The excitement was palpable as folks waited in line to take a walk through the Fantom Forest, part of Pumpkins in the Pines at SkyPark at Santa’s Village.

How scary would it be? What are we going to see? Who’s going to scream first?

The archway that indicates guests are entering the Fantom Forest is a work of art – covered in spider webs. Not far along the trail guests encounter another web, complete with a spider (don’t worry – it’s not real).

Fog swirled around the guests’ feet while a wolf could be heard howling in the distance.

The grave digger accosted this guest, noting he was taking reservations. Gnomes popped up along the trail, and dollies called out to the guests.

Gravestones dotted the landscape beside the trail, which ended with the angel fairy who lost her name. Children were drawn to the pretty lady and were happy to help her find a new name.

The family-friendly hike begins at 6 p.m. and continues until about 7:45. At that point, the Villagers will get ready for the hike that is recommended for mature audiences and guests over the age of 13. One guest, after going on the second hike – which begins at 8 p.m. and goes until 9 p.m. – was heard to say he was “scared to death!”

Pumpkins in the Pines will continue through Oct. 31 with a puppet show and Wacko the magician on weekends.

The pumpkins scattered throughout the park are all for sale and can be decorated. Face painting is also available.

For more information, visit https://skyparksantasvillage.com/.