Nothing evokes the essence of a horror film quite like a misadventure during a hike leading to an eerie, deserted town hidden deep within the woods. The remnants of a once vibrant life linger in the air, accompanied by the spine-tingling notion that some of the former residents may not have truly departed—perhaps they’re silently observing. For enthusiasts of thrills and chills, North Carolina offers a selection of abandoned towns that stand as more than mere memories, beckoning for a distinctive day trip experience.
Lost Cove
Situated on the TN/NC border in Yancey County, Lost Cove stands as an unsettling abandoned mountain town. Its economic landscape was dominated by moonshining, but a boundary dispute prompted numerous residents to depart in search of fresh starts in more accessible locations. The remaining few held on until 1958, leaving behind Lost Cove, a haunting place marked by decaying houses, buildings, and even a car.
Mortimer
Once a flourishing mill town, Mortimer faced abandonment when an epic flood forced surviving residents to desert their homes. Today, the skeletal remnants of buildings, including the old mill, machines, and foundations, echo the life that once thrived in Caldwell County.
Proctor
Nestled in Swain County on Hazel Creek, Proctor faced near obliteration due to the creation of Fontana Lake. The bustling mill town was submerged to generate electricity, and today, it retains notoriety for a (likely fabricated) image of a 700-pound snake supposedly pulled from Lake Proctor. Despite any Photoshop-induced fears, Proctor offers an eerie stroll through the woods, revealing brick foundations and haunting vestiges, as if the people were reluctant to leave.
Henry River Mill Village
Known to some as Hunger Games’ District 12, Henry River is a ghost town reminiscent of an industrial past. After the mill’s closure in the 1960s and a subsequent fire in 1977, residents left, rendering the town abandoned. Presently, former mill houses remain, earning the village a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can embark on a Hunger Games walking tour or explore on their own.
Judson
Judson’s existence becomes apparent only when Fontana Lake reaches an extremely low level. Submerged due to the creation of Fontana Dam, this town, like others on the list, conceals foundations, remnants, and echoes of life beneath its waters.
Cataloochee
While now renowned for its scenic beauty and recreational activities, Cataloochee conceals remnants, despair, and remains deep within its wilderness. Once a thriving Cherokee hunting ground turned pilgrim settlement, the town faced challenges during the Civil War, leading to a forced exodus of residents. Despite subsequent attempts to establish prosperity, Cataloochee succumbed to logging laws in the early ’90s, compelling the few remaining residents to relocate. Today, the area stands as a national park, resonating with the echoes of a once-prosperous community.
Brunswick Town
A thriving Colonial Town, Brunswick Town housed the first Royal Governor and served as a bustling trading port. However, attacks during the Revolutionary War forced the remaining residents to flee, almost destroying the town. Used during the Civil War, visible battle damage remains on the Church and other structures. Though more captivating than eerie, Brunswick Town holds a unique energy, attracting visitors who appreciate its historical ruins—some even opting for it as a distinctive wedding venue. This particular destination on the list is relatively less intimidating for solo exploration.
Conclusion
North Carolina’s historical landscape is dotted with abandoned ghost towns, each offering a unique glimpse into the past. From Wild West-themed parks to colonial settlements and submerged communities, these sites provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in history. Each ghost town has its own tale, making them essential destinations for those fascinated by the enigmas of bygone eras.