As Halloween approaches, nothing sets the mood better than a good ghost story—and the legend of the Bandage Man along Oregon’s Highway 101 is one of the creepiest tales from the Pacific Northwest. This eerie figure wrapped in bloody bandages has terrified locals and travelers for decades, making it a perfect story to share as the nights grow darker and the air turns crisp.
The Haunting Legend of the Bandage Man
The Bandage Man is said to be the restless spirit of a logger who suffered a gruesome accident at a sawmill. After his fatal injuries, his ghost reportedly began haunting the stretch of Highway 101 near Cannon Beach. Witnesses describe him as completely wrapped in tattered, bloodied bandages, with glowing eyes that pierce through the fog.
Travelers who have encountered the Bandage Man tell spine-tingling stories—some say he appears as a hitchhiker on the side of the road, only to disappear when drivers slow down. Others report sudden drops in temperature, strange smells of decay, or their cars inexplicably stalling when he is near.
Creepy Encounters Along the Road
One of the most famous accounts involves a group of teenagers driving late at night, when a figure suddenly leapt onto their car’s hood, wrapped entirely in blood-stained bandages. Panicked, they sped away, only to find no trace of the figure when they stopped. Another tale describes the Bandage Man’s glowing eyes blocking the fog-shrouded highway, an unsettling sight that drivers never forget.
These stories have become part of Oregon’s local folklore and continue to be shared around campfires and social gatherings, especially at Halloween.
Why the Bandage Man Captures Halloween Imagination
The mystery and fear surrounding the Bandage Man perfectly embody the spirit of Halloween. His story taps into deeper themes of tragedy and vengeance and adds a supernatural twist that makes it unforgettable. This legend reminds us how local stories and haunted places enrich our Halloween celebrations, connecting us through shared chills and thrilling tales.
Celebrate Halloween with Unique Tee Shirts and Clipart
If you love Halloween and spooky stories like the Bandage Man, be sure to check out my Etsy shop! I offer a great selection of Halloween-themed tee shirts and clipart designs that reflect the eerie and fun spirit of the season. Whether you want to dress up for the festivities or add some hauntingly beautiful graphics to your projects, you’ll find something perfect to enhance your Halloween experience. Visit my shop and get ready to celebrate October in style!