Almost Heaven After Dark

A classic favorite among history lovers and paranormal fanatics alike, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Lewis County is a must-visit stop this spooky season. Focus on the historic tales of this former hospital for the mentally ill—including a storied past of gold robberies and Civil War raids—on a Historic Tour. Or face the spirits that roam the halls on a Paranormal Tour, frequented by both amateur and experienced ghost hunters. It won’t take you long to figure out why major publications like Thrillist and USA Today dubbed this as one of the most haunted, Halloween-obsessed attractions in Appalachia.

Bring your little ones along for an exciting adventure this season—with both spooky and festive fun suitable for those of any age. Explore the animals of Oglebay Good Zoo with extended hours and enjoy all things Halloween along the way. Collect sweet treats, take a haunted train ride and get to work on a virtual scavenger hunt at this year’s Boo at the Zoo in Wheeling.

The North Bend Rail Trail is a favorite among hikers and bikers by day, but as the sun goes down, an eerie spirit has been known to trek a certain portion of this trail. The tale goes back to an alleged train crash in 1910, involving a young woman dressed in an all-white gown. Paranormal-fanatics claim you can see her ghostly figure to this day along the tracks of the Silver Run Tunnel, just outside of Parkersburg. If you dare, go hunting for this spooky sight within the 1,376 feet long dim tunnel.

Though certainly not a spooky attraction, an Underground Tour at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is the perfect way to experience the dark in Almost Heaven. Learn more about life in a historic coal town as you dive deep into the dark passages of a vintage coal mine in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. This Southern West Virginia stop also offers tours of their Coal Camp and Youth Museum. After you enjoy this fan-favorite adventure in Raleigh County, be sure to stop for a drink at Weathered Ground Brewery.

Check off nearly everything on your October bucket list at once at Stumpkins Pumpkins. This Mercer County farm has a pick your own pumpkin field, corn maze, hayrides, zipline and more. Stick around until nightfall, if you dare, and brave the Haunted Barn as creepy creatures and scary characters take up residence this season.

An amazing spot for enjoying the great outdoors and catching fall color, Watoga State Park is a Pocahontas County favorite. After a long day of hiking and leaf-peeing, cuddle up in a vacation cabin or bundle up for some late-season camping. No matter where you stay, take some time to adjust to the mountain skyscapes when the sun goes down. Look up towards the sky and soak up some of the best starry views to be found in Almost Heaven. Tell spooky stories by the campfire to get in the Halloween spirit or simply spend your night view-searching.

Learn about local haunts and spine-chilling folklore as you stroll through the Capital City, with the Charleston Ghost Tour Company. On your hauntingly fun route, experience true Appalachian Storytelling and catch a glimpse of the ominous spirits who roam the banks of the Kanawha River and beyond in Charleston. After your spooky tour head downtown to grab a bite to eat at Gonzoburger or grab a sweet pumpkin treat at Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream.