As the sun sets earlier this spring, eerie stories are resurfacing across New Jersey. If you’re driving after dark, residents say these 8 roads bring more than just poor lighting — they bring chills, strange sounds, and a deep feeling of unease. Drivers from Bergen to Sussex County say these roads are ones you’ll want to avoid after sunset.
Strange Sounds, Shadows, and Sudden Fog
Locals in New Jersey have long shared unsettling reports about these 8 roads. From flickering lights to ghostly figures in the woods, these roads have sparked countless stories and warnings.
- Many run near abandoned buildings, old cemeteries, or dense forests.
- Residents describe unexplained shadows, strange noises, and even sudden fog patches that appear out of nowhere.
- According to reports from NJ.com, drivers feel a heavy presence or the sensation of being watched.
- Some say their GPS devices glitch or their radios go fuzzy without warning.
Though local police have not confirmed any paranormal activity, they advise extra caution when driving these roads at night.
Where These Roads Are Located
These haunted roads are spread across several counties in New Jersey. Drivers from Essex, Bergen, Monmouth, Sussex, and Burlington Counties have shared their experiences:
- Clinton Road (West Milford) – Perhaps the most infamous, known for ghost stories and phantom trucks.
- Shades of Death Road (Warren County) – With a name like that, it’s drawn paranormal attention for years.
- Pleasant Mills Road (Batsto Village) – Surrounded by Pine Barrens and linked to Jersey Devil legends.
- Whippoorwill Valley Road (Middletown) – Dark, winding, and rumored to be haunted.
- Others include roads in Newton, Hackensack, and West Orange, all with their own chilling tales.
Why Officials Say Caution Is Needed
Aside from the eerie stories, local officials point out real safety concerns:
- Poor lighting, sharp curves, and narrow lanes increase risk at night.
- Some roads lack guardrails or have steep drop-offs into wooded areas.
- Weather changes quickly in certain regions, causing low visibility.
A Bergen County safety official told News 12 New Jersey, “Even if you don’t believe the ghost stories, these roads can still be dangerous. Drive slowly, and if you feel unsafe, turn around.”
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
- Avoid these roads after dark, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
- Use main highways or well-lit streets whenever possible.
- Stay alert for changes in visibility, and pull over if you feel uneasy.
- If you see suspicious activity, call local police to report it.
For a safer alternative, check your GPS for alternate routes or explore New Jersey’s best-lit roads and highways, which are more commuter-friendly.
Stay cautious during your nighttime drives — especially in the spring when fog and long shadows can add to the spooky feel.
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Original reporting from:
