Every mountain town has a story to tell, and in Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, some of those stories are a little more haunting than others.
From mysterious tunnels and historic hotels to centuries-old churches and legendary ghost sightings, Mountain Maryland is filled with fascinating history and a few unexplained mysteries.
Whether you're planning a Halloween getaway, searching for a spooky adventure, or simply love a good ghost story, these historic places invite you to explore the more mysterious side of Mountain Maryland.
Paw Paw Tunnel
Photo Credit: Steve Dean
The Haunting Qualities: Stretching 3,118 feet through the mountains along the C&O Canal, the Paw Paw Tunnel is an engineering marvel with an eerie atmosphere. Inside, the temperature drops, water drips from the stone walls, and daylight quickly disappears into darkness. Local legends tell of spirits connected to the tunnel's difficult construction, adding another layer of mystery to this historic landmark. Bring a flashlight and experience one of the region's most atmospheric walks for yourself.
Hotel Gunter Basement
The Haunting Qualities: The historic Hotel Gunter in downtown Frostburg has a past that might surprise visitors. Hidden within the building is a former jail cell, a reminder of the hotel's unusual history. Over the years, stories of unexplained noises, cold spots, and shadowy figures have added to its mysterious reputation. Whether you're drawn to paranormal legends or fascinating local history, Hotel Gunter offers a glimpse into a lesser-known side of Frostburg's past.
Puccini’s Restaurant
Photo Source: Puccini Restaurant
The Haunting Qualities: Housed in a historic building dating to 1819, Puccini's Restaurant has a past that extends far beyond its dining room. Local history connects the property to the Battle of Folck's Mill during the Civil War, when the building reportedly served as a temporary hospital for wounded soldiers. Stories of mysterious footsteps, moving objects, and unexplained shadows have become part of its local lore. Today, visitors can enjoy a meal surrounded by centuries of history, with perhaps a ghost story or two on the side.
Emmanuel Episcopal Church
The Haunting Qualities: Beautiful architecture, centuries of history, and mysterious underground passages make Emmanuel Episcopal Church one of downtown Cumberland's most intriguing historic landmarks. Built on the site of Fort Cumberland, a significant military outpost during the French and Indian War, the church stands above surviving remnants of the fort's historic earthworks. The underground passages are also associated with the site's Underground Railroad history. Over the years, stories of mysterious footsteps, whispers, and unexplained sounds have added a haunting layer to this remarkable place. Whether you're drawn by history or mystery, the church offers a fascinating look beneath the surface of Cumberland's past.
Rose Hill Cemetery
The Haunting Qualities: Historic headstones, centuries-old stories, and the quiet atmosphere of Rose Hill Cemetery create a setting filled with mystery. The cemetery is the final resting place of generations of Allegany County residents, each with a story connected to the region's past. Local ghost stories and legends add to its intrigue, making it a fascinating place for those interested in history and the unexplained. Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully and appreciate the cemetery's historical significance.
C&O Canal Towpath
The Haunting Qualities: The C&O Canal Towpath has witnessed more than a century of history, from the difficult lives of canal workers and boat families to accidents, floods, and the eventual decline of canal transportation. Today, remnants of old lockhouses, stone structures, and isolated stretches of towpath create an atmosphere that feels almost frozen in time. Local folklore adds ghostly tales to the canal's history, making a walk along this historic waterway an adventure in both the past and the mysterious.
Gordon-Roberts House
The Haunting Qualities: Step inside one of Cumberland's beautiful Victorian-era homes, where history and mystery share the spotlight. Built in 1867, the Gordon-Roberts House offers a glimpse into life in the 19th century, complete with period furnishings and stories of the families who once called it home. Over the years, tales of unexplained sounds, cold spots, and ghostly encounters have contributed to the mansion's haunted reputation. Today, the historic house museum invites visitors to discover its fascinating past, whether they're searching for history or a hint of the supernatural.
St. Patrick Church
Photo Credit: Cody Steckman
The Haunting Qualities: Among the oldest Catholic parishes in Western Maryland, St. Patrick Church holds more than two centuries of local history—and one enduring legend. During the Civil War, Father Brennan, the parish priest, ministered to soldiers stationed in Cumberland. One of his most tragic duties was offering last rites to a young Union soldier, Francis Gillespie, executed near Rose Hill Cemetery in 1864 after a military court-martial. The story goes that Father Brennan promised to deliver tokens of farewell to Gillespie’s family but delayed fulfilling the task. That night, Brennan was said to have heard the echo of bootsteps in the rectory hallway. When he opened the door, the ghostly figure of the soldier stood before him, silently reminding the priest of his vow. For more than a century, parishioners have whispered about the restless spirit said to linger near the old rectory—an apparition bound by duty, devotion, and an unfulfilled promise.
Discover the Mysterious Side of Mountain Maryland
From historic churches and Victorian mansions to shadowy tunnels and centuries-old legends, Mountain Maryland is full of stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you believe in ghosts or simply appreciate a good mystery, these historic places offer a different way to experience the region's rich heritage.
As you explore, remember that many of these locations are active businesses, historic properties, or places of worship. Respect posted hours, property boundaries, and visitor guidelines. Some locations may offer guided tours or special access opportunities.
Ready for more fall adventures? Explore fall experiences in Mountain Maryland and discover why there's always another story waiting around the bend.
Tips & Considerations for Visiting Haunted Places
- Take a guided tour if possible — local historians often know the best spots, permission routes, and stories.
- Respect private property.
- Time of day matters — many reputed ghostly sightings occur at dusk, night, or in low light.
- Bring gear (if you’re into “ghost hunting”) — flashlight, camera, audio recorder, etc. But also use common sense (don’t explore unsafe structures).
- Talk to locals/a long-time residents — sometimes oral legends persist that aren’t in printed guides.
Halloween Events
Halloween is a spooky season here in Mountain Maryland, with events, parties, ghost tours and more. These celebrations and events will scare, delight, and maybe even cause some freights!