15 Spine-Chilling Destinations Every Stephen King Fan Must Visit

4. The Devil’s Kettle – Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Minnesota

While The Mist primarily takes place inside a supermarket, one of its most mysterious elements—the never-ending hole in the ground where objects vanish without explanation—is inspired by a real-life natural phenomenon. The Devil’s Kettle, located in Judge C.R. Magney State Park in northern Minnesota, is one of the most puzzling geological mysteries in the United States. A section of the Brule River suddenly splits in two, with one stream continuing its expected course while the other plunges into a deep, gaping hole in the rock and seemingly disappears. For decades, scientists and curious visitors alike have tried to solve the mystery of where the water goes, conducting experiments by dropping objects like ping pong balls and dye into the hole—only to have them never resurface. The eerie nature of this inexplicable abyss makes it the perfect real-world inspiration for The Mist, where the unknown is just as terrifying as the creatures lurking within. If you’re brave enough to visit, you’ll find a hiking trail leading to a scenic overlook where you can peer into the depths of this strange geological riddle. Featured In: The Mist (2007 film)