Spike traps are traps that involve a sharpened stake, spear, or rod that is set to stab out from a wall, floor, or ceiling when triggered. The spikes may have skulls or skeletal remains stuck to them from some earlier, unlucky adventurer. They may be reset once triggered or may remain extended. Often they are triggered by tripwire or pressure plate. They are frequently found in ancient temples, game dungeons, and bandit camps.

Fixed spikes are often found at the bottom of a pitfall trap.