There's A Hike In Alaska That Leads You Straight To An Abandoned WWII Fort
Carey Seward
Author
Alaska has a rich WWII history, as the state was on the front lines as a territory of the U.S. during the war. South of Seward, Fort McGilvray was constructed as a fortification on Caines Head, a cliff 650 feet above Resurrection Bay. This area was strategically important because Resurrection Bay remains ice-free year-round, and there was a serious threat of Japanese invasion. Take the amazing Caines Head Trail to this abandoned WWII fort in lovely Seward, Alaska. Some say it’s even a haunted hike in Alaska!
Caines Head State Recreation Area
7 miles south of downtown
Seward, AK 99664
Related Stories
This Easy Wildflower Hike In Alaska Will Transport You Into A Sea Of Color
The Alaska Hike That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination
Take This Gorgeous River Valley Trail In Alaska For The Ultimate Summer Adventure
If you are a WWII buff, you will want to visit The Remnants Of This Abandoned Fortress In Alaska, which is hauntingly beautiful. Check out This Rare WII Footage From 1942 Shows Alaska Like You’ve Never Seen It Before.
Have you been to this haunted hike in Alaska? Did you think it was creepy? Tell us about it in the comments below. And don’t forget to read the ultimate hiking packing list.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Haunted Hike In Alaska
How hard is the Caines Head Trail?
The Caines Head trail in Alaska is moderately difficult. This 4.5-mile one-way trail offers a mix of beach and forest paths, with some steep and rocky areas. Its unique feature is a coastal section passable only at low tide, requiring careful tide monitoring and planning.
Adequate preparation with proper gear, food, and water is essential, especially considering the rapidly changing weather conditions. Shorter, easier trails are available in the Caines Head State Recreation Area for those seeking a less challenging hike.
Are there haunted hikes in Alaska?
Yes, Alaska has several hikes that are reputed to be haunted or have associated eerie legends. The state's vast and often remote wilderness, combined with its rich history, has given rise to various spooky tales and legends. Here are a few examples:
- Perseverance Trail, Juneau: This trail is known for the legend of the "Lady in White," a ghostly figure said to haunt the old mining area around Perseverance Valley. The area's mining history lends some of the trails a ghost-town feel.
- Eklutna Historical Park: Located near Anchorage, this area includes the Eklutna Cemetery, known for its "spirit houses." These colorful small houses built over graves are part of the native Athabaskan burial tradition. The site has a haunting atmosphere with its old Russian Orthodox church and unique graves.
- Chilkoot Trail: This trail, famous for its Gold Rush history, is said to be haunted by the spirits of prospectors who perished in harsh conditions. The trail stretches from Dyea, Alaska, to Bennett, British Columbia, and is known for its rugged and challenging terrain.
- Seward’s Mount Marathon: There are tales about hikers seeing ghostly figures or experiencing unexplained phenomena on this mountain, particularly around the famous Mount Marathon Racecourse area.
- Ketchikan's Totem Bight State Historical Park: Some visitors have reported eerie feelings and unexplained sounds among the totem poles and in the rainforest, contributing to a spooky ambiance.
While these hikes offer beautiful scenery and a glimpse into Alaska’s history, the haunted legends add an extra layer of intrigue for those interested in the paranormal. However, it's important to remember that these stories are based on local folklore and personal experiences, not verified paranormal activity.