In this episode of Haunted Hangout, we’re taking a stroll into the shadows, deep into the world’s most mysterious and spine-chilling forests. From Japan’s Aokigahara to California’s Elfin Forest and Romania’s Hoia Baciu, we explore the haunted history and ghostly legends rooted in these wooded realms. But the trees are hiding more than just spirits — we also dive into the legends of forest-dwelling cryptids like Bigfoot, the Hidebehind, and the Wampus Cat. And if that’s not enough to keep you on the trail, we venture into unsettling phenomena like the Alaska Triangle disappearances, mysterious staircases in the woods, and the unexplained Brown Mountain lights. Whether you’re a folklore fanatic or just here for the forest chills, this episode is packed with eerie tales, strange sightings, and that cozy-creepy vibe you know and love.
Got a spooky story of your own? Send it to hauntedhangoutpodcast13@gmail.com—we might feature it in a future episode!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram and TikTok!
This episode was written and edited by Liz Silva. Theme song by High Street Music.
Episode Sources:
Why is Japan's Aokigahara Forest Called the 'Suicide Forest'? by Dave Roos
Aokigahara (Suicide Forest) | ghosts.fandom.com
Exploring Elfin Forest: Myths and Paranormal Legends by Jeff O’Connor
Legend of Bigfoot | mil.wa.gov
The Hidebehind | astonishinglegends.com
Hidebehind | abookofcreatures.com
The Wampus Cat Myth Explained: Origins and Sightings by Desiree Bowie
More people disappear in the Alaska Triangle than anywhere else by Mike Richard and Sam Schild
Staircases to the Neverwhere? | mysterynibbles.substack.com
People Are Going MISSING After Finding Stairs In The Woods by Jessii Vee (YouTube video)
Stairs To Nowhere: When Creepypasta Becomes Urban Legend by | everythinggp.com
The Mysterious Brown Mountain Lights | criticalcountry.medium.com
You can find our sources for Hoia Baciu in the Episode 3 show notes.
