Now that we’ve officially entered 2018, it’s time to start scratching off those New Year’s resolutions. If exploring new destinations in SoCal is at the top of your list, you’ll want to check out this little-known hike in SoCal that will lead you to an unexpected destination that’s definitely on the spooky side. You’ll need some sturdy shoes for this adventure and maybe even a walking stick for this short but rewarding hike.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is best known for its scenic hikes, rugged surroundings, and panoramic views that are positively breathtaking.
all trails/james d klein
If you’ve hiked this area before, you most likely have a favorite trail you like to take. Instead of taking your usual route on your next outing to this state park, check out this spooky trail that you’ve most likely never experienced before.
tripadvisor/whisperwinds Ghost Mountain Trail to Yaquitepec is a moderate 1.2 mile hike that will lead you to the top of Ghost Mountain where you’ll have a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
As you look out at the land, don’t be surprised to spot something that will make you look twice.
flickr/TJ from AZ
At first glance, it may appear as a pile of junk and garbage scattered along the land. But once you take a closer look, you’ll see that these are the remains of a former house that has been abandoned for decades.
tripadvisor/whisper winds
all trails/ron montana
The Marshall South house – a small adobe that dates back to the 1930s –was the home of the South family, an artistic and eccentric bunch, who settled high up in these mountains while attempting to live off the land.
flickr/djfrantic
flickr/slworking2
When living alone up in the mountains became too challenging, the South family abandoned their home. It has been destroyed by the elements over the years.
all trails/james d klein
Near the site you’ll even spot items of furniture, such as this old rusted out bed frame that sits alone on the land. Just one look at these things is enough to turn this trail into a spooky hike.
flickr/djfrantic
Flickr/ slworking
A bird’s eye view of the surrounding land shows a hauntingly beautiful glimpse of all that remains of the Marshall South Home, which can be viewed from Ghost Mountain Trail.
flickr/slworking2
Did you have any idea this spooky trail in SoCal even existed? If you’d like to check it out for yourself, you can find Ghost Mountain Trail at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
all trails/james d klein
tripadvisor/whisperwinds
Ghost Mountain Trail to Yaquitepec is a moderate 1.2 mile hike that will lead you to the top of Ghost Mountain where you’ll have a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
flickr/TJ from AZ
tripadvisor/whisper winds
all trails/ron montana
flickr/djfrantic
flickr/slworking2
Flickr/ slworking
If you’re looking to add a few more adventures to your list, here are 10 places to see in SoCal that are way out in the boonies but so worth the drive.
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