Could an entire haunted town be hiding inside a single building? In Whittier, Alaska, nearly the whole population lives under one roof—inside the cold concrete walls of Begich Towers. Isolated, weather-worn, and cloaked in cloud cover much of the year, this eerie 14-story structure has become a source of fascination for urban explorers, paranormal enthusiasts, and documentary filmmakers alike. But beyond the curiosity lies a deeper question: is Whittier’s infamous tower home to more than just its residents?
Ghost Stories of the Haunted Begich Towers
Rumors of hauntings in Begich Towers have swirled for years. While no official investigations have taken place, the stories shared by locals and visitors suggest that something lingers in the dimly lit corridors.
- Whispers in the Hallways – Several residents have reported hearing faint voices or conversations when no one else is around, often in the lower levels or service corridors.
- The Elevator Presence – People claim to feel watched or followed when riding the elevator, especially during power outages or late at night when the building is nearly silent.
- Lights in the Empty Wings – Former military personnel and maintenance workers have reported seeing lights flick on and off in sections of the building known to be unoccupied.
- Phantom Footsteps – Footsteps echo on the concrete floors even when the hallways are visibly empty. Some say it’s the wind. Others aren’t so sure.
While some dismiss these experiences as the effects of isolation or cabin fever, others believe something is genuinely haunting this self-contained city. The building’s eerie reputation has even been featured in documentaries and online explorations, including the viral short film Life in Whittier, Alaska, which has drawn paranormal-curious viewers from around the world.
A Historic Legacy in Whittier
Originally constructed in 1953 by the U.S. Army and known as the Hodge Building, the structure was designed to house military personnel and withstand extreme weather. After being renamed Begich Towers in honor of U.S. Congressman Nick Begich, the building was gradually converted into residential use. Today, nearly every resident of Whittier—around 200 people—lives inside its walls.
With a school, post office, grocery store, and city offices all housed within the complex, Begich Towers is a modern-day experiment in isolation and self-containment. During the long Alaskan winters, when 100+ mph winds and snow make outdoor travel difficult, the building becomes a sealed community, cut off from the rest of the world—and, perhaps, vulnerable to something paranormal.
Visiting Tips for a Ghostly Adventure
Thinking of experiencing this haunted landmark for yourself? Here’s how to make it happen:
Plan Your Visit: While Begich Towers is not a tourist attraction, it is viewable from the outside, and some areas such as the building lobby and on-site businesses are publicly accessible. Learn more at begichtowers.com. Visitors are asked to respect resident privacy. The building is located at the end of the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—the only land route into Whittier.
Details about hours, access, and events are accurate at the time of writing. Please check the location’s official website for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.
Spooky Spots to Discover:
- Lower-Level Hallways – Known for whispers and shadowy movements.
- Elevator and Stairwells – Frequent reports of an unseen presence.
- Unoccupied Wings – Lights reportedly flicker in areas no longer in use.
- Building Exterior at Dusk – The isolated location and imposing architecture create an ominous silhouette against the mountains
Dare to Explore the Haunted Begich Towers?
Begich Towers isn’t just a building—it’s an entire town sealed behind thick walls. Whether the whispers are tricks of the wind or echoes from the past, this hauntingly unique structure continues to capture the imagination. If you’re drawn to stories where isolation meets the unexplained, this remote Alaskan tower might be calling you.
