Witches, ghosts, ghouls and the occasional zombie hand will be waiting in the woods of Glen Nevis later this month as one of Fort William’s favourite family Halloween events returns for another evening of spooky adventures.
High Life Highland’s Spooky Trail will take place at the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre on Wednesday 28 October, bringing an evening of woodland surprises, storytelling and Halloween fun for families.
Now in its fourth year, the event has become a popular autumn tradition, attracting more than 100 visitors annually to explore the woodland beneath Britain’s highest mountain.
As darkness falls, families will be invited to follow a trail through the trees, where mysterious figures, glowing pumpkins and unexpected encounters will be waiting around the next corner.
There may be a few nervous moments along the way, but the organisers are keen to reassure parents that the experience is intended to be far more fun than frightening.
The event is organised by High Life Highland’s Countryside Ranger Service alongside the team at Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, who transform the familiar woodland into a Halloween adventure.
Once the brave explorers have completed their journey, they can return to the warmth of the visitor centre for refreshments and activities.
Tea, coffee and squash will be available, while younger visitors can enjoy Halloween crafts, spooky storytelling with High Life Highland library staff and a selection of sweet treats.
Fancy dress is very much encouraged, with witches, skeletons, vampires, superheroes and whatever else the imagination can produce all welcome.
High Life Highland Countryside Ranger Fiona MacLean said:
“The Spooky Trail has become one of our favourite events of the year.
“We love transforming the woodland into a world of Halloween magic and seeing the excitement on children’s faces as they explore the trail.
“There’s something really special about being outdoors on a dark autumn evening, following the path through the woods and discovering all the spooky surprises along the way.
“Costumes are definitely encouraged and the more creative the better, but the most important thing to bring is a sense of adventure and maybe a little bit of courage!”
The woodland setting is an important part of the attraction, with the darkness, rustling leaves and shadows providing an atmosphere that would be difficult to recreate indoors.
For younger children, the chance to dress up, explore somewhere familiar in a completely different way and share the experience with friends and family is part of the appeal.
The event also offers families an opportunity to enjoy an evening together without the cost of admission.
Entry is free, donations are welcome and parking at the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre will also be free during the event.
With the fourth Spooky Trail approaching, the Countryside Ranger team is preparing another collection of mysterious woodland characters and Halloween surprises.
All that remains is for families to find their costumes, gather their courage and discover what might be lurking among the trees of Glen Nevis.
