One of the best ways to explore Arizona’s haunting history is by getting outdoors. Our state is brimming with hikes that lead through ghost towns, abandoned mine shafts, cemeteries, and old railroad tracks — or in the case of Fairbank Loop, all of the above. This desolate adventure is perfect for those who like their nature with a side of creepiness.

Fairbank Loop via San Pedro Trail is an easy, 3.9-mile hike near Tombstone. With an elevation gain of under 100 feet, it’s suitable for most skill levels.
AllTrails/Louie Slayton
While the hike isn’t difficult by any stretch of the imagination, most people still prefer to stay far, far away. Why you might ask? Well, first of all, the trailhead is in the long-forgotten ghost town of Fairbank. If that doesn’t send you running for the hills, we don’t know what would.
Along the way, you’ll see a myriad of spooky sights, from cars left to rust in the harsh desert elements to an abandoned ore mill.
AllTrails/Louie Slayton
Much like with any other mining operation, it’s safe to assume lives were lost at the mill in tragic accidents. Who's to say the restless spirits of those gone too soon aren’t trapped inside, waiting for someone to take their anger out on?
When you see a sign that reads "Open Mine Shafts," stay back a considerable distance.
AllTrails/Lindsay Swift
Not only is there an obvious danger in getting near the gaping abysses, but a less tangible hazard, as well. After all, anything could be lurking within that impossible darkness.

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Barren trees line the path, their gnarled branches curving inwards to form a tunnel of sorts.
AllTrails/Lindsay Swift
With every step, the forest engulfs you deeper into its clutches. Ancient tree roots snake along the ground like tendrils, threatening to grab you at any given moment.
Part of the trail sits atop a former railroad line that once connected Fairbank and Tombstone.
AllTrails/Jim Cichon
Some say if you listen closely, the faint sound of a train horn can be heard in the distance — even though the tracks were taken up long ago.
Venture off onto a side trail, and you'll come upon Fairbank Cemetery.
AllTrails/Louie Slayton
It contains an estimated 60 gravesites, the causes of death ranging from illness to building fires to even murder. Perhaps some of the deceased were mine workers who, as we mentioned earlier, suffered an untimely demise. No matter exactly why these unfortunate souls were laid to rest, one thing's for sure: traipsing through a ghost town graveyard isn't for the faint of heart.
Even the views are hauntingly beautiful.
AllTrails/Lindsay Swift
Parallelling the San Pedro River, the trail is just as gorgeous as it is creepy. Visit at sunrise or just before dusk for a scene so "spooktacular," you'll hardly believe your eyes.

Visit the AllTrails page to learn more.

Have you ever hiked this spooky trail? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience! Let us know, and check out our previous article for another haunted hike in Arizona.

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