Haunted Ontario: Ghost Stories, Spooky Stops & Fall Adventures
From haunted historic buildings to eerie forest trails, discover Ontario’s spooky side — and a cozy place to escape to when the sun goes down.
There’s something about Ontario in the fall that feels a little magical. The changing leaves, misty mornings, quiet country roads, and crisp evenings make it the perfect season for a little mystery.
But beyond the beautiful autumn scenery, some of Ontario’s most charming small towns have a darker side. Historic homes with unexplained happenings, theatres rumoured to have permanent ghostly guests, and winding forest trails that take on an entirely different personality after dark.
Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal, a lover of local legends, or simply looking for a fun way to celebrate spooky season, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite eerie adventures near our CABINSCAPE locations.
And after a day of ghost hunting? There’s nothing quite like retreating to a cozy cabin tucked away in the woods.
LANARK COUNTY
Historic Streets, Haunted Houses & Ghostly Tales
With its centuries-old buildings, charming downtowns, and rich local history, Lanark County is full of stories worth uncovering. Some are fascinating. Others might just send a shiver down your spine.
Perth Museum – The Old Matheson House
📍 11 Gore St. E., Perth, ON
Behind the beautiful stone exterior of Perth’s historic Matheson House lies a collection of stories that go well beyond its original residents.
Once home to Senator Roderick Matheson and his family, this historic property is now the Perth Museum. But according to local lore, its history may not be the only thing lingering inside.
Over the years, tales of unexplained footsteps, mysterious sounds, and shadowy figures have become part of the house’s folklore.
Whether you’re visiting for its fascinating history or hoping for a glimpse of something supernatural, it’s an intriguing stop in one of Ontario’s prettiest small towns.
Perth Ghost Walk
📍 11 Gore St. E., Perth, ON
If there’s one way to experience Perth after dark, this might be it.
Follow historian Susan Code McDougall through the town’s historic streets as she shares stories of mysterious encounters, local legends, and buildings with supposedly ghostly residents.
The guided evening walk combines a little history, a little mystery, and plenty of atmospheric storytelling.
It’s the perfect activity for those who love a good ghost story without needing to come face-to-face with an actual ghost.
2026 dates: October 21, 22, 28 and 29, at 7 PM.
Heritage House Museum
📍 11 Old Slys Rd, Smiths Falls, ON
Some houses have character. Others have a little more than that.
Built in 1863, the Heritage House Museum offers a glimpse into Victorian life, complete with beautifully preserved period rooms and plenty of stories from the past.
It’s also become a destination for those curious about the supernatural.
During the Halloween season, the museum hosts ghost tours and haunted experiences, inviting guests to explore its historic rooms and hear tales of local paranormal encounters.
It’s an especially fitting setting for a spooky evening, where candlelight and old-world charm make even the smallest creak seem suspicious.
2026 Haunted Heritage House dates: October 23 and 24 are still upcoming.
Your cozy escape awaits: After exploring Lanark County’s haunted history, trade ghost stories for fireside conversations and settle into one of our secluded cabins surrounded by nature.
HALIBURTON HIGHLANDS
Where the Woods Have Stories of Their Own
There’s something wonderfully mysterious about the Haliburton Highlands in autumn. Dense forests, winding roads, and quiet lakes create the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to listen just a little closer.
And when the sun sets? Things get even more interesting.
Haliburton Highlands Museum – Reid House
📍 66 Museum Road, Haliburton, ON
Tucked away in Glebe Park, Reid House is a historic home with an intriguing past.
Built in 1882, the house served as the Reid family residence for generations before becoming part of the Haliburton Highlands Museum.
Today, the carefully preserved rooms offer visitors a glimpse of life in another era.
But local ghost stories suggest that some of the home’s former occupants may not have entirely moved on.
Tales of mysterious figures and unexplained encounters have added an extra layer of intrigue to this already fascinating piece of local history.
Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, wandering through an old home filled with reminders of the past has a way of sparking the imagination.
Haunted Halloween Forest at Winterdance
📍 1888 Hodgson Road, Haliburton, ON
Think a walk through the woods sounds relaxing? Think again.
Every October, Winterdance transforms its wilderness trails into a haunting experience filled with mysterious characters, eerie scenes, and unexpected surprises.
Armed with little more than your courage, you’ll follow a lantern-lit trail through the forest, where the darkness is part of the experience and you never quite know what’s waiting around the next bend.
With live actors and an atmosphere that feels straight out of a scary movie, this one’s for visitors who like their Halloween adventures with a proper dose of fright.
2026 details: Friday and Saturday evenings throughout October, from 7:30–9:30 PM. Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Your cozy escape awaits: The only thing better than a spooky adventure in the woods? Returning to your CABINSCAPE cabin, warming up, and enjoying the quieter side of the forest.
KAWARTHA LAKES & SURROUNDING AREA
Small-Town Legends & Halloween Adventures
Charming main streets, historic landmarks, and beautiful countryside might be what first draws visitors to the Kawarthas. But look a little closer and you’ll discover some wonderfully strange stories hiding in plain sight.
Screaming Heads — A Strange Ontario Road Trip
📍 981 Midlothian Rd, Burk’s Falls, ON
Not every spooky destination needs a ghost story.
Hidden away near Burk’s Falls is one of Ontario’s most unusual outdoor art installations: Screaming Heads.
Created by artist Peter Camani, the property features enormous, haunting sculptures rising from the landscape, creating a surreal scene that feels like something from another world.
It’s weird, wonderful, and just unsettling enough to earn a place on any lover of the unusual’s road-trip list.
This one is a longer detour rather than a nearby Kawarthas attraction, but it makes an unforgettable stop for travellers exploring further north.
Please note: The sculptures are located on private property. Respect posted signs, gates, and access restrictions.
Academy Theatre
📍 2 Lindsay St S, Lindsay, ON
Every good theatre has a little drama. At Lindsay’s historic Academy Theatre, some believe that drama continues long after the final curtain.
The theatre is home to one of the area’s best-known local ghost stories, centred around a spirit affectionately called Mary.
According to legend, Mary was once associated with the theatre and never quite left. Tales of flickering lights, mysteriously moving objects, and unexplained activity have become part of the building’s colourful folklore.
Some even say she has a favourite seat.
Whether it’s simply an entertaining local legend or something more, the Academy Theatre offers plenty of history and character for curious visitors.
And what better excuse to catch a show?
Lang Pioneer Village — Spooky All Hallows’ Eve
📍104 Lang Road Keene, ON
Looking for something a little less frightening and a lot more festive?
Step back in time at Lang Pioneer Village, where historic buildings and old-fashioned Halloween traditions come together for a wonderfully spooky experience.
During the annual Spooky All Hallows’ Eve celebration, the village comes alive with ghostly graveyards, witches’ lairs, fortune telling, and seasonal activities.
It’s a chance to learn about the origins of Halloween, explore a beautifully preserved historic village, and make some fun fall memories along the way.
Perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone who prefers their spooky season with a side of sweet treats.
2026 dates: October 23 and 24, from 6–9 PM.
Your cozy escape awaits: Spend the day chasing local legends, then slow things down with a peaceful evening overlooking the stunning quarry lake at our Kawartha cabins.
CALABOGIE & THE OTTAWA VALLEY
Folklore, Old Towns & Things That Go Bump in the Night
The Ottawa Valley is full of winding country roads, historic communities, and stories passed down through generations.
For those who love a little mystery, it’s the perfect region to explore when autumn settles in.
Buck Hill Road — The Legend of the Lost Girl
📍 Near Killaloe, Ontario
Some ghost stories are so deeply rooted in local folklore that they’ve become part of a place’s identity.
Buck Hill Road is one of them.
According to a long-standing local legend, a father and daughter once lived near the bottom of the hill. One evening, the family’s dog disappeared into the darkness, and the young girl followed.
She never returned.
The story goes that her father spent years searching for her, and some believe his spirit continues the search to this day.
Over time, the tale has made Buck Hill Road a well-known piece of Ottawa Valley paranormal folklore.
Whether you believe the legend or simply enjoy a chilling story, it’s a reminder that some of the region’s most memorable mysteries are found far beyond its historic buildings.
This is a local legend rather than a managed attraction. Visitors should respect residents, private property, and local road conditions.
Almonte — Stories Behind the Historic Streets
📍 Downtown Almonte, ON
With its beautiful heritage buildings, old stone mills, and picturesque streets, Almonte is the kind of town that feels almost frozen in time.
And like many historic communities, it has its fair share of local legends.
Wander through the old town and it’s easy to imagine the stories that have unfolded behind its centuries-old doors.
Seasonal haunted walks have previously brought some of these tales to life, offering a fascinating look at the town’s past through a spookier lens.
Even without a guided tour, Almonte makes a lovely autumn stop for anyone who enjoys charming small towns, historic architecture, and a touch of mystery.
Check local event listings for current guided-walk availability.
Your cozy escape awaits: After a day exploring the Ottawa Valley’s eerie legends, make your way back to your Calabogie cabin, where a quiet evening surrounded by towering trees awaits.
THE PERFECT ENDING TO A SPOOKY DAY
A Little Fright. A Lot of Cozy.
There’s something especially satisfying about a day spent exploring the mysterious side of Ontario, followed by an evening tucked away in a warm and welcoming cabin.
Maybe it’s the contrast between the thrill of a ghost walk and the quiet of the forest. Maybe it’s the crisp autumn air, the sound of leaves underfoot, or the chance to trade spooky stories beneath a sky full of stars. Or maybe it’s simply the magic of getting away from it all. However you like to celebrate the season, there’s no shortage of ways to experience a little Halloween adventure near our cabins.
So pack your coziest layers, bring your favourite people, and get ready to discover a different side of Ontario this fall. Just remember — when you hear something rustling outside your cabin, it’s probably only the wind.
…Probably!
READY FOR YOUR LITTLE GREAT ESCAPE?
Planning an outing? Seasonal events, tour schedules, and admission details may change. We recommend confirming directly with each attraction before heading out.
