This Chilling Washington Hike Will Take You To Haunted Tunnels Over 120 Years Old
The Evergreen State is filled with those always seeking out an outdoor adventure. And if you're one of those people who love spooks year-round, this spot is for you. This haunted hike in Washington will take you to a chilling disaster site that's not for the faint of heart.
Located in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, the Iron Goat Trail is considered the site of one of the worst railroad disasters in the history of the United States.
Lightning struck mountains, causing a major avalanche to derail not one but two trains and leaving nearly 100 casualties in its wake. Although the tracks were abandoned after the incident in 1929, a roughly 6-mile roundtrip hike will take you to this spot.
You'll need a $5 Northwest Forest Pass for each vehicle parked at the trailhead, and it's best to visit in the spring when you can see wildflowers and foliage along the way.
The trail takes you through a loop of wooden bridges strewn across creeks and tiny waterfalls as they cascade over collapsed logs and tunnels.
You'll even encounter a bright, red caboose that's a popular photo op.
Signs along the way will dish out historical facts about the place and the disaster that went down here.
So, why are we calling this place haunted?
After the people died at this spot, solo hikers have reported hearing voices echoing through the eerie tunnels.
Claims have also included seeing apparitions, feeling invisible hands touching them and experiencing chills and hair standing on end for no apparent reason.
Plus, screams have apparently been heard around Tye River Gorge, the site of the mishap.
If this isn't creepy, we don't know what is.
Entering the Old Cascade Tunnel is strictly prohibited because the structures, which were built in 1893, are on the verge of collapse.
We don't know if it's that or the supposed spirits, but nighttime hiking is also not allowed here.
However, there's a viewpoint on the west end of this area to get a glimpse of history.
Even if you're venturing out here during the day, we'd recommend getting a friend or your dog (yes, thankfully, they're allowed on a leash!) to come along for this haunted hike.
Iron Goat Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Address: Iron Goat Trail, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, WA
Why You Need To Go: This hike will take you to creepy tunnels — the site of one of the worst railroad disasters in America's history.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.