A Hiker’s Guide to Haunted Forests by Eleanor Rodgers

Only take the train if you plan on coming back.

You will often think you can see someone at the end of the path. You can, but it’s important that you turn around and don’t look back. If you think you hear an owl, take the next left. Do not try and search for the owl. It doesn’t want to be seen.

You may come across an old man chopping wood. He wears an oversized coat that falls past his feet and drags up the leaves when he walks. He will have a scar that traces his jawline and dives down past his collar. The wind will pick up if he is nearby. Sometimes, when it’s dark and the shadows have retreated, he rests on an old tree stump and hums. Sometimes he sings. Sometimes he murmurs to himself. Don’t talk to this old man chopping wood, he can’t see you.

The trees will whisper, try not to listen.

The path you took will not be there later.

There will be herds of deer, with snowy complexion and translucent bodies. These deer will appear gentle and tame, so it is important to keep in mind that they are not prey; they are predators. When the deer group and rustle past, they will begin to stare as one. Stare back and stay very still. Don’t blink. Slowly lower your head. If they are gone when you look back up, you are safe.

Try not to leave any footprints. The forest is very fragile. Each marsh is an ecosystem of decay and each swamp a graveyard of what thrives.

If the deer are still staring, be prepared to feed the forest.

If you’re lucky enough to spot a Church in the distance, it’s best not to approach. Take a moment to admire the misty fog rising from its chimney and circling the stalagmite spires that pierce through the treetops. Then, carry on. If you find yourself heading towards the church, close enough to see the gravestones in the garden, stand by the one with your name on and pray that it is occupied.

Make sure to take plenty of breaks, but not enough for her to catch up to you.

You might notice that your shadow will not always be there. Try not to worry, it should come back.

When the forest is ready for you to leave, it will start to rain. You have until it stops raining.

If you return home safely and your shadow is still missing, you did not return safely.
Go back. Take the train.

by Eleanor Rodgers