There’s nothing quite like the combination of nature’s beauty and a chilling ghost story to add an edge to your hiking experience. Across the U.S., some trails offer more than just scenic views—they carry eerie tales of the past, paranormal sightings, and a sense of mystery that draws thrill-seekers and hikers alike.
If you love the great outdoors and the supernatural, these haunted hiking trails are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Haunted Trails by Region
Bloody Lane Trail Maryland
Distance: 3km
Time to Complete: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Haunting History: This trail runs through the heart of the Antietam National Battlefield, the site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. The spirits of the fallen are said to linger here, and hikers have reported hearing ghostly battle sounds—like the cries of soldiers, gunfire, and cannons—emanating from the fog.
Transept Trail, Arizona
Distance: 6km
Time to Complete: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Haunting History: The Grand Canyon is home to many stories, but none are quite as famous as that of the “Wandering Woman.” According to legend, her ghost roams the North Rim, searching for her family who fell to their deaths. Hikers have reported seeing her eerie figure and hearing cries that echo through the canyon at twilight.
Cumberland Trail, Tennessee
Distance: 9km
Time to Complete: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Haunting History: Running through the beautiful ridges and valleys of Tennessee, the Cumberland Trail has its share of ghost stories.
Most notably, hikers near Signal Mountain have reported hearing strange noises, seeing ghostly figures, and feeling a presence along the trail—believed to be the spirits of miners who perished in accidents during the area’s coal-mining days.
Old man’s cave trail, Ohio
Distance: 3km
Time to Complete: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Haunting History: Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio is home to a series of interconnected trails, with Old Man’s Cave being one of the most famous. According to legend, the cave was the hideout of an old hermit whose ghost still lingers in the area. Hikers have reported eerie whispers, ghostly shadows, and a strange sense of unease in certain parts of the trail.
Appalachian Trail, Virgina sect
Distance: 10km
Time to Complete: 3 Hours
Difficulty: Medium
Haunting History: Spanning from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is America’s most famous long-distance hiking path—and it’s also a hotbed for ghost stories.
One of the most well-known tales is the Greenbrier Ghost in West Virginia, where a woman is said to haunt the trail after her mysterious death. Other hikers have reported eerie sensations, hearing unexplainable noises, and seeing shadowy figures while hiking isolated stretches of the trail.
Tips for Hiking Haunted Trails Safely
Be Prepared & Stay Safe: Whether you’re searching for ghosts or just a beautiful hike, make sure you’re well-prepared:
- Pack Properly: Always bring a flashlight, plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and wear sturdy hiking boots.
- Hike with a Partner: Especially on haunted trails, it’s always more fun and safe to hike with a friend.
Conclusion
From battlefields filled with lingering spirits to trails known for eerie apparitions, haunted hikes offer a unique way to experience the outdoors. Whether you’re seeking stunning views or hoping for a paranormal encounter, these trails will give you an adventure filled with both beauty and chills.
