The mystery of Spook Hill has fascinated generations. Cars parked at the bottom of the hill will defy gravity and seemingly roll uphill. This is a public road, so visit anytime.
Lake Wales is known for its citrus groves, charming downtown, and iconic Singing Tower; however, the “Crown Jewel of the Ridge” also has an eerie side.
Get Your Chills on Spook Hill!
What would you say if I told you your car could defy gravity and roll up hill alone? Well, it can at Spook Hill! The Hill in Lake Wales, Florida, is a magnetic hill or “gravity hill.” Gravity hills can be found all over the world, and continue to spur folklore and curiosity as cars appear to roll up hill when placed in neutral. Not only is it one of the country’s oldest known gravity hills, it is also the only known magnetic hill in the state of Florida. In April of 2019, Spook Hill was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Learn about the Legend
Legend has it that a giant alligator was harassing a Native American tribe in the area. They sent their warrior chief to fend off the beast. Following his brave battle to the death, the chief was buried on the north side of the hill. Years later, pioneers hauling goods from the army trail, noticed that their horses strained at the foot of the ridge, even though it appeared to be going downhill. This eerie occurrence is why they started to call this area Spook Hill.
Is the warrior chief and the alligator continuing their battle in the afterlife? Or is it a mere optical illusion? The only way to know for sure is to try it for yourself!