West Virginia establishes statewide "paranormal trail" for dark tourism

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia has established a statewide Paranormal Trail to help spook-seekers discover its most spine-chilling sites.

According to Chelsea Ruby, director of the W.Va. Department of Tourism, an accompanying digital passport allows visitors to check in at haunted locations, earn points, and unlock exciting prizes.

“Recent trends have shown us that travelers are increasingly interested in spooky and unique destinations,” Ruby said.

“West Virginia has quite a few spots with haunted histories, so we created the Paranormal Trail to tap into the thriving market for themed tours and attractions.

"Whether learning about local legends or touring notoriously haunted attractions, it appeals to travelers interested in spooky sightings, mystery, and local lore.”

To experience West Virginia's haunts and uncover chilling tales, travelers may register to participate in The West Virginia Paranormal Trail online and instantly receive the digital passport via email or text.

Once their exploration is underway, visitors may check in to spooky spots around the state to earn points and unlock exclusive Paranormal Trail prizes – including an official sticker, a beanie, and a limited-edition print by West Virginia artist Liz Pavlovic.

The trail highlights 14 eerie landmarks across West Virginia

• The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, with its Gothic architecture and dark history, is a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts wanting to experience the chilling atmosphere firsthand. The site has been featured on SyFy’s Ghost Hunters and the Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventures.
• Haunted by the spirits of those who perished there, Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park delivers an eerie experience in a desolate, forgotten setting.
• Known for ongoing paranormal activity, the West Virginia Penitentiary offers a somber exploration of its haunted history. The prison has even been featured in TIME Magazine.
• As the first ghost tour in America, the Ghost Tour of Harpers Ferry is rooted in the town's haunted history. It's a spine-tingling journey that uncovers unearthly tales of the town’s former residents.
• Dedicated to the legend of the Mothman, the Mothman Museum offers a glimpse into the sinister sightings near the “TNT Area.”
• As one of the oldest hotels in the state, the Blennerhassett Hotel has its share of ghost stories, with hallways said to be haunted by ghostly children playing tag and men in top hats.
• Rumored to be a hotspot for paranormal activity, Hotel Morgan is a boutique hotel that blends luxury with history — and perhaps a few hauntings.
• Dedicated to the infamous 1952 sighting, the Flatwoods Monster Museum offers a comprehensive look into this eerie event and other paranormal phenomena in West Virginia.
• The Old Hospital on College Hill attracts ghost hunters from far and wide with its ominous atmosphere and reported paranormal activity. The site was even featured on the Travel Channel’s Destination Fear.
• The Historic Glen Ferris Inn is haunted by the apparition of “The Colonel,” a Civil War officer with a long beard. It provides a unique and memorable experience.
• Led by experienced tour guides, the Shepherdstown Mystery Walk is a unique and immersive journey through Shepherdstown’s most haunted historical sites.
• The Haunted Haymond House delivers a frightening adventure with spooky scenes and creepy characters. This 130-year-old house provides a petrifying experience for thrill-seekers of all ages.
• A chilling relic of the B&O Railroad era, the Flinderation Tunnel, located on the North Bend Rail Trail, is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its builders. This attracts paranormal enthusiasts who want to uncover its eerie history.
• Along the Elk River Trail between Ivydale and Duck, you’ll find a 10.5-foot, 1,800-pound Bigfoot looming in front of you. This towering figure was crafted by students in Clay County.

West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice congratulated the W.Va. Division of Tourism officials and their partners on developing the trail.

"I love when we come up with new ways to get folks to explore West Virginia," Justice said.

"We've got so much unique history here, stories passed down through the years, and even a few ghost tales. Our new paranormal trail is a way to check out some places that'll give you the chills. Now that October is here, people are looking for a spooky way to get in the spirit of things, and this trail is just the ticket."

Accessing the Paranormal Trail Passport is easy!

1. Navigate to wvtourism.com/paranormal.
2. Register for your West Virginia Paranormal Trail Passport by filling out your contact information.
3. After signing up, the digital passport for the Paranormal Trail will be delivered to your phone via text or to the email provided.
4. Explore the haunts of West Virginia! Open the passport on your phone, scroll to find the location you’re visiting, and check in to mark it off your list.