The Pacific Northwest has seen its share of boom and bust. Places that were once thriving communities now sit as dust-gathering relics. Former military outposts, once stalwarts of defense against foreign invasion, now serve as parks and tourist attractions. Mental institutions, which saw their own horror stories while they were in use, now sit in disrepair.

We scoured the internet looking for the coolest and creepiest places the region had to offer. Take a look through the slideshow below for some inspiration to get out and explore.

If you plan to explore any of these places, however, beware that not all of them are on public property and you could face a trespassing charge if you break the law.

-- Kale Williams

kwilliams@oregonian.com

503-294-4048