Bastyr University’s Haunted Trails celebrates a decade of terrifying the Eastside

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By Matt Phelps • October 14, 2009 1:04 pm
Volunteers for last year’s Haunted Trails dress up as everything from witched to skeletons to scarecrows. The event will be in its 10th year when it opens this weekend at Bastyr University in Kenmore.
Volunteers for last year’s Haunted Trails dress up as everything from witched to skeletons to scarecrows. The event will be in its 10th year when it opens this weekend at Bastyr University in Kenmore.

One of the biggest and longest running Halloween events on the Eastside is Bastyr University’s Haunted Trails.

This year is the 10th anniversary of students scaring the willies out of people in St. Edwards State Park. The event will take place on Oct. 16, 17, 23 and 24 from 5-11 p.m. The trails that run around Bastyr and through St Edwards State Park are a prime location for the hair-raising antics of students made up as ghosts, ghouls and goblins.

“We expect 4,000 people over the two weekends,” said Terry Courtney, Dean of the Acupuncture program.

Outdoor events, such as Haunted Trails are rare. The ambiance and reality of the cold and moon overhead can add to the experience.

“I think we might have cornered the market in this area,” said Courtney. It is a unique thing to be able to offer and it is a nice way to highlight the park and the University.”

The event costs $12 per person, $11 with a non-perishable food donation.

The proceeds from the event go to support the University’s acupuncture program and the students’ trip to China to study the ancient art. Over 80 students participate in the fundraiser.

“We also have friends, family and neighbors who have been recruited to help,” said Courtney. “It is a safe scary and fun event for the entire family.”

The event also includes a huge 2,400-square-foot maze called Hades Labyrinth, which is $8 per person and begins at 7 p.m.

Participants have to be at least eight years of age for both the Haunted Trails and Hades Labyrinth.

For kids ages seven and younger, the event offers a less scary option. Trick or Treat Trail runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and provides kids a chance to both enjoy a “lighter” version of the Haunted Trails tour and collect special Halloween treats. Cost is $3 per child.

Children can also go inside for Halloween Story Time after walking the Trick or Treat Trail.

“It is very kid friendly,” said Courtney, who said that the Halloween Carnival that is also put on includes events such as face painting. “We really have a variety of stuff.”

Story time begins at 7 p.m. with a different Halloween tale told each night. Cost is $1 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All ticket sales begin 15 minutes prior to the opening of each event. Organizers will also be able to take credit and debit cards this year.

Bastyr University’s woods and campus is located at 14500 Juanita Drive N.E. just outside Kirkland in the city of Kenmore.