We’re huge fans of getting outside in Maine. If you’ve been a longtime reader you’ll know that we often extol the benefits of getting fresh air through the state’s network of beautiful trails. And while we will always believe that enjoying the outdoors is one of the best ways to find some peace and quiet, we do know of one trail that might do the opposite. This one is said to be haunted and it’s a terrifyingly creepy story!
The 1.3-mile Ship Harbor Nature Trail in Southwest Harbor near Acadia National Park is one of the best routes in the area for a leisurely way to enjoy the landscape and sea breeze.
Lisa Keevill / alltrails.com
Because the trail is fairly flat, this is a great activity for kids and for adults who have spent time hiking the more strenuous trails in Acadia.
Pernellevoyage / TripAdvisor
In fact, with its boardwalks and well-groomed pathways, this might be the best way to wind down. And while you can count on plenty of fresh air and peace here, there’s another side to this trail that might take away some of the pleasure.
Julie Besco / alltrails.com
The Ship Harbor Nature Trail is said to be haunted and, after hearing some of the stories, we believe it.
Thomas Morello / alltrails.com
In October of 1739, there was a shipwreck just off the coast of Ship Harbor. This wasn’t uncommon back then. A lack of lighthouses and that craggy Maine coast took down quite a few ships.
Aldo Sainez / alltrails.com
The crew swam to shore in what must have been frigid water. When they arrived they were dismayed to find that the area was uninhabited. They didn’t have a lot of options and many died within just a few days. They were buried right here, presumably surrounding where this trail is today.
Scott Monighetti / alltrails.com
Those that did not die went off in search of help.
Hope Rowan / Maine Trail Finder
But with rocky landscape and forest, anything could have happened.
Dave Bow / alltrails.com
They were never seen or heard from again.
Lisa Keevill / alltrails.com
Today, people report hearing ghostly howls. Perhaps from those who died in freezing cold weather with no food.
Brett Laffin / alltrails.com It’s an eerie story, but it doesn’t take away from the beauty of the trail. So, give it a shot and if you come face-to-face with any spirits let them know that not a lot has changed. October is still cold, there aren’t a lot of people on the trail and the cold wind of the Maine coast is probably still worth howling about.
The Ship Harbor Nature Trail in Southwest Harbor is a great way to enjoy a day outside whether you believe in ghosts or not! You can learn more about it by visiting the trail’s page on alltrails.com or Maine Trail Finder. It’s open year-round and we love that dogs are allowed. Just be sure to keep them on a leash.
Lisa Keevill / alltrails.com
Pernellevoyage / TripAdvisor
Julie Besco / alltrails.com
Thomas Morello / alltrails.com
Aldo Sainez / alltrails.com
Scott Monighetti / alltrails.com
Hope Rowan / Maine Trail Finder
Dave Bow / alltrails.com
Brett Laffin / alltrails.com
It’s an eerie story, but it doesn’t take away from the beauty of the trail. So, give it a shot and if you come face-to-face with any spirits let them know that not a lot has changed. October is still cold, there aren’t a lot of people on the trail and the cold wind of the Maine coast is probably still worth howling about.
Looking for more ways to blend the outdoors and ghost stories? These 7 haunted hikes in Maine will get you in the mood for a terrifying Halloween!
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Address: Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA
