9 Haunted Trails for Thrill-Seeking Cyclists
Are you ready to explore the spooky side of biking? For those who love the thrill of ghost stories and the open road, the USA has some fantastic haunted trails that are perfect for a fun, spine-tingling cycling adventure. These bike-friendly routes are filled with local legends, eerie sightings, and mysterious histories—perfect for adding a little extra excitement to your ride. Whether you're seeking a haunted experience or just want to enjoy some beautiful scenery with a playful touch of mystery, these trails have it all.
Table of Contents
- Ghost Town Trail – Pennsylvania
- Silver Comet Trail – Georgia
- W&OD Trail – Virginia
- Clinton Road – New Jersey
- Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail – New York
- Great Allegheny Passage – Maryland & Pennsylvania
- Swamp Rabbit Trail – South Carolina
- Katy Trail – Missouri
- C&O Canal Towpath – Maryland
1. Ghost Town Trail – Pennsylvania
Location: Cambria and Indiana counties
Length: 36 miles
Legend: This rail-trail winds through abandoned ghost towns, including the remnants of Wehrum, a once-thriving coal mining community established in the early 1900s. Locals say that on a quiet night, you can hear the distant echoes of miners' laughter and the clang of tools, as if the spirits are still hard at work. Some cyclists have even claimed to see shadowy figures in old-fashioned clothing standing by the trail, only to vanish when approached—as if the ghosts are guarding their forgotten town.
Highlights: Historic ruins, scenic river views, and the remains of eerie, long-abandoned towns make this trail a favorite for those seeking a haunted adventure on two wheels..
2. Silver Comet Trail – Georgia
Location: Starts near Atlanta and runs into Alabama
Length: 61.5 miles
Legend: The Paulding Forest section of the Silver Comet Trail has a reputation for strange occurrences since the 1960s, when the old rail line was abandoned. Some riders say that as dusk falls, the shadows seem to move on their own, and the air becomes heavy with an eerie silence. There are tales of a mysterious woman in white who appears on the bridge near the abandoned train trestles, her figure shimmering before fading into the mist. Many who have seen her claim they felt an intense chill—as if she was trying to communicate, or perhaps warn them.
Highlights: Enjoy peaceful woodland views, bridges, and railroad tunnels, all with a hint of mystery.
3. W&OD Trail – Virginia
Location: Northern Virginia
Length: 45 miles
Legend: Following an old train line that ceased operation in 1968, the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park Trail is said to be haunted by ghostly lights and phantom train whistles. Cyclists have reported seeing spectral lights approaching them, only to have the lights vanish into thin air. Some claim to hear the distant chugging of a train and the whistle blowing, even though the tracks have been gone for decades. It's as if the ghost train still runs its nightly route, carrying passengers who never left.
Highlights: This scenic route takes cyclists through quaint small towns, beautiful countryside, and historic sites—perfect for those wanting a touch of haunted history.
Subheading
4. Clinton Road – New Jersey
Location: Passaic County
Length: 10 miles
Legend: Clinton Road is infamous for its ghost stories—phantom trucks that chase unsuspecting cyclists, ghostly children who appear at the bridge, and strange animals lurking in the woods. One of the most chilling tales, dating back to the 1970s, is about a ghostly boy who supposedly throws coins back to anyone who drops one into the water below the bridge. Riders have reported hearing laughter and splashing, only to look down and see no one there. The abandoned Cross Castle nearby is also said to be a hotbed of paranormal activity, with rumors of dark rituals and shadowy figures seen at its ruins.
Highlights: Dense forests and secluded paths make this an unsettling, but beautiful, ride..
5. Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail – New York
Location: Albany to Schenectady
Length: 36 miles
Legend: Running near the historic Erie Canal, which was constructed in the early 1800s, this trail is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of workers who died during the canal's construction. Cyclists often hear the faint sound of footsteps crunching on gravel, even when no one is there. There are also stories of ghostly figures seen walking along the canal at twilight, their faces pale and eyes hollow. Some riders have felt an inexplicable tug on their bikes, as if an unseen hand was trying to pull them back—perhaps a warning from those who toiled and perished along the canal..
Highlights: Scenic views of the Hudson River, charming small towns, and eerie canal-side paths.
6. Great Allegheny Passage – Maryland & Pennsylvania
Location: Cumberland, MD to Pittsburgh, PA
Length: 150 miles
Legend: The historic Borden Tunnel, built in the early 1900s, is the site of numerous ghost stories. Riders have described entering the tunnel and feeling an intense drop in temperature, followed by the echoing sounds of voices and footsteps that aren't their own. Legend has it that the spirits of laborers who died in accidents during the tunnel's construction still linger, trying to find their way out. Some have even seen shadowy figures at the tunnel's entrance, disappearing as they get closer..
Highlights: Breathtaking mountain views, historic tunnels, and long, shaded paths make this a favorite—for both adventure seekers and ghost hunters.
7. Swamp Rabbit Trail – South Carolina
Location: Greenville County
Length: 22 miles
Legend: This trail runs through wooded areas that are said to be haunted by mysterious spirits dating back to the late 1800s, when the rail lines were first established. Riders have reported strange whispers that seem to come from nowhere, and the feeling of being followed by invisible eyes. There are stories of a ghostly figure that appears near the old railroad tracks, dressed in old-fashioned clothing and vanishing as quickly as it appears. Some say it's the spirit of a railroad worker who never left his post, still patrolling the tracks long after they were abandoned..
Highlights: This trail offers scenic parks, river views, and the perfect atmosphere for an eerie ride.
8. Katy Trail – Missouri
Location: Spans most of Missouri
Length: 240 miles
Legend: Built on old railroad tracks from the late 1800s, the Katy Trail is full of ghost stories, especially near the old depots and abandoned towns. Cyclists have reported seeing shadowy figures standing by the tracks at dusk, their outlines barely visible in the fading light. There are tales of an old stationmaster who still watches over the depot, his lantern glowing faintly as he keeps vigil. The whispers of long-forgotten travelers seem to linger in the air, making every ride a step back in time—and into the unknown..
Highlights: Ride along rivers, explore small historic towns, and pass by haunted train depots.
9. C&O Canal Towpath – Maryland
Location: Follows the Potomac River from Georgetown, D.C. to Cumberland, MD
Length: 184.5 miles
Legend: Ghost stories on this trail revolve around canal workers who died during its construction, which began in the 1820s. Cyclists have claimed to hear the clip-clop of mule hooves and the creak of phantom canal boats moving through the water, even when the canal is empty. Some say they've seen the ghostly figure of a boatman, his lantern swinging as he walks the towpath at night. The air grows thick with the scent of old river water, and sometimes, just sometimes, you might hear the faint echoes of songs sung by workers long gone..
Highlights: Scenic riverside views, canal locks, and historic tunnels make this a beautiful ride with a touch of the supernatural.
Ride These Trails If You Dare!
Cycling through haunted trails isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s a thrilling way to add excitement to your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re intrigued by the haunted legends or just want a unique ride through scenic landscapes, these trails offer a memorable experience for cyclists of all kinds.
Remember, riding at dawn or dusk can make the experience even more thrilling. Just be sure to bring a friend and lights — or at least tell someone where you’re going. After all, you never know what (or who!) you might encounter along these haunted paths..