In York County Pennsylvania, there is an urban legend that entails the Seven Gates of Hell. These are physical gates that appear to the human eye as you pass through and discover each one. Legend has it, anyone who reached the fifth gate was never seen again. It’s said to be in the wooded area off of Trout Run in the northwestern part of Hellam Township in York County, Pennsylvania. There are many different rumors of the seven gates of hell, including one about an asylum where people were trapped and killed.

The Most Popular Version of the Seven Gates of Hell Urban Legend…

The urban legend of the seven gates of hell in York County takes many different forms and variations. One version, according to Roadtrippers, is about a mental institution that used to be located in Hellam Township, Pennsylvania. The mental asylum was isolated from the rest of the public because it housed “such insane” patients. Then one day, back in the 1800s, a fire started and consumed many of the patients. Some patients escaped but were beaten to death when found. Legend has it, the gates were put up by the local search party to trap any remaining patients of the mental asylum.

Another version, stated by DrivinVibin, of the story does not involve a mental asylum, yet instead, a doctor who lived on the property. He built the gates himself to keep any trespassers from entering his property.

What Both Stories Can Agree On…

Both versions of the Seven Gates of Hell stories agree that anyone who passes through the fifth gate will never be seen again. They also both say that only the first gate can be seen during the day, but the other six only become visible at night. If you pass all seven gates of hell, you go directly to hell.

Where Are The Seven Gates of Hell Located?

The Seven Gates of Hell are located in York County, Pennsylvania in Hellam Township. It’s said that the first gate, which is the only gate out of all seven that can be seen during the daytime, is located in a wooded area along Trout Run Road. The drive to York County Pennsylvania from Philadelphia is just under two hours long. We do not recommend or advise people to visit the seven gates of hell, not only because of the malicious urban legend but because the grounds are marked as private and you would be trespassing by entering the area.

Trout Run Seven Gates of Hell Location


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10 Best Amusement Parks in America

America doesn’t lack for having the best amusement parks. Whether you’re a daredevil and want to ride the tallest, scariest roller coasters in the world or prefer just eating park food, a day at the park can be a super fun experience.

One great thing about theme parks is that you can usually find one within driving distance. This makes amusement parks a reasonable choice for a family vacation or weekend giveaway, especially if money is an issue. Amusement parks are also great for capturing memories for kids. When I was a child, my family took me to several parks in Michigan, California, Ohio and Florida, so I have great memories from those trips.

The best theme parks also have convenient lodging nearby, making the trip truly seamless. That’s not to mention the awesome water parks that are often attached to today’s theme parks. Also, even though theme parks are meant for kids, it’s obvious that adults can have just as much fun at them, too.

Read on for our list of the 10 best amusement parks in America, from Cedar Point to Hersheypark. All of these are famous for their attractions, food and more. What’s your favorite? Reach out to us on social media and let us know.

  • 10. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

    Dollywood is a favorite that’s located in the Great Smokey Mountain area. Of course, it’s named after the one and only Dolly Parton. If you’re a country music fan, this is a must-see stop. Even if you aren’t a huge country music listener, it’s a great, traditional amusement park.

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  • 9. Kings Island, Mason, Ohio

    Kings Island Theme Park is a little bit off the radar, but it’s a great park. It’s known for not only its amusement park but also its fantastic water park. Kings Island features a range of coasters, Planet Snoopy for the kids and more.

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  • 8. Legoland, Carlsbad, California

    Legoland is simply legendary. Whoever had the idea to make an entire amusement park dedicated to Legos is a genius. The amusement park offers fun rides, live entertainment and more. You’ll find a Legoland Water Park, too.

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  • 7. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Virginia

    Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of those parks that you just hear about a lot. I feel like I’ve been hearing about it since I was a little kid, but I’ve never been there. Busch Gardens is known for being extremely beautiful and scenic, which is rare for an amusement park.

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    Visit us and experience our animal attractions, exhibits and educational series, with spectacular rides and attractions happening daily. Visit your nearest Busch Gardens theme park in Tampa Bay, Florida and Williamsburg, Virginia.

  • 6. Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California

    Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, is another spot that I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. When I was a kid, my family took me to California to see my aunt, and we went to not only Disneyland but also Knott’s Berry Farm. The amusement park has more than 165 rides, attractions and more. They also have fun holiday and Halloween events.

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  • 5. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California (and in many other states)

    Six Flags Magic Mountain is another huge name when it comes to parks. The spot, located in Valencia, California, is known for its amazing coasters. What’s cool is that the park offers a mix of scary-type coasters for the big kids (and adults) and tame coasters for the kids (and wimpy adults, like me). Other Six Flags parks also belong here, too, as the chain has lots of locations across America.

  • 4: Disney California Adventure Park, Anaheim, California

    If you want that Disney experience but live on the West Coast, then you’re much closer to Disney California Adventure Park, aka “Disneyland,” than you are to Disney World. I’ve actually been to both parks, since my aunt lives near Disneyland, and I went as a kid. The park is super fun for those of any age, and it really gives you that Disney movie experience, but in a park. The park has been updated over the years, but it’s more classic than Disney World.

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  • 3. Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania

    If you’re in the Pennsylvania area, then you absolutely have to go to Hersheypark. The park, which is owned by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, helps to keep Milton S. Hershey’s legacy alive. Not only do you get chocolate (yum!), but Hersheypark also offers roller coasters, water rides and more fun.

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  • 2. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida

    There is something simply classic about Walt Disney World. It should be every kid’s right of passage to go here. I’m fortunate that my parents took me to Disney World twice when I was little. I loved meeting my favorite princesses, but there is plenty to do for adults at the park, too.

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  • 1. Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio

    Cedar Point is legendary in the Midwest. The park is considered the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” since it has so many fantastic coasters to ride. If you’re looking for major thrills, plus stuff to do for the family, Cedar Point is a great spot. Plus, it’s not as pricey as some of the major parks.

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Rachel PItts is a 20+ year radio veteran covers all things Philly for Beasley Media Group Philadelphia as the Digital Program Director. This includes 97.5 The Fanatic, WMMR, WMGK, 92.5 XTU and BEN FM. A graduate from the Universaity of South Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communications with a focus in Public Relations. Previously was the Digital Program Director for Beasley Media Group Tampa. Has been the co-host of "Theme Parks & Rec Podcast" and of the Tampa Bay Lightning backed podcast called, "Game Mizconduct".

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