The Catskill Mountains of New York State are renowned for their breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and rich history. But beneath the surface of this picturesque region lies a hidden world of ghostly tales and unexplained phenomena. From grand hotels to abandoned farms, from historic forts to legendary bridges, the Catskills are home to a surprising number of haunted locations, each with its own chilling story to tell. So, grab your hiking boots, your ghost hunting gear, and a healthy dose of courage as we embark on a journey through 10 of the most haunted spots in the Catskills and its surrounding areas.

1. The Lady of Andes (Andes, NY)

• The Andes Hotel Fire (date unknown but likely late 19th or early 20th century): A devastating fire consumed the grand Andes Hotel, claiming the life of a young woman who was deeply in love. Her fiancé also perished in the blaze.
• Reported Activity: Her heartbroken spirit is said to haunt the former site of the hotel, searching for her lost love. She’s been seen gliding down the staircase, gazing out the windows, and even waltzing in the old ballroom.

2. The Undersheriff (Andes, NY)

• The Andes Jail (built in 1850s): This historic jail once held prisoners from the surrounding area. An Undersheriff was tragically killed in the line of duty within its walls.
• Reported Activity: The Undersheriff’s ghost is said to haunt the old jail, his footsteps echoing through the empty corridors at night.

3. Octagon Farm (Walton, NY)

• The Bride’s Fatal Fall (date unknown but likely 19th century): A young bride, on her way to her wedding at the octagon-shaped farmhouse, was thrown from her horse and killed.
• Reported Activity: Every night, the tragic scene replays itself, with the spectral figures of the bride and horse reenacting the accident.

4. Stone Arch Bridge (Kenoza Lake, NY)

• The Hex Murder of George Markert (1892): George Markert was brutally murdered on the bridge, believed to be the victim of a hex or curse.
• Reported Activity: Markert’s spirit is said to linger at the bridge, with visitors reporting unexplained noises, cold spots, and even apparitions.

5. Woodchuck Lodge (Roxbury, NY)

• John Burroughs’ Final Home (1910-1921): The renowned naturalist and writer spent his final years at Woodchuck Lodge, surrounded by the nature he loved.
• Reported Activity: While not traditionally “haunted,” the lodge and nearby Burroughs Memorial Field have a unique atmosphere. Some sense the presence of Burroughs, drawn to the place where he found peace and inspiration.

6. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (Cooperstown, NY)

• A Home for Baseball Legends (established 1939): This museum celebrates the history of baseball and honors its greatest players.
• Reported Activity: The sounds of the game, ghostly apparitions of players, and unexplained cold spots suggest that some of baseball’s legends might still be hanging around.

7. The Otesaga Resort Hotel (Cooperstown, NY)

• A Grand Hotel with a Lively Past (built in 1909): This historic hotel has seen its share of celebrations, gatherings, and perhaps even tragedies.
• Reported Activity: Guests report hearing children laughing and playing on the third floor and strange voices in the “Glimmerglass Room.”

8. Bull’s Head Inn (Cobleskill, NY)

• From Stagecoach Stop to Private Residence (built in 1802): This building has served as both a bustling inn and a family home, witnessing over two centuries of human activity.
• Reported Activity: While specific ghost stories are scarce, the building’s age and history suggest the potential for residual energy and lingering spirits.

9. The Shanley Hotel (Napanoch, NY)

• A History of Tragedy and Intrigue (built in 1845): This hotel has a long and colorful past, including periods as a boarding house, a speakeasy, and even a brothel. It has also witnessed accidents, suicides, and a murder.
• Reported Activity: Guests and investigators report apparitions, voices, cold spots, and even physical interactions with several distinct spirits, including the original owner and a playful cat.

10. Old Stone Fort (Schoharie, NY)

• Witness to War and Conflict (built in 1772): This fortified church played a role in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, witnessing fear, desperation, and possibly bloodshed.
• Reported Activity: Unexplained noises, cold spots, and apparitions of soldiers suggest that the fort’s past might still be present.

As you venture out to explore these haunted locations, remember to approach each site with respect for its history and the potential presence of unseen forces. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or simply curious about the unknown, the Catskills offer a unique opportunity to connect with the past and perhaps even glimpse the world beyond the veil. So, keep your senses open, your mind curious, and your camera ready. You never know what you might encounter on your haunted history hike through the Catskills.