The Stanley Hotel: A Haunted Colorado Destination

An Impressionist painting of the haunted Stanely Hotel. Designed by Phantom Phile.

 

I. Introduction

A. Overview of The Stanley Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado, sits The Stanley Hotel, a grand hotel with a rich and fascinating history. The Stanley has welcomed guests since 1909 and has remained a beloved destination for over a century.

B. Brief History of The Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel was founded by Freelan Oscar Stanley, an inventor and businessman who came to Colorado to help with his tuberculosis. Stanley was a firm believer in the healing powers of fresh air and sunshine and soon discovered the beauty of the Estes Valley. He and his wife Flora fell in love with the area and decided to build a grand hotel, the likes of which Colorado had never seen.

II. The Haunted Reputation

A. The Ghosts of The Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel is famous for its paranormal activity and has been featured on numerous television shows and in movies. Guests have reported strange happenings for years, and the hotel has embraced its haunted reputation. Some of the most common ghost sightings include:

The ghost of Freelan Stanley: Guests and staff have reported seeing the apparition of the hotel's founder, Freelan Stanley. He is often seen in the lobby or in his favorite room, room 217.

The ghost of Flora Stanley: Flora Stanley is said to haunt the hotel's grand piano. Guests have reported hearing music coming from the piano even when no one is playing it.

The ghost of Paul: Paul was a former employee who died in the hotel. He is often seen in the hallways and is known for playing pranks on guests.

B. Famous Ghost Sightings

One of the most famous ghost sightings at The Stanley Hotel occurred in room 217. In 1974, author Stephen King and his wife stayed in the room and experienced strange and unexplained occurrences. This experience inspired King to write his bestselling novel, The Shining.

III. The Shining Connection

A. The Inspiration for The Shining

Stephen King was staying at The Stanley Hotel when he was inspired to write The Shining. The hotel was largely empty due to the end of the season, and King and his wife were two of the only guests. They stayed in room 217, and King had a nightmare about his young son being chased through the hotel's corridors.

B. The Stanley Hotel in The Shining

The Stanley Hotel was the inspiration for the Overlook Hotel in King's novel, and it was used as the primary filming location for the 1997 television miniseries adaptation. Fans of the book and movie can take a guided tour of the hotel and see the locations that inspired King's story.

IV.The Haunted Rooms of the Stanley Hotel

Several rooms in the Stanley Hotel are believed to be haunted, and guests have reported various paranormal occurrences during their stays. Here are some of the most haunted rooms in the hotel:

Room 217: This room is said to be the most haunted room in the hotel and is often requested by guests. According to legend, a former head housekeeper named Elizabeth Wilson passed away in this room, and her ghost still haunts the premises. Guests have reported seeing her ghostly apparition in the room and feeling her presence during their stay.

Room 401: This room is located on the top floor of the hotel and is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a cowboy. Guests have reported seeing his apparition and feeling a cold breeze in the room, as well as hearing the sound of boots walking across the wooden floor.

Room 428: This room is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former housekeeper who worked at the hotel in the early 1900s. Guests have reported seeing her ghostly apparition and feeling her presence in the room.

The Concert Hall: The concert hall is a popular venue for events and weddings at the Stanley Hotel, but it is also known for its paranormal activity. Guests have reported hearing the sound of a piano playing, even when there is no one in the room, as well as seeing ghostly apparitions.

Despite the reported paranormal activity in these rooms, many guests still choose to stay in them for the chance to experience something supernatural.

V. Getting Rid of Ghosts at the Stanley Hotel

For those who are not interested in encountering ghosts during their stay at the Stanley Hotel, there are some methods believed to help get rid of them. One popular method is to burn sage, which is believed to purify the energy of a space and ward off negative spirits. Another method is to carry a protective charm, such as a cross or a crystal, which is believed to provide a barrier against ghosts.

However, it's important to note that the Stanley Hotel is a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts, and many guests come specifically to experience the reported hauntings. So, if you're looking for a ghost-free stay, it may be best to choose a different hotel. But if you're up for a spooky adventure, the Stanley Hotel is the perfect place to visit.

VI. Conclusion

The Stanley Hotel in Colorado is a unique and historic hotel with a rich paranormal history. From its origins as a health retreat to its infamous role in inspiring Stephen King's "The Shining," the hotel has many stories to tell. Whether you're a believer in the paranormal or a skeptic, a stay at the Stanley Hotel is sure to be an unforgettable experience.