The Haunted Tunnel Near Pittsburgh Is Terrifying

Do you believe in ghosts? Or, do you just roll your eyes when you hear about another hotel, home, or museum that is haunted by the ghosts of the past? Whichever camp you fall in, you’ll probably get a chill when you read about the haunted tunnel near Pittsburgh that’s said to have been haunted since the 1800s.

Pittsburgh claims its fair share of haunted spots. But, today we’re heading to an inconspicuous tunnel — the Horseshoe Curve Tunnel — not too far from the famous Horseshoe Curve in Altoona. In this tunnel is where the spirit of an Irishwoman is said to have lingered since the late 1800s.

Wikimedia Commons/Chris Light

Locals debate why the woman’s spirit remains in the tunnel. However, most believe one of two theories. The despondent woman in a flowing white dress, in one version, was said to be waiting outside of the tunnel for her love to arrive after a day on the job.

Flickr/Ally J.

But, before he arrived, so goes the version, she was brutally murdered, remaining in the tunnel to this day.

Flickr/Nicholas Raymond

In the other version, her love has tragically died — perhaps at the hands of a murderer — and she simply remains in the tunnel, still waiting for her beau to return.

Flickr/The Real Cloud2013

Countless drivers have terrifying tales of paranormal encounters as they drive through the tunnel, particularly on the Altoona side. Drivers have told of smelling sulfur and struggling to breathe as they travel through the tunnel and just before the Irishwoman in white appears.

Flickr/Joanne C. Sullivan

Still others talk of stopping in the middle of the tunnel. And, after flashing their lights and honking their horn three times, they hear children giggling as shadows run past. (Never stop in the middle of the tunnel. It is extremely dangerous for both you and other drivers.)

Flickr/Barry Lenard

Keep an eye out for a towering spruce tree as you exit the tunnel. Do you see the image of the lady in the white dress by the tree?

Flickr/Phil and Jo Schiffbauer

Finally, when you arrive at your destination, get out of your car and check the windows. Some travelers tell of handprints — perhaps from the anguished Irishwoman — on their windows after emerging from the tunnel.

Flickr/Eric Brochu

What’s your take on this haunted tunnel near Pittsburgh? Do you think it’s haunted? Or, do you just think it’s a local legend and nothing more? Join the conversation in the comments! Then, click here to read about the most haunted street in Pittsburgh.