For Southern Oregonians looking for a memorable Halloween getaway, a drive from Grants Pass to the northeastern corner of the state offers something both historic and chilling. Nestled near La Grande, the Lodge at Hot Lake Springs stands as Oregon’s most haunted hotel, a century-old property that blends history, mystery, and relaxation into one unforgettable staycation.
The journey from Grants Pass to Hot Lake Springs is a scenic trek across the heart of Oregon. Travelers wind through the high desert, pass pine forests and river valleys, and eventually reach the rolling hills of Union County. The drive itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of small towns, autumn foliage, and wide open sky. By the time the lodge comes into view, the historic building and rising steam from its geothermal springs already set an eerie but inviting tone.
Originally built in the early 1900s, the lodge began as a luxury resort centered on the therapeutic power of the hot springs. Over time, it transformed into a sanatorium, hospital, and rest home for weary travelers and recovering patients. These many lives and deaths within its walls have helped shape its haunted reputation. Local lore speaks of footsteps echoing down hallways, whispers in unoccupied rooms, and guests who have felt an unexplained presence late at night.
Today, the lodge has been restored into a peaceful yet mysterious retreat. Each room blends rustic design with historic charm, offering views of the surrounding hills and the steaming pools that give the area its name. Visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties, enjoy a quiet evening by the fireplace, or explore the grounds while imagining the stories that have unfolded there over the past century.
A stay at the Lodge at Hot Lake Springs during Halloween adds an extra layer of intrigue. The crisp fall air, the sound of the wind across the open plain, and the subtle sense that history lingers just beyond the veil create an atmosphere unlike any other destination in Oregon. Guests who stay overnight often describe the experience as peaceful and rejuvenating, even if they feel the occasional chill that cannot be blamed entirely on the weather.
For travelers from Grants Pass, this haunted staycation combines the thrill of adventure with the comfort of a local road trip. There is no need to cross state lines to find a true ghost story. The Lodge at Hot Lake Springs provides the perfect mix of Oregon history, geothermal wonder, and Halloween spirit. Whether one comes seeking rest, romance, or a brush with the unknown, this haunted destination ensures that the trip will be remembered long after the last leaf has fallen and the lights go out for the night.