Caribou City, Idaho, Bonneville County is a fascinating ghost town that once thrived during the gold rush era but now stands silent in the scenic landscapes of Idaho. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Bonneville County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 43.2033° N, 111.3767° W
Elevation: Approximately 6,600 feet (2,012 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
Established: 1870
Disestablished: 1890
Comments: Caribou City was established following the discovery of gold in the Caribou Mountains. The town quickly grew to accommodate a population of around 1,500, attracted by the prospect of wealth.
However, the gold deposits were not as extensive as hoped, leading to a rapid decline in prosperity and population. Caribou City was named after Caribou Jack, who discovered gold on Caribou Mountain above the town.
Almost immediately, a town arose overnight. It was settled in 1897. It was mainly a tent town and later had 1,500 residents, a close competition to Eagle Rock(Idaho Falls)and Pocatello residents. 1,673,892 dollars worth of gold were deposited from the mines around Caribou City. In 1900, a post office was built, and at the time, Caribou City boasted 32 whorehouses, saloons, and gambling dens.
There were about 700 Chinese miners who inhabited Caribou City over the years. In 1930, the last resident, who was 96 years old, was moved to nearby Swan Valley, where he lived with family members. At its prime, Caribou City was one of the biggest mining camps in the American West.
Caribou City and nearby Caribou Mountain can be reached from Henry north of Soda Springs on Highway 30, about 21 miles north of Henry. If nyou are ot sure, just ask locals, and they will gladly point out Caribou City and Mountain.
Remains: Today, very little remains of Caribou City. The site is mostly overgrown, with only a few foundations and remnants of wooden structures visible to visitors. The natural environment has largely reclaimed the area, leaving it a quiet reminder of the past.
Current Status: Caribou City is classified as a ghost town. Due to weather conditions, it is largely inaccessible during certain times of the year, preserving its untouched appearance.
Remarks: Caribou City reminds us of the transient nature of mining towns that rapidly rose and fell during the gold rush era. Its remote location and harsh conditions provide a stark contrast to the bustling activity that once characterized the town.
Visitors to the site can experience a sense of solitude and reflection, standing in a place once filled with dreams and aspirations.
