"I HAVEN'T BEEN EVERY-
WHERE
BUT IT'S ON
MY LIST."
Susan Sontag
The Tobacco Valley is comprised of Eureka, Rexford, West Kootenai, Fortine, Trego, and Stryker communities.
The name "Tobacco Valley" is believed to have originated from the tobacco that was grown in the area by the Kootenai and Salish tribes, who used it for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.
Today, the Tobacco Valley is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of recreational opportunities throughout the year. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and boating on Lake Koocanusa. In the winter, the area is popular for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and other winter sports in the Kootenai National Forest.
One of the notable attractions in Tobacco Valley is the Tobacco Valley Historical Village. This outdoor museum features historic buildings, exhibits, and artifacts that showcase the history of the area, including the logging and mining industries that played a significant role in the development of Eureka and the surrounding region. The village also includes a replica of an early 20th century schoolhouse, a pioneer cabin, a church, and a blacksmith shop.