Thrills await you at 2024’s Haunted Trail in Balboa Park!
The super scary and I would say ‘incredibly fun’ haunted Halloween trail in Balboa Park is back for its 25th year. This year you can expect more screams from Halloween lovers and scare-seekers alike.
Named as one of the Top 10 Haunted House Attractions in America by CNN, The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park is definitely not for the fainthearted.
My teenage kids loved it so much last year that I have already purchased my tickets to make sure I’m able to attend again on the best day for my family!
One of the Haunted Houses at the Haunted Trail of Balboa Park
What is the Haunted Trail of Balboa Park?
The Haunted Trail is a popular, standout Halloween attraction in Balboa Park and the surrounding area, but what makes it so unique?
The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park is two haunts in one location!
The eXperiment Maze is an indoor 3,500 square foot maze home to dark fairy tales, spooky retellings of memorable characters, and plenty of jump scares. Your adventure will start here!
This part took me and my family about 15 minutes and I think that is about the average it takes to complete.
The Mile-Long Trail then leads guests outdoors through its foggy, ghoul and creature-filled twisted trails.
The Haunted Trail is a local favorite, but if you’ve never heard of it, be warned it’s not young kid-friendly. It’s geared more toward teens and adults, and is not suggested for children under ten.
Sign to the Haunted Trail of Balboa Park
When is the Haunted Trail in Balboa Park Open in 2024?
The Haunted Trail will scare guests on select night from September 27th to November 2nd during the 2024 Halloween season.
The times do change as the dates get closer to Halloween, so be sure to check the official website for the exact dates and times.
They do try to stay open even if it rains. They post on their Instagram page if the storm is too much to stay open and in that case, an alternate date to attend and instructions are provided.
Todd and Family in Line at the Haunted Trail of Balboa Park
Why My Family Loves It
Personally, the Haunted Trail is a lot of fun for adults and older kids! It’s perfect for families with teenagers looking for actual scary Halloween fun.
There are quite a few family-friendly Halloween events in San Diego, but along with Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld San Diego, this is my other favorite Halloween attraction to enjoy with teenagers.
There are plenty of unique characters, costumes, jump scares, and fun adventures as you go through the mazes. As I mentioned above, we’re going again this year, so if you see us - say hi!
Fountain Terrace at Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town / SeaWorld Area
Where To Stay Near the Haunted Trail
The Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town / SeaWorld Area delivers plenty of modern amenities, in-room conveniences, and an on-site restaurant, all within a new hotel with a great location.
You’ll be within walking distance to Old Town San Diego, for its shops, restaurants and my favorite Día de los Muertos celebration in San Diego. You’ll also be near the Morena - Linda Vista Station for access to public transportation.
Plus you’ll be minutes away from Balboa Park for the it’s museums, world-famous San Diego Zoo, and walking trails during the day plus the haunted trail by night. You’ll also be a short rideshare from the Gaslamp Quarter and Downtown San Diego.
Get the Full Experience
Wear comfortable shoes when visiting The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park—it's a spooky outdoor walk with uneven terrain. Also, the scares intensify after dark, so if you want the full experience, plan to go later in the evening!