kingston pen haunted tour

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Available May 20 – October 9, 2023. Visit kpass.ca for included attractions and pricing.

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Bellevue house, pumphouse museum, kingston 1000 islands cruises, kingston trolley tours, ghost & mystery trolley.

• Trolley Tours
• Ghost & Mystery

Peer into Kingston's Past

Take a tour through Kingston’s mysterious past on the Ghost and Mystery Trolley. This 90-min evening tour takes you off the beaten path to notable sites and notorious neighbourhoods that played a ghostly role in Kingston’s early history.

The Ghost & Mystery Tour

Tour past Kingston’s spookiest sites and neighbourhoods:

• Downtown Kingston • Fort Henry Hill • The Rockwood Asylum • Kingston Penitentiary

Kingston is one of the oldest cities in Ontario, and has amassed an impressive list of hauntings and mysterious stories:  The horrors of Kingston Penitentiary, child deaths at Bellevue House, the fair maiden ghost of Cedar Island. What happened when graves were robbed in Skeleton Park? Why can one stumble upon them today? Find out for yourself.

This experience is best suited for guests 13+ due to the graphic/sensitive nature of the content discussed on board. Due to limited aisle space, please note that strollers will not be permitted, unless the unit is lightweight and fully collapsible.

Tour Highlights

Depart from Downtown Kingston Your tour begins at the Kingston Visitor Information Centre, centrally located at 209 Ontario St.

Rockwood Asylum Opened in 1878 and surviving until 2000 under various names, this building hides a century of dark and unanswered history.

Explore More on a 1000 Islands Cruise

After learning about Kingston, set sail for the world-famous 1000 Islands! Save when you bundle a cruise and trolley tour together.

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• Call: 1-800-848-0011

One Pass, One Price, All of Kingston

Available May 17 – October 14, 2024. Visit kpass.ca for included attractions and pricing.

Copyright 2024 Kingston Destination Group

K-Pass is Back for 2024!

Bellevue house, the pumphouse, 1000 islands cruises, kingston trolley tours, ghost and mystery cruise.

• Sightseeing Cruises

Sail Kingston’s harbour after dark! This 90-minute ghost cruise showcases downtown Kingston in a different light, examining the mysterious tales that surround our historic city . Join us aboard, if you dare.

Sail the Harbour After Dark

Journey through stories of death, murder, wreckage, and mystery… tales of the infamous Kingston Penitentiary, child deaths at Bellevue House, the fair maiden ghost of Cedar Island, and the Marysburgh Vortex… why do so many ships disappear nearby?

We depart from Crawford Wharf with a flood light at our lead; approaching the historic sites of Fort Henry, Rockwood Asylum and Kingston’s Penitentiary from the water’s edge. Things are a whole lot spookier at night!

S ee  Frequently Asked Questions for information on parking, boarding, reservations and cancellations. All tickets are non-refundable. Changes to your reservation can be made with 24h advanced notice.

2024 Schedule: August 9, September 27, October 11

The Island Queen Awaits

Sail Kingston’s waterfront, after dark, on a 1.5 hour ghostly sightseeing cruise.

Behold hair-raising s tories of death, murder, wreckage, and mystery.

A full-service bar and canteen is available on board with snacks, beer and cocktails available for purchase.

Add a Trolley Tour

Hop on the Kingston Trolley to explore more of Kingston. Enjoy a live-guided tour through downtown highlighting National Historic Sites and visitor attractions like Fort Henry, Queen's University and Kingston Penitentiary.

Ghost & Mystery Cruise

Reserve online.

Take a Tour

Standard tour.

Type: Guided | Duration: 1.5 hours

Step inside the walls of Canada’s oldest penitentiary and explore the living and working areas, some dating back to the 1830s. Hear the personalized accounts from former staff and learn about the history and the daily routines, including stories of escapes, riots and everything in between on this guided tour. Available in French as well.

This tour contains subject matter designed for a mature audience -  parental discretion is advised.

Extended Tour

Type: Guided | Duration:  2.5 hours

This tour covers the Standard Tour content as well as a more in-depth look behind the walls exploring the history of Kingston Penitentiary and Regional Treatment Centre. Discover more of the site and hear about the history of additional areas, such as the hospital, gymnasium, and school. With smaller group sizes the Extended Tour provides a greater opportunity to connect with retired corrections staff and tour guides.

This tour contains subject matter designed for a mature audience - parental discretion is advised.

Express Tour

Type: Guided | Duration: 45 minutes

This fully accessible guided tour offers an introductory experience of Kingston Penitentiary. Guests will have the opportunity to visit many of the highlights of the institution, including the North Gate, a cell range, the canteen and social services area to hear about the 1971 riot, and more.

This tour contains subject matter designed for a mature audience - parental discretion is advised.

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Historical & haunted: Kingston’s spooky attractions

By abbey mccauley.

During the fall season in Kingston, you will find ghostly adventures, glowing pumpkins, and so much more. On its surface, Kingston is a charming and historic city, but as you dig a little deeper, you’ll uncover spooky neighborhoods, a vacant asylum, and a frightening military fort. Read on to discover how you can experience Kingston’s spooky side.  

Legend: 🎃 (family-friendly), 👻 (mature audience)   

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kingston Penitentiary Tours (@kingstonpentour)

Pumpkinferno 🎃  

Kingston Penitentiary, 560 King St W  

Pumpkinferno ascends on one of Kingston’s historic landmarks, the Kingston Penitentiary, from September 27 to October 30. Captivating exhibits made up of 7,000 illuminated artificial pumpkins will line a path throughout the limestone penitentiary under the night sky. Prepare to be mesmerized by an enchanting world of glowing pumpkins!

Read: Two historic Kingston landmarks transform for Halloween to learn more about Pumpkinferno.

Reserve your ticket on Kingston Pen Tours’ website or at the Visitor Information Centre , 209 Ontario Street (open daily 9:30 am – 6:30 pm) .

Explore spooky Kingston this fall with an overnight package . Pumpkinferno packages are available. View packages.

Open: September 27 to October 30

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kingston Trolley Tours (@kingstontrolley)

Ghost and Mystery Trolley Tour 👻  

Visitor Information Centre, 209 Ontario St  

Kingston’s well-known red trolley is normally reserved for tours to the city’s most famous landmarks, but as the sun sets it veers off course to several of Kingston’s sites that have haunted stories. At one stop, you’ll peer across Cedar Island and perhaps see the fair maiden ghost. You’ll also get to see the vacant Rockwood Asylum, rumored to be haunted by ghosts of its deceased patients and doctors.

Read: Explore Kingston’s spookiest ghosts and mysteries to learn more about the ghost trolleys and cruises.

Visit Kingston Trolley Tours’ website or the Visitor Information Centre , 209 Ontario Street (open daily 9:30 am – 6:30 pm) to book your tour.  

Tours are available daily at 6:30 pm until October 27 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Fort Henry (@forthenry1832)

Fort Fright 👻  

Fort Henry, 1 Fort Henry Dr    

Are you brave enough to step foot in a haunted garrison after dark? Fort Fright returns to Fort Henry. Step into the shadows for an electrifying experience as darkness descends upon Fort Henry once again, transforming this historic site into a nightmarish realm of creatures and monsters. For those who aren’t afraid of the dark, Dark Nights takes over on Thursdays, October 10, 17, 24, and 31, plunging Fort Fright into near complete darkness.

Read: Two historic Kingston landmarks transform for Halloween to learn more about Fort Fright.

For dates and ticket information, visit Fort Henry’s website or the Visitor Information Centre , 209 Ontario Street (open daily 9:30 am – 6:30 pm) .   

Explore spooky Kingston this fall with an overnight package . Fort Fright packages are available. View packages.

Open: September 27 to October 31

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises (@1000islandscruises)

Ghost and Mystery Cruise 👻  

Crawford Wharf, 1 Brock St    

Cruise Kingston’s shoreline and waters after dark on the Island Queen to learn about the mysteries of the city, which include hair-raising stories of death, murder, wreckage, and mystery. After departing from Crawford Wharf, the 90-minute cruise will approach historic sites such as Fort Henry, Rockwood Asylum, and Kingston Penitentiary, sharing unsettling stories.

Reserve your tickets by visiting Kingston 1000 Island Cruises or the Visitor Information Centre , 209 Ontario Street (open daily 9:30 am – 6:30 pm) .   

Cruise dates: September 27 & October 11, 8 pm

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ESCAPETHEROOMers (@escapetheroomers)

The Haunted Walk 🎃👻

200 Ontario St

The Haunted Walk offers a series of creepy, shocking, and downright surprising tales of Kingston’s dark past. The Original Haunted Walk of Kingston will take you through the city’s historic downtown neighbourhood, Sydenham Ward, where you’ll hear stories of haunted hotels, grave robbings, and more.

The Ghosts of Queen’s University tour explores the 180+ year-old campus located a short walk from downtown. Under the cover of night, your guide will recount tales of heists, mysteries, and connections beyond the grave.

Looking for lighter fare? The new Hidden Kingston Tour is a light-hearted daytime tour of Kingston’s bizarre and unexpected side. You’ll hear stories of mystery, mayhem, and strange happenings.

See the Haunted Walk website to book. Read: Spirit city: exploring spooky Kingston with the Haunted Walk to learn more.

Original Haunted Walk available daily. Ghost of Queen’s University available Fridays & Saturdays. Hidden Kingston Tour offered Saturdays & Sundays.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Haunted Walk (@hauntedwalk)

Improbable Escapes 🎃👻  

303 Bagot St   & 500 Gardiners Rd

Improbable Escapes has several different escape rooms at their two locations (downtown and west end), but three in particular are perfect for the Halloween season.

In “Coroner’s Report” (at their downtown location) you’ll be locked inside the abandoned Ambrosia General Hospital, which was shut down years ago because doctors were performing strange experiments and dissections on patients. In “The Cure for the Common Zombie,” (also located downtown) a nuclear accident has created a mutated strain of the common cold that has unleashed an undead epidemic. But there are rumours of a cure, and your team’s goal is to find it before the zombies eat your brains.

At their west end location, Wonderland, the family-friendly “The Mysterious Miseries of Franklin M. Stein,” is a story-driven, high-tech game of puzzles offering a twist on the classic tale. The west end location also includes a charming Alice in Wonderland inspired cafe and extensive board games shop.

Check out Improbable Escapes’ website to book your escape room.   

Both locations are open daily. See website for hours.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Fruition Berry farm (@fruitionberry)

Fruition Berry Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Picking 🎃  

3208 Hughes Rd    

Partake in a family-friendly Halloween adventure at Kingston’s Fruition Berry Farm! Pick out the perfect pumpkin at the pumpkin patch, ride a tractor, and adventure through the sprawling corn maze. This year’s theme is CORNnections, a one-of-a-kind puzzle experience woven into the maze.

Open: Saturdays and Sundays 10 am – 4 pm September 14 to October 27

Spooky sights in South Eastern Ontario

Looking to scare up more thrills?

Check out these spine-tingling options in South Eastern Ontario: Get goosebumps in South Eastern Ontario & 16 paranormal locations we dare you to visit .

A fall day in the apple orchard: Visit Waddell Apples in Kingston

Uncategorized, gruesome executions and terrifying ghost stories of kingston’s 19th-century military fort, cheap eats in kingston: 15 meals under $15.

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209 Ontario Street Kingston, Ontario K7L 2Z1

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Kingston Penitentiary

Kingston Penitentiary has a ghostly prisoner, George Hewell, who was, in life, a handful for the guards. He was known for attacking guards and other inmates, and in one incidence in 1897, a guard was forced to kill Hewell in self defence. Hewell swore as he lay dying that he would avenge himself. Since then, the ghost of Hewell has been seen here many times. The place has been featured on “Creepy Canada.”

If you've had a paranormal experience here, or have any additional information about this location, please let us know!

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What do you think? Is this place really haunted? Voice your opinion here! Click "thumbs up" if you think its haunted, or "thumbs down" if you think its all just a tall tale.

Geographic Information

Please note: It is your responsibility to acquire appropriate permissions before investigating any location listed on this site. Private property should be respected at all times, as should all posted signs concerning trespassing, hours of operation and other local regulations. Many "ghost hunters" have been arrested because they failed to contact property owners and/or local authorities ahead of time.

Share Your Experiences

Comment (1).

My fiancé and I went in October 2017 to the Kingston Pen tour! I was aware that it was haunted but my main focus to be there was purely history so even entering the place I didn’t think to myself ‘I hope I see some ghosts’ that thought never crossed my mind. We went to the first room of the tour, the room was for the inmates to see their familie, there were old paintings on the wall and a display case of old artifacts and such. In this room while the guide was speaking I started having the hardest time breathing, there was an insane amount of pressure on my chest. I didn’t think ‘oh it’s a ghost’ but I was so confused and thinking something was wrong with me medically. Once we left that room and the feeling went away did I think ‘okay that was weird’ and I decided then that it was something paranormal. I did get that feeling again, although I don’t remember exactly where, it was either in the circular room/hallway where you can see all the cells, or in some jail cells. But yes that’s my only experience.

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Disclaimer: The stories posted here are user-submitted and are, in the nature of "ghost stories," largely unverifiable. HauntedPlaces.org makes no claims that any of the statements posted here are factually accurate. The vast majority of information provided on this web site is anecdotal, and as such, should be viewed in the same light as local folklore and urban legends.

Clermont County Hauntings & Legends

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On this page you will find haunted locations and legends of Clermont County. Many of these are genuine and documented haunts, but others may be legend or hearsay. Remember, we do not condone trespassing. Always seek permission before entering private property. If you know of a haunting or legend not listed for this county, please submit them through our Haunting Submission Form .

Dead Man’s Curve – This was a dangerous turning intersection where many people had lost their lives. It was once part of the Ohio Turnpike, built in 1831, until the state rebuilt the road into a straight four-lane road in 1969. In October of that year, five teens were killed when their 1968 Impala was hit by a 1969 Roadrunner going more than 100 miles-per-hour. Only one guy named Rick survived. Since that day, the intersection has been haunted by a faceless hitchhiker, who Rick has personally seen at least five times. The ghost is described as a three dimensional shadowy figure. Psychics with no knowledge of the site have described it as very evil. A driverless Impala and a ghostly green Roadrunner have been seen in the area as well.

Dunham House – In the early 1800s, angry Indians raided the house and killed the Tracy family’s little daughter. The house is now supposedly haunted.

East Ohio Pike Home – A residence on East Ohio Pick is the site of many strange happenings. At least five residents have moved out of the home due to the activity. Objects move on their own, furniture in the home vibrates and pictures mysteriously float off the wall.

East Fork Cemetery – There have been reports of sudden smells of perfume followed by the smell of garlic in the cemetery. The source of the smell cannot be found. This location is also known as Old Bethel Cemetery. Related: Contribution

Lucy Run Cemetery Road – A girl went out on horseback in search for her lover one rainy night. It rained so much that the river began to flood the street. The horse slipped in the water and the girl was thrown from her horse into the river where she drowned. Her ghost has been seen walking along the street still in search of her lover. On a full moon, her ghost is said to be seen wearing a white wedding dress and veil. She was buried in the cemetery on the hill above the street. If one walks in the cemetery and finds her tombstone, you can see her face peeking around the grave.  (Credits: Robin Carson)

Clermont County Infirmary – The infirmary had served as a mental hospital, nursing home, poorhouse, and an orphan nursery for many years. It was built in 1833 and was demolished in 2001. When it was still standing, ghostly figures were often sighted in the windows and lights flickered, even when there was no electricity in the building. The haunting seemed particularly active during the years the building stood abandoned. Many of those who died at the infirmary are buried in a nearby field.

Clermont County Women’s Jail – A wing of the jail was built atop the field where those who died in the county’s infirmary were often laid to rest. The jail is said to be haunted by those whose graves were not relocated during the construction of the wing.

Hell’s Church – Located near State Route 32 in Batavia are the remains of a church that burned to the ground over 20 years ago. It stood painted red with stained glass windows. Lightning struck the church during a blood ritual on All Hallows Eve one night. Strange things, such as floating orbs, ghastly screams and phantom vehicles have all been reported there. It is said that grass will not grow on the spot where the altar was located.

Tealtown Road – Two ghostly figures can be seen in the woods near this road arguing, followed by the sound of gunshots. It is believed these ghosts belong to two friends who died there one afternoon in a murder-suicide.

Marret Road – The road is home to a devil worshiping cult during the night. It has been said they sacrifice goats there often and rumored that they have even held human sacrifices.

Smyrna Cemetery – This cemetery is haunted by an old Shawnee sorceress who was killed by her tribe after they found her to be betraying them. The second line of her tombstone reads “Beware of her.” A ghostly dog appeared in a photograph taken at the grave.  (Credits: JJ Damron)

Peaceful Valley – A cult is said to be the source of many problems in the area. When in the valley late at night, cult members will chase you away, driving a pick-up truck with the high beams on. While most of the time the truck only chases explorers away, there have been reports of the cult making physical contact to those who drive slowly or stop their vehicle.

Loveland Castle – The castle in Loveland is said to be haunted by a king and paige who are attached to a throne that was imported there. The builder of the castle, a man named Harry, also haunts the place. He reportedly died when the leaves he was burning set him on fire.

Stucco Mansion – A family who lived in this home would hear mysterious voices and lights turned on when no one else was around. A boy who slept in an attic bedroom would knock and would hear knocking back. Some days when a family member was home alone, they would see figures and strange shadows.

 Miamiville 

The Ghostly Trainman – The ghost of a trainman who was killed by Morgan’s Raiders has been seen on both the railroad tracks and on the road. The ghost sometimes watches a farmer plow his field.

Promont – Employees report hearing ghostly footsteps coming down the stairs and walking across the upstairs floors. One employee even reported that someone had grabbed her ankle but no one admitted to doing it. The mansion was also home to former Ohio Governor John M. Pattison. He died of pneumonia only five months after he took office. At least three people have died at Promont, including Henry Hodges, who was a famous millionaire tobacco farmer.

Stonelick Covered Bridge – Legend says if you go inside this circa 1878 covered bridge, turn off your car and flash your headlights three times, you can see a man hanging from a tree through the window of the bridge. Your car will not start again until he disappears. There is also said to be a church nearby and if you’re caught being near it, a black pickup truck will chase you down the road. Remember, as with all places on private property, always seek permission and anyone found trespassing may be subject to arrest.

Spate House – This two-story brick mansion was built along the Ohio River between 1796 and 1798. It housed many famous people, including the King of France Louis Philippe and the first tourist in America, Marquis de Lafayette. However, none of these famous people haunted the place. The mansion was haunted by a dog that was killed over a card game dispute. The dog was thrown into the Ohio River in a canvas bag and drowned. The house was full of cold spots and bad vibes. An occasional whining and barking of a dog could be heard coming from within the walls.  UPDATE 2012: Sadly, the Spate House was destroyed by an EF3 tornado that devastated the entire town of Moscow on March 2, 2012.

 New Richmond 

New Richmond High School – The auditorium of the high school is said to be haunted by a former student. In the 1970s, a young man committed suicide by driving his car into the Ohio River. Strange noises, including footsteps, have been heard coming from the theater’s catwalk, and the air ducts near the ceiling often rattle for no apparent reason. Members of the NRHS drama club report that the ghost is friendly and they affectionately refer to him as Fred.

Pond Run Road – It is said that the parents of a mentally disturbed kid chained him up in their basement. Lightning struck the house during a storm and the bodies of both parents were found. All that was found of the boy was his hand. Now wearing a hook for a hand, the boy has haunted the road for many years, wreaking havoc on all who stop there.

 Owensville 

South Broadway Sally – The name Sally Evans mysteriously appeared written in chalk in the attic of the home. Some time later, a resident of the home saw the apparition of a beautiful woman wearing a pale green dress at the bottom of the staircase. The apparition was there for only a few seconds before dissipating. Not everything was as harmless, however. One time the medicine cabinet mirror shattered from the inside out for no apparent reason. Shards of glass cut the witness’s toe, but strangely enough, there was no cut on her toe the next day. Related: Contribution   (Credits: Susan Stone)

Village Hall – Built in 1859 as a church, the Morgan’s Raiders met some resistance there from an old man with a shotgun on July 14, 1863. Nellie is the name of the ghost who haunts the hall. He is said to clean the building, move furniture and turn up in photographs.

 Point Pleasant 

Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace – The birthplace of the eighteenth President of the United States is haunted by an unseen ghost who causes the spinning wheel to turn when no one else is around.

Spiritualists Ghosts – The ghosts of a spiritualist group that was killed in the 1847 flood is said to haunt the banks of the Ohio River. During a dance party in December of that year, the building they were dancing in collapsed and sent many of the people there into the icy waters of the Ohio River. Many drowned or succumbed to the cold. Residents of the tiny town have reported seeing ghostly figures walking out of the water. Strange lights have also been reported along the riverbank and in the river itself.

 Williamsburg 

Williamsburg High School – The school is reportedly haunted by multiple ghosts. The county’s last hanging tree was located where the library now stands. Three students have supposedly jumped to their deaths from the third floor window, a teacher shot herself on the third floor, and a janitor hanged himself in a third floor closet. Strange lights have been seen moving from room to room during the night.

There’s A Secret Network Of Haunted Tunnels Hiding Underneath This Idaho Town

Lewiston, Idaho, offers a unique historic ghost tour that explores its haunted past and underground tunnels.

Written by  

Did you know that Boise wasn't always the capital city of Idaho? When Idaho was just a territory, the town of Lewiston served as the capital. Today it's a bustling little city of approximately 30,000 people but reminders of the Wild West town it once was can still be found. Some say that even the spirits of Lewiston's very first townspeople still linger in certain parts of the city. Spend an evening learning all about Idaho's first capital when you partake in this one-of-a-kind historic ghost tour. On this tour you'll be led through some of the oldest structures in the city and you'll even get a glimpse at the little-known underground network of haunted tunnels that can be found just underneath the sidewalks!

It's not so suprising to learn that Lewiston is one of the most haunted cities in Idaho when you consider that the town was born out of the Wild West. Back in the beginning, lawlessness was rampant and the town was filled with secret brothels and hidden gambling caverns. Oh, and there was even a secret network of underground tunnels!

It's rumored that many of these spots are haunted and you can see them for yourself when you go on the ghost tour provided by Idaho History Tours. The tour is led by a history buff named Garry Bush and along the way he'll show you a side of Lewiston you never even knew existed.

One of the most notable spots along the tour is the famous Lewis Clark Hotel. It was first opened to the public in 1922 and rumor has it that some guests never actually left. The once bustling hotel is now a beautiful antique, but there's something eerie about this place that you can't put your finger on.

At the beginning of the tour, Bush will provide a detailed history of Lewiston's rough-and-tumble early days. You'll then be led around the historic section of town, entering century-old buildings and exploring places you never even knew about before.

The stop at Morgan's Alley is one of the most memorable. Today it is an event venue but back in the day it was home to a lively saloon and gentleman's club. It's believed to be haunted by the Lady in Blue who appears as both mysterious orbs of blue light and a full body apparition.

At first, it was believed that the Lady in Blue was a "lady of the night" who worked at the brothel. At one point, Bush had a medium investigate and it was discovered that she was actually an extremely religious woman who tried to get the gentleman's club shut down permanently.

Even if you don't believe in ghosts, there's something thrilling about exploring some of the oldest structures in Idaho. Especially the secret network of underground tunnels underneath the city.

It may sound ridiculous, but it's true. It's unclear exactly why these century-old tunnels were constructed in the first place. One theory is that they were used by "invisible people" (notably the Chinese and Black population) to get from one building to another since they were not allowed through the front doors. Many of the tunnels have been filled in, but a few can still be entered to this day.

Whether or not you consider yourself a history buff or a paranormal enthusiast, you're bound to become enthralled with this ghost tour. This historic town has a lot of stories hiding within it and you'll want to hear them all. For more information about Idaho History Tours, you can visit their website here .

Did you know there was a secret network of haunted tunnels hiding beneath Lewiston? Check out our list of the 8 Best Places To Spot A Ghost In Idaho for even more haunted spots that are sure to give you the spooks.

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This Abandoned Town In Idaho Is One Of The Eeriest Places In America

Custer is a well-preserved ghost town in Idaho known for its eerie atmosphere and historical significance.

Idaho is no stranger to haunted places, spooky legends, and fascinating ghost towns. In fact, we have created road trips that take you to many haunted and creepy destinations in the Gem State. But there is one well-known ghost town in Idaho that is more than just an abandoned town — it is also one of the eeriest places in Idaho … or even America! With an interesting history, abandoned buildings, and proximity to other creepy abandoned towns, Custer, Idaho is more than just a reminder of days gone by. Read on as we tell you all about it.

Welcome to Custer! This is one of the more well-known ghost towns in Idaho. You’ll find this abandoned town in the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

Custer is actually part of the Land of Yankee Fork State Park, near the small town of Challis.

Custer began as a mining town in the late 1870s. It was founded by gold speculators, and many people who lived in the town worked out of the Lucky Boy and Black Mines.

This mining town hit its peak in 1896, and approximately 600 people called this town home. However, in just over a decade, the town's population began to dwindle. It became a ghost town by 1910.

In 1981, the entire town was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and is now a part of Yankee Fork State Park.

Today as you explore, you’ll find an incredible number of abandoned structures that are still standing. Because this ghost town is part of a state park, many of the structures are well preserved, giving you a better glimpse into years gone by.

You can check out multiple cabins, a saloon, and even a schoolhouse ...

... you will even see old mining equipment tucked away in the trees and along the paths.

Many people claim this is the spookiest and creepiest state park in Idaho. Not only is Custer found within its borders, but two other ghost towns are here as well – Bonanza and Bayhorse.

While there are all types of stories about Custer and the other nearby ghost towns, as you walk around this state park, we recommend you keep your eyes open! While there is no single spirit that tends to roam this town, you never know what unexplained things you may see, hear, or feel during your visit!

Whew! What a fascinating story, to say the least! It really is a big part of Custer, Idaho history, in addition to that of the rest of the state.  So we hope that you really enjoyed it!

Have you been to the abandoned town of Custer? What about the other Idaho ghost towns? Are you aware of any other abandoned places in Idaho? Let us know in the comments! And, if you want to learn more about a really cool State Park, check out our feature article, Home To Three Different Ghost Towns, You'll Need An Entire Day To Explore This Idaho State Park.

If you’d like to explore some really great hikes in and around the area, you can find information and photos about trails to embark upon by going to the AllTrails  website.

This Idaho High School Is Among The Most Haunted Places In The Nation

Pocatello High School in Idaho is considered one of the most haunted high schools in the nation, with numerous reports and video evidence of paranormal activity.

Located in southeastern Idaho, Pocatello is one of the most historic cities in the Gem State. The area was first developed by fur trappers in the early 19th century and continued to see massive growth during the Gold Rush of the 1860s. It's fair to say that Pocatello has an unbelievably rich history. In fact, the town's extensive history may play a part in the fact that it's considered one of the most haunted places in Idaho . However, one of the creepiest locations in this southeastern city is Pocatello High School. Thanks to video footage and various report, Pocatello High School is considered one of the most haunted high schools in Idaho and maybe even the entire country.

Pocatello is full of supposedly haunted places that are worth checking out if you're a paranormal enthusiast. However, Pocatello High School may just be the most haunted. In fact, some would say it's one of the most haunted places in the nation and there's a video to prove it.

Back in 2014, security footage from Pocatello High School went viral. The footage was taken during the school's winter break when not a soul was supposed to be in the building. However, the video shows a mysterious shadowy figure that walks in and out of the bathroom and then down the hallway. Meanwhile, the hallway's lights flicker on and off.

The figure is definitely not a person ... but it moves like a person. The video caused a lot of excitement among ghost hunters and some news stations even picked up on the story. If you scour the internet, you'll find that a lot of people deem the video as some of the best "ghost footage" ever captured.

The reason so many people believe the figure in the video is actually a ghost is because Pocatello High School, for quite some time, has had a reputation for being haunted.

Both faculty and students agree that there's something off about the building. Toilets randomly flush, doors mysteriously close, and some have reported either seeing or feeling the presence of an apparition. But what exactly is haunting the school? Pocatello High School was originally constructed in 1892. In 1914, the school burned to the ground and had to be reconstructed. It's safe to say that many of the school's structures boast a long history and they make for the perfect setting for a ghost story.

Many people believe that the school's ghost is the spirit of a girl who killed herself in the school sometime between 1930 and 1950. It's believed that the girl made a suicide pact with her friend and the next day she hanged herself from her locker. However, the friend didn't go through with it.

Some say they can still smell the strong scent of the girl's favorite perfume lingering in the air at random times. Others have even reported seeing an apparition of a young girl wandering the hallways. Although the story of the girl hasn't been confirmed, there have been at least six confirmed deaths at Pocatello High School.

Pocatello High School may very well just be one of the most haunted places in the nation and is likely the most haunted high school in Idaho. After all, it has the stories and video footage to prove it!

Be sure to take a look at the YouTube video below and decide for yourself whether or not there's something paranormal in this security footage.

haunted places near me

Did you know about the haunted history of Pocatello High School? Were you aware of the Pocatello High School deaths? It's no wonder this school is considered one of the most haunted places in Idaho.

What is one of your favorite haunted places in Idaho to visit? Do you believe Pocatello High School is haunted? Tell us all about it! Share with us your experiences in the comments below.

Do you want to see more creepy places in Idaho? Check out The Ultimate Terrifying Idaho Road Trip That Will Haunt Your Dreams . And, make sure you take a look at our road trip packing list and our favorite road trip snacks before you go!

Thinking about taking a vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club .

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AP Photo | Ted S. Warren

Idaho Murder House: Photos Inside the King Road Home Where 4 Students Were Killed

Updated on January 9, 2023

• 4 University of Idaho students were brutally stabbed to death in their home on Nov 13, 2022.
• 2 young women that lived on the first floor were unharmed in the attack.
• A man named Bryan Kohberger has been charged with the murders of all 4 students.
• Kohberger reportedly had made at least 12 trips to the home’s location going back to Aug 2022.
• A survivor of the night stated that she saw the killer fleeing the scene of the murder.

The night of November 13, 2022 seemed like every other night in the college town of Moscow, Idaho – College parties, drinking, and making memories. As the night came to a close, however, and many students were retiring to their sorority houses and shared rentals to sleep off their night of partying, no one could have imagined that a predator was lurking in their college community with one goal in mind – to take life. Tragically, this monster would succeed in his endeavor when he found his way into the home of Kaylee Goncalves (21), Madison Mogen (21), and Xana Kernodle (20). He would not only take the lives of these three women, but also Mogen’s boyfriend, Ethan Chapin (20), who was spending the night. Below, we will explore photos of the simple Idaho residence that became the scene one of Moscow, ID’s most horrific crimes and learn more about the victims and who they were before their lives were so unjustly taken. Continue reading for an in-depth look at the Moscow Idaho university murders and more.

Where Did Moscow Idaho Quadruple Homicide Take Place?

The quadruple murder of Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin and Madison Mogen occurred at this 6 bedroom, 2,175 square foot home at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho.

In these rare photos, we see the 1122 King Road home prior to the horrific events that occurred on Nov 13. Upon entering the front door, you’re instantly greeted with the first downstairs bedroom on the right. The bathroom, utility room, and second bedroom are all located in the hallway on the left.

These two downstairs bedrooms were likely where survivors, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funk, were sleeping when the crimes occurred.

Going upstairs to the second floor, you’ll find the living room. As cheerful and trendy as it is here with the “Good Vibes” sign, colorful artwork, and comfortable couch, it’s hard to believe something so terrible would eventually take place here.

The second floor was where the bodies of both Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle were discovered.

Down both the left and right hallways off the living room are where the second floor bedrooms are located. One of these rooms belonged to Xana, while the other was likely a vacant space.

Just outside one of the second floor bedrooms is the kitchen and another flight of stairs leading to the third floor.

The kitchen features a sliding glass door that leads out onto the backyard patio. Some have questioned whether this is where the assailant entered the home, though this is strictly hearsay. Police have stated that there was no sign of forced entry into the property.

Upon climbing the second floor stairs, you’ll find the third floor landing as well as a bathroom and two bedrooms.

The third floor plays host to both a standard sized room and master suite that opens onto a balcony. This is where Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves were located by authorities. Both were said to be sharing Mogen’s bedroom, possibly the master suite, at the time of their murder.

In the backyard, we see the home’s small patio on the ground floor and balcony on the floor above it. The property was due to undergo an extensive clean-up by Disaster Response and handed back to the owner but cleaning plans were halted following the arrest of a prime suspect in the murders.

What Happened at the House On King Road?

November 13, 2022 started out as any other night for college students in Moscow, Idaho. Mogen and Goncalves had been hanging out at the Corner Club, Kernodle and Chapin were attending a party at Sigma Chi house, and Mortensen and Funk were also enjoying a night out at the time.

Mogen and Goncalves had stopped in Downtown Moscow at a Grub truck to pick up food, as seen on the truck’s live Twitter stream (pictured far right). They would go on to take a sorority driving service back home. The women arrived home at 1:56 am.

Chapin and Kernodle had returned home as well from the sorority party at around 1:45am. The earliest to arrive home that night, however, were the two surviving women who had returned to 1122 King Road at 1:00am.

At around 4:00am, the assailant managed to gain entry to the property and proceeded to stab all 4 victims to death with a fixed-blade knife. Some speculate that the murderer could have already been hiding in the home before its residents arrived, but nothing has been confirmed.

The murders occurred between 4:00am and 4:25am that morning. Kernodle had made a DoorDash order at around 4:00am, explaining why Kernodle had defensive wounds from the attack as she was still awake.

One of the survivors of the invasion said that she had awoken at 4:00am to what she believed to be the sound of Goncalves playing with her dog in the 3rd floor bedroom. Shortly thereafter, she states that she believed she heard Goncalves say “there’s someone here,” though authorities speculate this could also have been Kernodle. Kernodle’s phone records indicate she was on the platform, TikTok, at around 4:12am.

The roommate says that she checked outside of her room but didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. She would later check again after hearing what she thought was sobbing coming from Kernodle’s room. It was at this time that she heard a man’s voice possibly saying “it’s ok, I’m going to help you.” Believing that she heard crying again, the roommate checked outside of her door and it was at this point that she saw a masked man exiting the house.

The man reportedly walked right past her door and proceeded to exit the home via the back sliding glass door. The fear and shock of the encounter led the young woman to lock herself in the room at that time.

At 11:58am on Nov 14, police received a 911 call from an unknown friend of the two surviving women stating that one of their roommates was passed out on the second floor. It had been 8 hours at this point since the murders took place.

It was upon the police’s arrival to the home that the gruesome reality of the situation was discovered.

Moscow Idaho Murder House Evidence

• While the murder weapon itself was not located at the scene, police did locate a knife sheath, on Mogen’s bed, that was brought in for DNA testing.
• Additionally, it was reported that a white 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra was spotted near the crime scene at the time of the murders. Surveillance in the area shows this vehicle drive by the residence 3 times before finally entering the area on the 4th time around.
• A shoe print, believed to be the killer’s, was also found just outside one of the surviving women’s windows on the first floor.
• At around 4:17am, a security camera located less than 50 feet from Kernodle’s bedroom picked up audio of a dog barking followed by a loud thud.

Moscow Murder Suspect Arrested: How Was Bryan Kohberger Caught?

Police traced the suspicious Hyundai Elantra back to Pullman, Washington and found it belonged to a man named Bryan Kohberger. Kohberger has been living in Pullman while attending Washington State University.

Kohberger was a Ph.D. student at WSU in the school’s department of criminal justice and criminology at the time of the slaying. His campus is less than 10 miles from the town of Moscow, Idaho. Upon looking further into Kohberger, police discovered he had just received a new license plate only 5 days after the murder.

Phone records taken from Kohberger also show that he was near the students’ home at least 12 time prior to the murder – going as far back as August, 2022. The records indicate he would generally always be in the area early in the morning or late at night.

On the night of the murders, however, Kohberger had turned off his phone between the hours of 2:47am and 4:48am – indicating he was likely trying to conceal his location. His final visit to the home, according to phone records, was between 9:12am to 9:21am on the morning of the murders.

Bryan Kohberger DNA Match

Upon testing the knife sheath found at the scene of the crime, The Idaho State Lab managed to extract a single source of male DNA located on the sheath’s button snap. Police then obtained trash from Kohberger’s family home in PA and used DNA from those contents to compare with the DNA found at the scene.

The DNA found on the sheath matched the DNA of Kohberger’s biological father – giving police all they needed to make an arrest. Bryan was taken into custody on December 30, 2022, by Pennsylvania police on 4 counts of first degree murder and burglary charges. Kohberger was later extradited to Idaho where he remains in police custody.

Remembering Moscow Idaho Students

One of the most important things to remember about this case is that these young adults were more than just names on paper. These were four ambitious people that had their whole lives ahead of them.

They were REAL people and they should be remembered for far more than just being victims of homicide. With this in mind, let’s take a look at who Kaylee, Xana, Ethan, and Madison were in life instead of only focusing on their deaths.

Kaylee Goncalves

Kaylee Goncalves (21) was majoring in general studies in the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences. When speaking of Kaylee, Goncalves sister said that she was a “fighter through and through” as well as “dedicated, outspoken, motivated, and full of life.”

Kaylee was also known by her co-workers for being incredibly kind, encouraging, and a joy to work with. Alex Paul, one of her former co-workers at Panera Bread, said that Goncalves ensured that he had a safe space while at work after coming out as gay and facing cruel comments from a customer.

Another co-worker, Lillian Brennan, recalled how Goncalves had came in for coffee on her day off and, realizing Brennan was overwhelmed, stayed to help her through the shift.

Xana Kernodle

Xana Kernodle (20) majored in the College of Business and Economics. She was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority and graduated from Post Falls High School in 2020 before becoming a student at University of Idaho.

Maya Hippenstiel, a friend of Xana’s for the last 4 years, said she was “the life of every party in more ways than one” and would “fill any room with light and laughter.” She also described Xana as loving and compassionate as well as extremely driven and goal-oriented.

Hippenstiel set up a GoFundMe shortly after Xana’s death to help pay for funeral costs and provide some relief to the family. The GoFundMe page can be found here .

Ethan Chapin

Ethan Chapin (20) was a Washington native and played basketball at Mount Vernon High School prior to graduating in 2021.

Like their brother, Ethan’s triplet siblings, Maizie and Hunter, were also enrolled at the University of Idaho. Stacy Chapin, Ethan’s mom, said “Ethan was literally the greatest kid and his smile would light up every room! More importantly, he was a triplet and his brother and sister need all of the strength and prayers possible because they were best friends.”

Ethan had planned to major in recreation, sport, and tourism management. He became a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity after joining U of I. Ethan’s fraternity brothers started a GoFundMe on behalf of the Chapin family – found here .

Madison Mogen

Madison Mogen (21) was a senior marketing major at U of I and had plans to move to Boise, ID following her graduation that would’ve taken place this spring.

Mogen worked at the Mad Greek in Moscow as a server alongside her roommate, Xana Kernodle. Her skills in marketing and social media even saw Mogen managing the Mad Greek’s social media pages.

The restaurant created a post via their Facebook to remember both women, saying “Xana and Maddie have been servers here for several years and brought so much joy to our restaurant and all of those they encountered.”

A combined GoFundMe was created for Goncalves and Mogen for their families. Both girls had been best friends since childhood. Their GoFundMe page can be located here .

What Will Happen to Moscow Idaho Crime Scene House?

The owners of the home on 1122 King Road have yet to state what they plan on doing with the home following the quadruple homicide that took place there.

https://www.wbaltv.com/article/idaho-quadruple-murder-suspect-initial-court-appearance/42407089

https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/community/boise/article268777972.html

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2022/12/07/idaho-police-seek-car-seen-near-site-where-4-students-killed-2/

https://www.kivitv.com/news/investigators-cleaning-up-crime-scene-of-quadruple-homicide-near-university-of-idaho

https://www.kuula.co/post/NWF5Q/collection/79sT0

https://meaww.com/1122-king-house-now-to-be-demolished-or-turned-into-a-memorial-for-four-students-were-killed

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11487643/Eerie-photos-reveal-inside-Idaho-quadruple-murder-house-frozen-time.html

https://globalnews.ca/news/9325807/idaho-student-killings-two-surviving-roommates-speak-out/#:~:text=Dylan%20Mortenson%20and%20Bethany%20Funke,their%20friends%20on%20Nov.%2013.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/idaho-murders-suspect-bryan-kohberger-dna-knife-sheath-crime-scene-affidavit/

https://abcnews.go.com/US/idaho-murders-suspect-bryan-kohberger-arrives-idaho-face/story?id=96177551

https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/special-reports/moscow-murders/moscow-suspect-bryan-kohberger-found-through-matching-dna-knife-sheath-trash-can/277-ff85fa5b-1e53-41cf-bc33-c2d0fb6463fd

.css-16urd06{margin:0;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif;font-weight:400;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.5;} .css-1eo6nkc{color:rgb(0, 0, 238);font-size:24px;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;cursor:pointer;} Sarah Paschall

Sarah has written and edited for numerous media outlets in a variety of different niches – though entertainment is her all-time favorite topic to cover. When she is not hard at work researching and writing about Hollywood’s top talents for Velvet Ropes, Sarah enjoys working on her fiction novels, developing her blog, and gaming. You can follow Sarah on Twitter at: Twitter.com/tuspock91

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The 6 Most Haunted Places in Idaho

Idaho is not a state that is particularly known for ghost stories and hauntings. For some reason, it is often seen as a more wholesome state compared to some of the other paranormal hotspots around the country.

However, that doesn’t mean that there is no ghost activity to be found, you just have to know where to look! From creepy cemeteries to abandoned prisons, haunted Idaho has a little bit of everything to offer.

Take a look at the six most haunted places in Idaho!

1. Canyon Hill Cemetery, Caldwell

When it comes to local ghost stories, there are always one or two that really stick in your mind thanks to some of the unique details. In Idaho, one such story is that of the legless jogger who haunts Canyon Hill Cemetery!

Apparently, if you are brave enough to drive up to the gates of the cemetery and park your car there around midnight the apparition of a jogger with no legs floats up to the driver-side window and taps on the glass!

2. The Bates Motel, Coeur d' Alene

Originally, The Bates Motel in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho was officers’ barracks both before and during the second world war. It was later sold and converted into a motel known as The Roadway Inn.

Several years later it was sold again, this time to Mr. Randy Bates who renamed it The Bates Motel. This was long before the movie Psycho was ever released, but the name certainly made it popular once the movie did come out! It has actually been suggested that the author of Psycho, Robert Bloch, stayed at the motel sometime in the fifties and kept note of the name.

The now-iconic Bates Motel sign was put up by a production crew in the eighties when a movie was filmed there and was left behind when production wrapped.

Now, the real-life Bates Motel may not be as terrifying as the movie version, but it is still considered to be one of the most haunted places in Idaho! Both guests and employees say that there is near-constant paranormal activity at the hotel.

The majority of the unexplained occurrences seem to be centered on rooms one and three. Guests who are given these rooms often report getting the unsettling feeling of being watched.

They also experience cold spots, strange noises, lights turning on and off and ashtrays either being knocked off of tables or simply moved to another spot when no one has been in the room.

Learn more about the haunted Bates Motel, Coeur d’ Alene

3. Shoshone Indian Ice caves, Shoshone

When we think about haunted locations, it is a natural reaction to think only of buildings, but one of the most haunted places in Idaho is actually a cave! Shoshone Indian Ice Caves are a popular attraction for tourists visiting the area.

However, long after the tourists have gone and the caves are closed up it is said that employees hear phantom footsteps and hushed voices. Some have suggested that it is the Indian princess Edahow who haunts the caves since she was buried in the ice many decades ago.

4. Owyhee Plaza, Boise

The Owyhee Plaza has been something of a Landmark in Boise, Idaho since 1910. It has seen a large amount of renovation work over the years, but it still retains most of its regal and classic architecture.

From the time it opened up until the 1940s the hotel was considered something of a hotspot, especially a rooftop garden which featured a restaurant and dance floor which often had live music.

Now offering office, retail, and living facilities, this one-time hotel is without a doubt one of the most haunted places in the state!

Past staff and guests alike have report strange goings-on at the hotel including a full-body apparition!

One of the most compelling reports comes from a couple who stayed in room number 136. The lady awoke during the night and saw a female spirit standing in the room. She said that she was not at all scared, in fact, she felt a sense of calm come over her!

She asked the spirit who she was and what she wanted, but the ghostly woman simply faded away.

Other guests and staff have reported similar apparitions in various different parts of the hotel and many people report the sensation that they are being watched or hearing strange unexplained noises.

Read more about the Owyhee Plaza Hotel and Residencies

5. The Brig at Farragut State Park, Farragut

Farragut State Park is one of the most popular vacation spots in Northern Idaho thanks to its convenient location and fantastic amenities, but come nightfall the campground known as The Brig is not for the faint of heart! In fact, it is one of the most haunted places in Idaho!

The Brig was originally a naval training center and at one time it also served as a military jail. It was built during the Second World War in response to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The construction took 11 months and cost around $100 million.

In terms of the history of the area, The Brig has been the site of at least one homicide and there was also at least one suicide here during World War 2. When Farragut was a military base, it would have been home to around 300,000 men.

It is not clear who or what actually haunts The Brig, but most witnesses do agree that the apparition seems to be in some kind of uniform although there is debate as to whether this is a military uniform or prison garb – both of which would be plausible for the building.

It could be that the sightings are two or more different apparitions. Visitors, campers, and staff over the years have all described the apparition in detail saying that he almost seems like a real living person – apart from the fact that he can vanish into thin air and is often slightly transparent!

Aside from the apparition, there are also reports of objects flying across the old cells and large, heavy objects being ‘relocated’ when nobody has been in the building! Sounds like the ideal spot to go camping, right?

Learn more about the haunted Brig at Farragut State Park, Farragut

6. Old Idaho State Penitentiary, Boise

Everyone knows that prisons are nearly always a magnet for paranormal activity thanks to the melting pot of emotions that soak into the walls of these buildings. Old Idaho State Penitentiary is no different and it has long been considered one of the most haunted prisons in the US .

The prison was established back in 1870 as a one-cell house, but it very quickly began to grow into a complex of buildings enclosed by a thick wall of sandstone. In fact, part of the prisoners’ sentences was mining the rock to build the very walls that kept them in!

Over 10,000 convicts have passed through the prison over the course of a century and it seems that not all of them left!

There have been several deaths on the premises including 10 executions and 110 documented deaths due to illness, murder, and plain old age.

However, the conditions in this prison were horrific, with inmates being subjected to inhumane treatment so it would not be surprising if the death toll was actually much higher, and those deaths were simply not documented!

Due to the design of the prison, the cells were unbearably hot in the summer months and freezing cold in Winter, plus there was no indoor plumbing so as you might imagine there was a great deal of misery and suffering which has definitely left a mark on the prison.

There are a number of documented paranormal events that have happened in the Old Idaho State Penitentiary. The most haunted spot is said to be 5 House where Idaho’s answer to Jack the Ripper, Raymond Allen Snowden was executed in 1957.

It is believed that the murderer’s soul is still haunting the prison and grounds and he has done even before the prison closed in the seventies.

Reports of his presence have been made by visitors, staff, and prisoners alike! Whenever he draws near, the living is said to be overcome by a feeling of dread and oppression.

Snowden is by no means the only spirit at Old Idaho State Penitentiary. It is a fairly common occurrence for visitors to hear phantom footsteps echoing throughout the halls and disembodied voices are also heard fairly regularly.

Visitors participating in the regular walking tours of the old prison have also been touched and even pushed by unseen hands. There is a very strong feeling of being watched from the shadows and several shadow figures have also been spotted in a number of places around the prison.

Read more about the haunted Old Idaho State Penitentiary, Boise, ID

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Haunted Hotels in idaho

If you’re looking to take your thrill-seeking levels higher than your local haunted house or haunted maze, then spending the night in one of Idaho’s most haunted hotels is a must. If you’re feeling brave, be sure to request the most haunted room when you book!

Learn about Idaho’s Haunted Hotels

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