Idaho is loaded with chilling attractions, ghostly legends, and locations with a macabre past. Here are 11 things to see in Idaho if you’re into the creepy and the macabre:
- Old Idaho Penitentiary (Boise)
Explore cellblocks, execution sites, and “House 5” where Idaho’s “Jack the Ripper” was executed. Visitors often report phantom footsteps, cold spots, and shadowy figures roaming this decommissioned prison. - Haunted Mansions of Albion (Albion)
Once a school campus, now transformed into the largest haunted attraction in the Northwest, with real reports of jump-scares, hangings, and ghostly encounters in the historic buildings. - The Haunted Mill (Teton)
A 100-year-old mill that’s now Idaho’s scariest haunted house each October. The grounds and original log granary add to the terrifying experience—complete with legendary ghost sightings. - Spirit Lake (Spirit Lake)
Said to be haunted by the tragic spirits of travelers lost along the Oregon Trail. The neighboring Stricker Ranch is known for its restless pioneer ghosts. - Lake Coeur d’Alene
Local legends say the lake is haunted by a fish-woman apparition and odd, unexplained sounds. Boat captains report turbulent waters and ghostly figures near large rocks. - Idaho State Tuberculosis Hospital (Gooding University Inn and Resort, Gooding)
Shadowy apparitions, doors slamming, and mysterious voices—paranormal investigators can even spend the night at this former TB hospital and mental institution. - Boot Hill Cemetery (Idaho City)
The resting ground of pioneers, miners, and outlaws. Many believe their unfinished business keeps their spirits wandering among pine trees and unmarked graves. - Morris Hill Cemetery (Boise)
Home to many “violently deceased” residents from Idaho’s frontier past. Apparition sightings and the spooky atmosphere are popular with ghost hunters. - The Bates Motel (Coeur d’Alene)
Inspiration for Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” and a stop that fans of horror history won’t want to miss. - Burley Asylum (La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, Burley)
This now-converted asylum and sports bar is still said to be haunted, with chilling paranormal stories from staff and visitors. - Scarywood Haunt at Silverwood Theme Park (Athol)
Each October, the entire theme park transforms into “Scarywood,” one of the top haunted attractions in the Pacific Northwest, with multiple scare zones and frightful creatures.
These eerie sites promise not only hair-raising experiences but a fascinating glimpse into Idaho’s darker histories and haunted legends.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.themandagies.com/haunted-places-in-idaho/)
[2](https://totallyboise.com/about-boise/local-stories/articleid/3212/spooky-haunted-spots-in-boise)
[3](https://visitsouthidaho.com/where-to-experience-paranormal-activity-this-spooky-season/)
[4](https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g29225-d11669114-Reviews-Haunted_Mansions_of_Albion-Albion_Idaho.html)
[5](https://www.thehauntedmillinteton.com)
