The Creepiest Hike in Massachusetts Takes You Through the Ruins of an Abandoned Fort

There are some incredibly creepy places and creepy hikes throughout the Bay State. After all, it's one of the oldest states in the nation with centuries of history. The legends alone are endlessly fascinating. You can get creeped out while hiking at Dogtown in Gloucester, which is said to be haunted, or explore the fascinating ruins at Mount Tom State Reservation. And we found what just might be the creepiest hike in Massachusetts—it's located on Peddocks Island, where you can explore the ruins of an abandoned fort. Get ready for a perfectly spooky adventure.

Peddocks Island is one of the largest islands in Boston Harbor. Located by the town of Hull, the island is both a beautiful and historical place to explore on a day trip. This 184-acre island is part of the larger Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, which is made up of a total of 34 islands. Peddocks Island is reachable by private boat or ferry, and either way you get there, you will be glad you went.

The ruins of Fort Andrews, originally constructed between 1898 and 1904, are on the island. By 1920, the island had over 30 buildings, including a hospital and military barracks. Some buildings held members of the Italian Service Units, former Italian prisoners of war who were held here. These servicemen were put to work by the U.S. Army.

Fort Andrews was active during both World War I and World War II and was finally decommissioned in 1946. In the 1970s, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts purchased the fort. Several abandoned fort buildings still remain on the island. You can explore them by taking the 5.1-mile Peddocks Island Perimeter and Fort Loop Trail.

Hiking around the island is like taking a step back in time to experience what people did back then. While fascinating and historical, abandoned places always seem to have a creepy vibe that can make the hair stand on the back of your neck. The island itself, however, isn't exactly abandoned—some seasonal residents live in summer cottages here in the warmer months. Talk about a fascinating place to stay!

While there are some creepy buildings on the island, one is quite striking. Peddocks Island Chapel is a World War II-era church built in 1941. It was renovated between 2012 and 2014 to its original glory. When you come to the island, seeing this chapel is certainly worthwhile.

Have you been to Peddocks Island to see the ruins of Fort Andrews? Did you get scared or see anything out of the ordinary? We would love to hear all about it! What are some of the creepiest hikes in Massachusetts that you know about? If you want to spend more than a day at this abandoned fort hike in Massachusetts, campsites are also available. For a Peddocks Island Perimeter and Fort map, visit AllTrails.

If you want to book accommodations nearby, reserve a room at The Beacon Waterfront Inn, and get ready for a fantastic trip! You will be nice and comfortable after a big day of exploring the great outdoors.

Plan your own trip to Hull, Massachusetts, with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.