Hikers are seeking not just the most scenic trails anymore but ones lingering with spirits and paranormal activity. Increase the stakes this summer and find out whether you’re brave enough to join thrill-seekers on a chilling adventure. From the ghosts that roam the Appalachians to creepy campfire tales, prepare to dive into the eerie unknown.
Eerie hikes of the Appalachian Mountains
Besides being almost 2,000 miles of beautiful ridges and valleys, the Appalachian Mountains are home to several haunted trails where hikers have experienced strange, unexplainable phenomena. Thrill-seekers visit these specific trails, hoping to encounter ghosts and other supernatural entities.
The Ghost House Trail in Big Ridge State Park, Tennessee, is well-known for its paranormal activity, hence its name. This loop takes you through the Hutchinson family home, where the daughter, Mary, died of tuberculosis. People have reported hearing a ghost dog panting and running behind them; others have heard Mary’s cries from the family home. The trail also runs by a cemetery, where visitors have spotted a ghost of a Civil War soldier.
The Norton Creek Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also part of the Appalachians and has a reputation for being haunted. Many years ago, a settler was killed in these woods while searching for his missing daughter. Hikers who have gotten lost have reported being guided out by a ghostly light, which is believed to belong to the settler who is now trying to help others avoid the same fate as his daughter.
The mysterious woods of the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is a region in the northwestern United States and Canada, bordered by Washington, Oregon, Idaho and British Columbia. This region is known for its collection of eerie hiking trails.
In 1910, an avalanche struck the area where the Iron Goat Trail in Washington now lies. Most of the victims who passed away were railroad workers. Hikers have reported being grabbed by the ghostly figures of the victims, hearing screams and even having conversations with these entities in the old tunnels.
If you ever want to catch a glimpse of Bigfoot, the Olympic National Park in Washington may be your best bet. Numerous sightings of this large, hairy creature have been spotted within the park’s dense forests. Verify whether legends are true by going on a wild chase in these woods.
Ghostly tales around campfires
Surrounded by the dark, mysterious forest, the flickering campfire creates a spooky atmosphere for sharing stories of the supernatural. It’s the perfect way to end a day of hiking haunted paths. As you pass around snacks like vegan spam and huddle closer together, it’s time to share captivating stories that will get people jumping out of fear from their seats.
The Jersey Devil of the Pinelands is a tale most effective when shared camping in New Jersey’s Pinelands. The Jersey Devil is described as a creature resembling a kangaroo, with a horse-like head, bat wings, horns and a tail. It was believed to have been the thirteenth child of Mrs. Leed, a resident of the Pine Barrens. Mrs. Leed was so distraught with being pregnant for the thirteenth time that she cursed the child to become the devil. For over 250 years, the Jersey Devil has been rumored to rampage the area, causing damage to crops, killing animals and frightening residents.
The allure of being spooked
You may wonder who in their right mind would seek out these frightening entities as a pastime. Instead of having a normal hobby like cooking taco casserole on a Saturday afternoon, enthusiasts are setting foot on haunted paths, hoping to encounter the ghosts of the Hutchinson family.
It turns out that the appeal of these adventures is psychological. According to Concordia University St. Paul, experiencing scary things triggers a rush of adrenaline. After physical reactions like heavy breathing and fast heart rate wear off, people feel intense relief as endorphins and dopamine flood the brain. Those who enjoy this up-and-down tend to have a higher sensation-seeking trait.
The tradition of storytelling also serves as a form of cultural preservation. Although spooky, these ghostly legends reflect local history and discuss immoral behaviors. The art of storytelling is kept alive through campfire sessions, passing down tales to new generations.
Safety tips for haunted explorations
If you’re itching to explore trails with a creepy atmosphere, remember to prioritize safety during your adventures. Hike in groups and let your friends and family know of your plans. Stay on marked trails and bring extra layers of clothing and flashlights for night hikes. Pack water, snacks or light meals, like a slice of that leftover chicken tamale pie, in case of emergencies. When telling stories around the campfire, remember to practice fire safety — the most successful spooky adventures are the ones where everyone remains safe.
Are you ready for some spine-tingling thrill?
The mysterious trails hidden in the Appalachian and the Pacific Northwest are inhabited by some of the most frightening spirits encountered by fellow hikers. For brave souls searching for a chilling outdoor adventure, journey with caution as you never know what may be lurking nearby. As night falls, gather around a campfire and share eerie legends that will give you goosebumps. Venture into the unknown carefully, and get ready to experience a spine-tingling thrill.
Mandy Applegate is the creator behind Splash of Taste and three other high-profile food blogs. She’s also co-founder of Food Drink Life Inc., the unique and highly rewarding collaborative blogger project. Her articles frequently appear on major online news sites, and she always has her eyes open to spot the next big trend.