Day or night, come out for Scouts' Haunted Hike
Some go for the treats. Some only want tricks.
Others are looking to get scared out of their wits!
It's Halloween and there are plenty of ghosts, goblins, and good fun to be had throughout the Fox Valley.
Those looking for frights will get plenty at the annual Haunted Hike hosted by the Three Fires Council-Boy Scouts of America beginning at 7 p.m. Friday and continuing the next two weekends.
"It's just a nice quarter of a mile hike through the woods ... with scares at every turn!" laughed Don Gatske, chairman of the hike.
For those unwilling to face their fears, the scouts have also put together a tamer Kiddie Hike. Taking place during the day, those on this path are more likely to find sweet treats than spooky creeps.
Since 1996, the Boy Scouts have worked together to put on the scariest show of the season. Planning for the event begins in May, as it takes months to get the elaborate sets and costumes ready. There are ten themed "scenes" along the wooded walk that are all filled with the sights and sounds of those who go bump in the night.
Though adult volunteers are present for guidance, it's primarily up to scouts to make sure the event is a success. Last year, over 100 young people gave their time and talents toward the hike.
Boy Scout Ryan Griswold of St. Charles, has been a part of the Haunted Hike team for the past four years. This year, he is responsible for setting up and running the Black Maze scene.
"When I was younger, I would get scared going through the hike," said Griswold. "Now it's my chance to return the favor!"
Griswold thinks the maze is the scariest scene in the hike since it takes place in complete darkness which can cause people to feel lost and confused. But if that doesn't get you trembling, visits from horror legends Freddy Krueger and Mike Myers are sure to terrorize.
Last year, over 5,000 guests paid to be petrified. But the scouts want to continue pushing the limits.
"Every year, we always want to do more," said Gatske. "This year we're taking a big step forward."
The ghouls and goblins populating this year's hike will be even more frightening, thanks to the help of Kelli Tildmore, a professional make-up artist who has been helping the scouts learn how to achieve perfectly chilling looks. Tildmore knows what's scary, as she's also a producer of the horror film "Bled White."
"It's been really interesting working with Kelli," said Griswold. "She's given us a lot of new ideas."
For those unwilling to face their fears, the scouts have also put together a tamer Kiddie Hike. Taking place during the day, those on this path are more likely to find sweet treats than spooky creeps.
No matter which route you choose, this is one haunted event you can't miss this Halloween.
"You should try to go through, even if you're scared," Griswold encouraged. "But bring your friends or family with you!"
For more information, call (630) 584.9250 x69 or visit tfchauntedhike.org.
Haunted Hike
When: 7 to 11 p.m., Fridays, Oct. 17 and 24; 6:30 to 11 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 18 and 25; Kiddie Hike is 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25;
Where: Camp Big Timber, 37W955 Big Timber Road, Elgin
Tickets: General admission is $10. Scouts who come in uniform are $7
Parking: Free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.