If you're on the prowl for a one-of-a-kind hike in Pennsylvania, you might just have stumbled upon it. Now as to it being one of the scariest hiking trails in Pennsylvania, well, that depends on how you define scary. If the thought of potentially experiencing the paranormal and walking where death once occurred sends shivers down your spine, you'll find this Pennsylvania trail downright eerie. Even if you don't, it's a pretty trek that's sure to capture your imagination.
Several trails wind through Dead Man's Hollow Conservation Area in McKeesport, an area that's said to be teeming with the paranormal.
No matter which path you travel, you'll likely feel a sense of gloom among the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Cool Spirit Trail, which scores a moderate rating, tallies just under two miles.
The area in which the conservation area now sits was once home to a quarry and later a pipe factory. You can even see some of the remains of that factory today.
While its history may seem rather tame, a few unsavory tales have emerged from this wooded area over the years, including that of a murder.
Two men - Ward McConkey and George McClure - crossed paths in the hollow. Legend has it that McConkey murdered McClure. No one knows why.
Proclaiming his innocence to the very end, McConkey was later executed. Visitors to the hollow claim his spirit roams the woods to this day.
A man is said to have committed suicide by hanging from a tree in the hollow, too, not long before the McClure murder.
Enjoy the melody of the birds as you make your way along this picturesque path than can get quite muddy. You'll probably want to wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty or ruined.
However, that might not be all you hear. Hikers tell of strange noises - including people talking and laughing, except...there's no one there. Some have even seen the shadow of a man darting through the trees.
Learn more about Dead Man's Hollow on the Allegheny Land Trust website.
Do you have a favorite hike in Pennsylvania that you'd also consider quite scary - either because it's dangerous, haunted, or for another reason? Let us know in the comments! If you're a fan of spooky, plan a visit to what might be the eeriest place in Pennsylvania. (Hint: It's an abandoned town!)
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