Buzz
If you thought your IQ took a hit from navigating the previous ten roads, buckle up because there are even more thrilling routes ahead! The earlier list included picks by me and Mr. Frater, but this one is largely based on suggestions from our readers in the comments. So, relax, keep reading, and brace yourself for another round of spine-chilling adventures!
10. Ghormley Road Fayette County, Ohio
This road claims the number 10 spot for several reasons, with my personal bias being a significant factor. I visited it the night before compiling this list, and it was undeniably eerie. While I didn’t witness anything definitive, I can’t outright call it haunted (though I lean toward skepticism). The road features an S-curve with a bridge over a rapidly flowing creek, easily the most unsettling bridge I’ve ever encountered. My paranoia might be at play here, but numerous accidents have occurred due to drivers misjudging the sharp curve, and tales of ghostly apparitions abound. During my visit, I noticed odd movements, and my friend claimed to hear whispers. Ohio locals, if you’re seeking a good scare, Ghormley Road should be on your list. Sadly, no quality photos of the road or bridge exist, so a stock image will have to suffice.
9. Pali Highway Honolulu, Hawaii
I’m not sure if police monitor this highway, as folklore suggests that carrying pork while driving here will cause your vehicle to malfunction. I’ll leave that mystery to those wiser than myself. But if you’re brave enough to traverse this route, avoid bringing pork unless you want to risk angering the spirits—or perhaps Pele herself—who might sabotage your car. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to check out Old Pali Road, where you might encounter the ghostly figure of a girl missing half her face. Ah, the joys of paradise!
8. Reformatory Road Mansfield, Ohio
Alright, take a deep breath. Two Ohio roads, Ian? Really? Yes, really. And that’s it, I swear. We’re all familiar with *The Shawshank Redemption*, filmed at the Mansfield Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio (shown above). But the building shouldn’t steal all the spotlight. Phoebe Wise was an eccentric recluse. She lived alone, never married, and was generally considered peculiar. As the youngest of eight siblings, she inherited her parents’ house and a modest sum of money (a decent amount, though not a fortune). She also sold some land for undisclosed amounts. Long story short, rumors of hidden wealth began to circulate. Some men broke in, tied her up, tortured her for the supposed treasure, and left with almost nothing (turns out, there was no treasure). They threatened to kill her if she left her house and fled. She struggled to reach the police, as the intruders had burned her feet with a torch.
Phoebe survived and continued living alone until 1933. Now, it’s said she roams the road, keeping watch for any burglars attempting to plunder her home for the rumored treasure.
7. Mary Angela Road Memphis, Tennessee
Landocommando would be furious if I left this out, and luckily, it’s actually fascinating! Mary Angela Road is a secluded, rural path leading to the source of its eerie tales: Voodoo Village. This small compound is rumored to host bizarre rituals and animal sacrifices, making it an undeniably creepy spot. The extent of its haunting or malevolence is debated, and many stories likely stem from local misunderstandings. However, the strange, colorful paintings and mysterious statues make it easy to see why the rumors persist. The locals hate the name Voodoo Village and will get angry if you take photos. Walsh Harris, the founder, was once part of the Masonic Lodge, and much of the artwork reflects Masonic symbols and Scripture. It’s undoubtedly a peculiar place, and don’t expect a warm welcome. Also, don’t be shocked if they block your exit with a truck…
6. Pacheco Pass California
This route is infamous for its frequent accidents and ghostly tales! Many drowsy drivers have met tragic fates here, but the hauntings aren’t always tied to these incidents. The road is rumored to have a “time warp,” leading to accounts of “lost time” (a phenomenon explored elsewhere on this site). Strange lights often appear in the sky, and sightings of Old West figures and a stagecoach have been reported. Additionally, the San Luis Reservoir is said to hide a mysterious glowing light beneath its surface. Driving here might cause overwhelming dread, sudden sadness, intense anxiety, or even diarrhea. One of these is a joke—can you guess which?
5. Balete Drive Philippines
Mytour’s Filipino audience was quite vocal about the omission of their cherished Balete Drive. After some research, I understand why! Legend has it that Balete trees, which line the road, attract spirits and other supernatural beings. Keep your focus ahead—glancing in your rear-view mirror might reveal a horrifying sight. A woman in a white dress, with long, flowing hair and no face, may appear in your backseat. The last thing you want is to check for traffic and encounter THAT. Even if the faceless apparition spares you, the road boasts three haunted mansions whose former owners couldn’t bear to leave.
4. Sweet Hollow Road Melville, New York
The woods around this road, and the road itself, are said to be teeming with paranormal activity. Local ghost hunters have captured some bizarre images, and it’s easy to see why. Three troubled teenagers once ended their lives by hanging from the overpass, and some claim their bodies still sway in the wind on dark nights. Mary, a nurse from a nearby hospital, is said to wander the road, perhaps attempting to save the lost souls. And if that’s not unsettling enough, beware of being pulled over—not for breaking the law, but because the officer patrolling the area isn’t exactly alive. He won’t issue a ticket but will stare silently at you, blood dripping from his shoulders. Once he’s made his point, he’ll turn to reveal the fatal bullet wound in the back of his skull.
3. Shades of Death Road New Jersey
If this ranking were based solely on names, Shades of Death would undoubtedly take the top spot. How ominous can it be, though, when it runs alongside… Ghost Lake? Seriously, it’s like someone insisted this place be haunted! And haunted it is, according to many. Between murderers, violent gangs, and a mysterious plague, this road has seen its share of death. At one point, the population of malaria-carrying mosquitoes was so dense that victims were laid on the roadside, hoping a passing doctor might save them. Ghost Lake, known for its eerie mist and a haunted cabin, is the highlight of the drive. If you’re lucky—or unlucky—you might spot a murder victim wandering in the fog. Yes, New Jersey wins again, but Bolivia wasn’t competing for scariest ghosts—it was the terrifying road design that stood out! With its stories, lake, name, and history, Shades of Death is a strong contender.
2. El Camino de la Muerte Bolivia
This is the only road where the ghosts are overshadowed by the road itself! Yes, its name translates to “The Road of Death,” and it’s fitting. This treacherous highway winds through Bolivia’s mountains, featuring 900-meter drops with no guardrails, passing buses, and trucks navigating debris and rocks from landslides. While it has its share of ghosts, you’d be wise to focus on the road ahead rather than searching for spirits.
1. Lawler Ford Road St. Louis, Missouri
Despite its name, this road is unlikely to make you laugh—more likely, it’ll make you PYP (Pee Your Pants). Known by its far more chilling nickname, Zombie Road, this narrow path winds through two miles of dense woods, ending at an abandoned rock quarry. The road is now largely deserted, with its sign replaced by a chained gate. Among its eerie inhabitants are: a boy who fell to his death from nearby cliffs, a man killed by a train, an old woman who screams at passersby from her house, Native American spirits wandering the woods, and plenty of Satan worshippers. The road’s spooky nickname comes from a mysterious killer known as The Zombie, who once lurked in a shack, attacking lovers and partygoers. Some say he’s still around, as reports of visitors vanishing are not uncommon.
