Haunted Hikes: Spooky Tales of Spooky Trails to Explore This Halloween
Halloween isn’t just for haunted houses and trick-or-treating; it’s also the perfect time to explore some of the eeriest hiking trails across the United States. These trails are not just known for their natural beauty but for spine-chilling stories of ghosts, strange noises, and unsettling experiences that leave hikers wondering if they're truly alone. Sounds completely the opposite of up our alley but we would love someone to check these out and live to tell us the tale! Here are a few haunted hikes worth checking out if you’re looking for a spooky adventure this October:
BLOODY LANE TRAIL, ANTIETAM NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD – MARYLAND
Antietam is one of the most haunted battlefields in America, and Bloody Lane Trail is said to be its eeriest spot. The area earned its name from the Battle of Antietam during the Civil War, which saw more than 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing in a single day. Hikers report hearing ghostly gunfire, drum rolls, and soldiers' cries. Some have even claimed to see ghostly figures marching in formation or wounded soldiers staggering through the fog. Whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker, the haunted history of Bloody Lane Trail makes for an unforgettable, hair-raising hike.
National Park Service Info: HERE.
SPRUCE RAILROAD TRAIL, OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK – WASHINGTON
The Spruce Railroad Trail runs along Lake Crescent, a place with a reputation for eerie happenings. In 1940, the body of Hallie Latham Illingworth, a woman who had gone missing three years earlier, was found in the lake. Her body was so well-preserved by the cold water that it became known as the "Lady of the Lake." Ever since, hikers have reported seeing a ghostly woman on the trail or near the water’s edge, her presence accompanied by an unnerving chill. The scenic beauty of Lake Crescent is contrasted by its ghostly legends, making this trail perfect for a Halloween adventure.
AllTrails Info: HERE.
GHOST HOUSE TRAIL, BIG RIDGE STATE PARK – TENNESSEE
As its name suggests, the Ghost House Trail in Tennessee is known for its haunted history. The trail circles around an old homestead once owned by the Hutchinson family. According to local legend, Mary Hutchinson’s ghost haunts the area after her mysterious death. Hikers have reported hearing footsteps, disembodied voices, and even the cries of a child. Some say they’ve seen glowing orbs or felt cold spots in certain parts of the trail, adding to the spine-tingling atmosphere.
Tennessee State Parks Info: HERE.MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK – KENTUCKY
Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest cave system, and it’s also one of the most haunted places in America. The cave’s ghost stories date back to the 1800s, with tales of lost explorers and tragic accidents. Visitors have claimed to hear whispers, see shadowy figures, and even encounter the ghost of Floyd Collins, a caver who tragically died while exploring the cave in 1925. Though the spooky encounters mainly happen inside the cave, the surrounding trails can be equally unnerving, with stories of ghostly apparitions wandering the woods.
National Park Service Info: HERE.
HELLS HOLLOW TRAIL, MCCONNELLS MILL STATE PARK – PENNSYLVANIA
Hells Hollow Trail might sound terrifying enough by name, but the area’s legends make it even creepier. The trail leads to the site of an old lime kiln where it’s rumored that a worker fell in and met a fiery end. Hikers have reported hearing strange noises, like a man’s screams echoing in the night, and seeing shadowy figures moving in the trees. The dense forest and rugged terrain only add to the feeling of unease as you walk through this allegedly haunted area.
AllTrails Info: HERE.
WHY DO THESE TRAILS FEEL HAUNTED?
The spooky nature of these haunted hikes often stems from a combination of historical events and local legends. Sites of battles, tragic accidents, or untimely deaths seem to retain a certain energy that many believe manifests in the form of ghostly apparitions, sounds, or sensations. Whether you believe in the supernatural or think it's just the power of suggestion, there's no denying that these haunted hikes have a unique and eerie allure—especially around Halloween.
For those who crave a blend of outdoor adventure and spooky thrills, these haunted hikes provide the perfect opportunity to explore the supernatural side of nature. If you’re planning to hit one of these trails, make sure to bring a buddy and your Zip Hers gear for added convenience and comfort—because when nature calls, you don't want to be caught unprepared, especially if something otherworldly is lurking nearby. BOO!
Happy haunting, and stay safe out there!
