Centralia Mine Fire Guide
A Ghost Town Burning: Witness the Centralia Mine Fire Guide
Venture into the eerie and unsettling landscape of Centralia, Pennsylvania, a town forever marked by the infamous Centralia Mine Fire. This abandoned borough, once a thriving community, now stands as a haunting reminder of the destructive power of nature and the enduring impact of human error. A visit to Centralia is a unique and thought-provoking experience, offering a glimpse into a town lost to the flames. The Centralia Mine Fire began in 1962, ignited by a trash fire in a landfill that spread into the abandoned coal mines beneath the town. Despite numerous attempts to extinguish it, the fire continues to burn to this day, releasing toxic gases and causing the ground to subside. Over time, the residents of Centralia were forced to relocate, leaving behind their homes and businesses. Today, Centralia is largely a ghost town, with only a handful of residents remaining. While there are no official "activities" in Centralia, a visit is an experience in itself. You can walk or drive through the deserted streets, observing the cracked roads, abandoned buildings, and plumes of smoke rising from the ground. The most famous landmark is the Graffiti Highway, a section of Route 61 that was closed due to the fire and has since become covered in colorful graffiti. Please be aware that visiting Centralia can be dangerous due to the unstable ground and toxic gases. Exercise caution and heed all warning signs. Centralia is not known for any culinary traditions, as it is largely abandoned. Nearby towns offer dining options.
Transportation
Centralia is located in Columbia County, Pennsylvania. The most convenient way to reach Centralia is by car. From Interstate 80, take exit 224 for PA-487 toward Bloomsburg/Elysburg. Follow PA-487 N to Centralia. Be aware that some roads in and around Centralia may be closed or in poor condition due to the mine fire. There is no public transportation directly to Centralia.