Did you know that there’s a haunted forest in Southern California? Hiding in Altadena in Los Angeles, not far from Pasadena, you’ll find a spooky stretch of land in the Angeles National Forest that has earned its reputation for being one of the most haunted destinations in SoCal. With abandoned ruins and reports of all kinds of spooky activity, this is a must-visit around Halloween. Let’s take a closer look at the haunted forest near Pasadena.

This is a SoCal destination that's known by many names: Haunted Forest, Enchanted Forest, Los Flores Canyon and Cobb Estate. We'll be referring to it by the latter name throughout this article.
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The towering gate that marks the entrance to the Cobb Estate looks like something right out of a scary movie. Although this shot is from a daytime hike, just imagine how menacing it looks after dark.
Ian McLaughlin / Google Reviews
In the early 1900s this area of land was originally owned by Charles Cobb, who made his mark as a lumber magnate and built a sprawling mansion for his family. After his death, this land changed hands many times before the mansion and the land fell into disrepair; the mansion was eventually demolished in 1959. Finally, in 1967, the land was deeded to the United States Forest Service as a free growth arboretum.
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Today, this short brick wall and the original steps that led to the estate are the only remains of the sprawling Cobb Manor. You'll pass this spot shortly after you pass through the gate.

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So now that you know a brief history about this spot, why do they say this forest is haunted?
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There are widespread claims of hearing loud screams and unexplained laughter coming from this forest late at night, leading some to believe this is a witches' forest in Los Angeles. Other folks have reported seeing strange lights moving up and down the hill deep inside the forest when there was no one else around. Still other claims include sensations of being touched and also being watched.
julio poggio / Google Reviews
Whether or not you believe in ghost stories, that's enough to make your skin crawl. Are you brave enough to step inside this forbidding forest? Especially after dark?
Guillermo Sanchez / Google Reviews
To get to the Cobb Estate, head to Lake Avenue and East Loma Alta Drive in Altadena. Street parking is free, but make sure to pay attention to the signage as there are parking restrictions along the street. If you choose to go at night, make sure to bring a flashlight as this is a very dark and dangerous trail that is challenging to navigate if you can't see where you are going. Be very careful taking this forest trail. And make sure not to go alone as this haunted forest in California is best experienced with a group. For a closer look, take the virtual tour:

Learn more about the other trails near the Cobb Estate. Have you ever been up to the Cobb Estate? Did you hear any eerie sounds or see any ghostly sightings that gave you a fright? If you love the spooky side of SoCal, try this other haunted hike in Southern California.

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Haunted Places In Southern California

Meghan Byers | September 03, 2022

What are the most haunted places in Southern California?

Some of the most haunted places in SoCal include:

  • Lake Morena
  • Padre Hotel in Bakersfield
  • Pantages Theatre

 

With glittering blue waters and a peaceful setting, you might not expect Lake Morena to be the most haunted lake in Southern California. But this seemingly peaceful lake has left many visitors with sinister stories of apparitions and other chilling experiences – visit for yourself and stay the night if you dare.

Speaking of staying the night, only the truly brave should book a room at the highly haunted Padre Hotel in Bakersfield. And if you love some ghostly theatrics, catch a show at Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre, which is rumored to be haunted by at least three spirits.

Are there any haunted cemeteries in Southern California?

The Julian Pioneer Cemetery is one supposedly haunted cemetery in SoCal, located in Julian.

From its storied past to the archway that looks like something out of a horror movie, it’s a great spot to visit for would-be ghost hunters. Meanwhile, not far from Whaley House, which is infamous for its eerie ghost stories, you’ll find El Campo Santo Cemetery. This small but beautiful cemetery is a state historical landmark, founded in 1849. Visitors have claimed to have experienced all sorts of strange happenings while visiting this cemetery, from cars not starting to flashing lights and more.

What are some other spooky places in Southern California?

Some other haunted places in SoCal include:

  • Calico Ghost Town
  • The Cauldron Spirits and Brews

 

Step back into the past at Calico Ghost Town in Yermo, where you’ll find the remains of a once-booming silver mining town that was abandoned in the late 1800s. The town is believed to be haunted, and you can even take a ghost tour to learn all about the urban legends of eerie goings-on at Calico Ghost Town.

If you’re looking for a truly unique and spooky pub experience, grab a seat at The Cauldron Spirits and Brews in Buena Park. This witch-themed bar and restaurant serves up delicious drinks and comfort food in a dark and cozy setting full of eclectic antiques and haunting decor. And if you’d like to make a day of exploring some creepy haunts, try this spooky Southern California road trip.

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Cobb Estate Trailhead, 3302 Lake Ave, Altadena, CA 91001, USA