, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests.
Driving there, I experienced winding mountain roads that add to the sense of remoteness. Its location amidst natural barriers contributes to its secluded atmosphere, providing a peaceful retreat far from crowded areas.
5. Carmen: Quiet Living Near Salmon
Carmen is a small community with about 350 residents, offering a tranquil lifestyle near the city of Salmon. I appreciated the large lot sizes and spacious properties, which provide plenty of room to breathe.
The main industry is agriculture, with some residents commuting to Salmon for work. Carmen’s seclusion comes from its setting away from commercial zones and its spread-out residences, allowing for peace and quiet in everyday life.
Where is Carmen?
Carmen is located in Lemhi County, just north of Salmon in Eastern Idaho. It’s nestled along the Salmon River, surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural land.
To reach Carmen, I took U.S. Route 93, but the town itself lies off the main highway, adding to its secluded feel. The proximity to Salmon provides convenience without sacrificing the tranquility that defines this rural community.
4. Lemhi: Serenity at the Foot of the Bitterroot Range
Lemhi is a tiny unincorporated community with fewer than 100 residents, offering serene rural landscapes and a deep sense of peace. When I visited, I was struck by the town’s quiet atmosphere and the stunning backdrop of the Bitterroot Range.
There’s not much in the way of industry here, with locals embracing a simple, country lifestyle. Lemhi’s distance from bustling towns and its spacious surroundings make it an ideal spot for seclusion seekers.
Where is Lemhi?
Situated in Lemhi County, Lemhi is nestled near the confluence of the Lemhi and Salmon Rivers in Eastern Idaho. Its secluded nature is enhanced by its location off State Highway 28, away from major traffic routes.
Getting there involved traveling through scenic valleys and along riverbanks, which added to the sense of remoteness. The town’s placement at the foot of the mountains ensures a quiet environment, perfect for those wanting to disconnect.
3. Kilgore: Remote Peace in the Upper Snake River Valley
Kilgore is an unincorporated area with a sparse population, offering vast open spaces and breathtaking natural beauty. I found it to be a place where you can truly escape, surrounded by panoramic views of the Centennial Mountains.
There aren’t significant industries, which adds to the peacefulness of the area. Kilgore’s minimal population and remote location make it perfect for anyone seeking solitude amidst nature.
Where is Kilgore?
Located in Clark County, Kilgore is situated in the Upper Snake River Valley in Eastern Idaho. Its seclusion is due to its remote setting far from major highways and towns.
I reached Kilgore via gravel roads that wind through scenic landscapes, enhancing the feeling of isolation. The journey itself felt like an adventure, leading to a place where peace and quiet are the norm.
2. Ellis: Riverside Solitude Along the Salmon River
Ellis is a small community with around 50 residents, nestled along the Salmon River. I enjoyed the tranquil setting, where fishing and rafting are popular activities. The town doesn’t have major industries, contributing to its peaceful atmosphere.
Ellis’s seclusion stems from its distance from urban centers and its riverside location, offering a serene environment where you can relax and unwind.
Where is Ellis?
Ellis is located in Custer County, along U.S. Route 93 in Eastern Idaho. Even though it’s on a highway, the town remains secluded due to its small size and surrounding wilderness.
The road to Ellis offers stunning views of the river and mountains, and reaching it felt like stepping into a quiet retreat. Its location along the Salmon River enhances its serene and isolated character.
1. Baker: Hidden Gem in Lemhi County
Baker is an unincorporated community with a handful of residents, truly a hidden gem in Eastern Idaho. Nestled in the mountains, it’s surrounded by untouched wilderness and expansive lots.
When I visited, I was captivated by the natural beauty and the opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. There’s no significant industry here, which keeps the area pristine.
Baker’s seclusion comes from its remote mountain location and the vast distances between properties, offering ultimate privacy.
Where is Baker?
Baker is located in Lemhi County, tucked away in the Beaverhead Mountains of Eastern Idaho. Its secluded nature is due to its position far from main roads and towns.
I reached Baker via rugged mountain roads, which added to the sense of adventure and isolation. The town’s remote location ensures a peaceful environment, making it the perfect escape for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
