August is here, which means September is right around the corner, which means it's basically Halloween, right? We're checking out a few cryptids that call Wisconsin home.

Cryptids: a creature whose reported existence is unproved, such as Bigfoot or the Loch Ness monster.

Hodag | Rhinelander
In 1893, known prankster Eugene Shepard insisted on the existence of this dragon-like creature, going as far as creating a Hodag for display which he charged locals 10 cents to bear witness to. While eventually Eugene admitted his Hodag antics were fictional, Rhinelander has embraced the cryptid making it an integral part of the city's identity.

Beast of Bray Road | Elkhorn
Referred to as a modern American werewolf, residents of Elkhorn and Delevan have reported seeing this bear/wolf-like creature. Sightings peaked in 1990's, garnering national attention and inspiration for a 2005 film and 2018 documentary.

"The Bray Road Beast" documentary premiered at the 2018 Milwaukee Paracon. | Still by Small Town Monsters Production Co.

Trolls | Mount Horeb
Did you know that Mount Horeb is the troll capital of the world? The city earned this title due to legends of underground trolls emerging from the nearby Cave of the Mounds and becoming enamored with the community. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to search for the 34 trolls along the downtown Trollway.

Keep your eyes peeled for trolls all around Mount Horeb. | Photo by City of Mount Horeb

Phantom Chickens | Seymour
Just outside of Eau Claire, you'll find Chicken Alley. Here, drivers have reported seeing chickens run across the road only to seemingly disappear into thin air. We think this cryptid adventure would be well-suited for those who are averse to more intense frights.

Upcoming adventures

Interested in learning more about cryptids? The Wisconsin Cryptids, Anomalies, and the Paranormal Society (CAPS) has got you covered.

Wisconsin CAPS is a group of curious investigators dedicated to understanding the unknown. Connect with them online or at one of these upcoming regional events.