Spooky statewide trail offering exclusive prizes
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Tourism today announced the return of the popular West Virginia Paranormal Trail. Since its official launch in 2024, the trail has received nearly 14,000 sign-ups from visitors around the globe and includes 20 hair-raising locations.
This free, self-guided experience highlights some of West Virginia’s most legendary paranormal destinations, from historic asylums and haunted theatres to mysterious cryptid sites and spine-tingling tunnels.
To uncover West Virginia’s chilling tales and legendary haunts, travelers can register online and instantly receive a digital passport by email or text. Previous participants must register again to receive a new digital passport and be eligible for the 2026 challenge.
Spooky enthusiasts then have the chance to explore eerie locations around the state while earning exclusive prizes along the way.
- Check in at three or more spots and receive a glow-in-the-dark sticker.
- Check in at eight or more spots and receive a custom beanie.
- Check in at 15 or more spots and receive an adventure-ready lantern.
- Check in at all locations and receive a limited-edition poster.
Participants who visit all locations will be entered to win the grand prize of a gift certificate valid for an overnight tour at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum for two people. The winner will be announced in January 2027.
New Location
- Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park: The Civil War battlefield turned state park ranks among the region’s most haunted locations, with ghostly encounters reported throughout its grounds.
For more information on West Virginia’s Paranormal Trail or to register for a digital passport, visit wvtourism.com/paranormal. For images of the stops on the trail and prizes that scare-seekers can earn, click here.
