Our region of the state is rich with historic destinations that are worth checking out. Some of these places are centuries old, so of course, some of them are rumored to be haunted by spirits from decades past. Originally established in the mid-19th century, The Groveland Hotel is considered the oldest hotel in Northern California…and it might just be the most haunted, as well. Considering its rich history, you might not be surprised to learn that this hotel has plenty of spooky legends surrounding it. Consider bringing a night light if you do end up spending the night here. You might find yourself needing it!
Groveland is a quaint community of just 600 residents located near Yosemite National Park. Full of historic charm, it doesn’t look like much has changed in this town over the past century. It’s even home to Northern California oldest and most haunted hotel—The Groveland Hotel.
The Groveland Hotel/Facebook
Originally built as a trading post in 1849, The Groveland Hotel has played many roles over the years. It was once a gambling house, saloon, ranger station, business offices, and even a Greyhound Bus Station. The hotel would become increasingly popular as tourists flocked to nearby Yosemite National Park.
The Groveland Hotel/Facebook
The historic hotel has had a variety of owners but was most recently purchased by Doug and Jenn Edwards in 2017. They gave the hotel a massive makeover but plenty of historic elements still remain, including the spirits that have lingered here for well over a century.
The Groveland Hotel/Facebook
The most famous ghost story surrounding The Groveland concerns a spirit that’s been dubbed “Lyle”. It’s widely believed that Lyle was one of the miners who worked in the Spring Gulch Mine. He resided in Room 15, and he never really left.
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He was found dead in the room in 1927, a box of dynamite lying nearby. He was known to be obsessively tidy when he was alive, and it seems he is still that way. Lyle has been known to clear the room’s dresser of guest’s cluttered items, especially women’s cosmetics.
The Groveland Hotel/Facebook
Additionally, water taps are known to randomly turn on and off throughout the hotel and door locks will mysteriously refuse to give in to keys for short periods of time.
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If you do decide to spend the night at The Groveland Hotel, you may consider bringing some ear plugs with you. Some guests have reported being awakened by unknown footsteps and even banging sounds on their door. Sleeping here sure isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s bound to become a night you remember forever!
The Groveland Hotel/Facebook
What do you think? Would you consider spending the night in this haunted hotel? I’m not sure I’d be brave enough! If you love exploring our state’s spooky destinations, be sure to check out this list of The 7 Most Haunted Places In Northern California.
The Groveland Hotel/Facebook
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