As Halloween creeps closer, Murray Youth Community Council leader Sheri Van Bibber, who also represents the Murray Exchange Club, invited the community to the town’s most beloved autumn tradition: the 51st annual Murray City Haunted Woods. From Oct. 20 to 22, in the shadowy expanse of Murray Park, this year boasts its most imaginative incarnation yet.

Van Bibber heralds the upcoming event as “the most ‘Creative Year Yet,’” highlighting the expanded involvement of local youth, artistic talent and engaged residents. The event, she emphasized, "includes the talents of our Murray Youth, our Murray artist and community members to ramp up the most 'Creative Year Yet.'"

A Tale of Two Trails

Guests can traverse two distinct trails in the north parking lot area across from the Parks & Rec Center: the delightful “Silly Trail” runs from 5-7 p.m., tailored for all ages, encouraging families to bring trick-or-treat bags; then, from 7-9 p.m., the mood shifts.

Mermaids greet visitors along the “Silly Trail” in Murray’s Haunted Woods. (Photo courtesy of Murray Haunted Woods)

The “Scary Trails” come alive as lights flicker and silhouettes emerge—Van Bibber promises that "the woods begin to ‘come alive'" and "the whole ambiance changes as night falls."

Recognizing varied tastes, organizers introduced the clever safety cue “ghouls be gone,” a playful password for visitors seeking to steer clear of spookier scenes. Even the queue promises entertainment, with "the fun begins in the line this year."

lash Mobsters, Ghostbusters and Gourmet Treats

This year’s Haunted Woods delivers more than scares. Van Bibber teases surprise Flash Mobsters, roving performers popping up amid the crowds, plus the famed Ghostbusters—complete with their spirited car and towering three-story Marshmallow Man—offering unforgettable photo moments. Adding levity, Chick-fil-A’s cow and hot-air balloon drop by for memorable encounters.

End your journey at the gazebo with a fortune reading which Van Bibber promises will be mind bending. “And top off the night,” she said, “with a Dunford Donut and very chocolatey hot chocolate!”

Tradition, Outreach and Affordability

This event isn’t just spectacle—it’s a community cornerstone. People visit from across Utah, making it a day-long family outing. As Van Bibber notes, “We have been a long-lived Murray tradition for many families going 50-plus years back and has become a new tradition to those who just learned about us. This is the power of social media and neighbors sharing with neighbors.”

Tickets remain affordable—just $5 per person, with kids under 3 free—hoping to counter rising costs and ensure participation remains accessible. Indeed, proceeds again support a noble cause: benefiting the Exchange Club’s mission to combat child abuse and domestic violence in Utah Haunted Woodsthemurraychamber.com.

Give Back—and Glow

You may run into this dapper fellow on the “Scary Trail” in Murray’s Haunted Woods. (Photo courtesy of Murray Haunted Woods)

The Haunted Woods also carries a philanthropic twist. An empty coffin near the ticket booth invites visitors to donate to the Murray Children’s Food Pantry—even those not entering the woods can contribute. Don’t miss the festival merch: "Love Murray Halloween" shirts and glow-in-the-dark items promise both flair and safety on fall nights. Organizers also partner with Parents Empowered, reinforcing health and wellness messaging.

Behind the scenes, the event rests on robust support—from AAA Restoration, Jenn Kikel-Lynn's Give Back Brokerage feeding staff nightly, to Andy Evans & Family Company, the Murray Chamber, and the Richart family whose creative forces animate the woods.

A Storied Legacy

Murray’s Haunted Woods stands among Utah’s oldest family-friendly haunted attractions. Over 50 years strong, it continues to engage all generations. What began as a town hallmark has blossomed into a fundraising powerhouse and festive must-do.

Plan Your Visit

• When: Monday-Wednesday, Oct. 20-22, 5-9 p.m.
• Where: Murray City Park—enter from State Street entrance, proceed to the south side near the Parks & Rec Office (north parking lot).
• Tickets: $5 available in advance or at the gate; kids under 3 free or online at Haunted Woodsthemurraychamber.com