Illustration of a glowing path winding through an autumn forest with jack-o'-lanterns, hanging lanterns and floating ghosts (Dark Forest at Powell Gardens)

Dark Forest at Powell Gardens

Visitors journey along a one-mile unpaved woodland trail brought to life with music, creative technology, lighting effects, and supernatural character performers. Along the route and halfway at Mystic Lake, guests can witness pop-up fire performances and stop for themed food and drinks. The experience also includes access to the Mystic Faire artist market and a fall sunflower display inside the Garden Galleries.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Hours

Gates open at 5:30 p.m.; the Dark Forest trail experience opens at 7 p.m.; last trail entry is at 8:45 p.m.

Ages

Recommended for ages 13+

Food & Drink

Concessions include hot dishes like pulled pork, chili, and baked potatoes alongside coffee, cider, and craft alcohol, with an optional ticketed multi-course open-fire dinner.

Parking

Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before the scheduled time to allow for check-in and parking. VIP Fast Pass tickets include VIP parking.

Accessibility

The unpaved trail features rugged, narrow, and uneven terrain and is not designed, maintained, or managed for mobility devices, strollers, or wagons.

Pets

No pets are allowed, except registered service animals.

Going?

Location

Powell Gardens · 1609 N.W. U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO 64061 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (2/5)

Best For

Teens, adults, and lovers of atmospheric outdoor haunts

Vibe

Eerie, mystical, and theatrical

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Dress for outdoor woods hiking with closed-toe shoes and layers appropriate for the weather.
  • Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before your ticketed entry time to allow enough time for parking and check-in.
  • Do not bring strollers or wagons, as they are prohibited on the narrow, unpaved trail.

Special Events & Promotions

  • October 22 is marked 21+.
  • Garden Galleries has an all-new fall display with twelve sunflower varieties and a nighttime transformation into an eerie landscape.
  • VIP Fast Pass holders can visit any time on their selected date and move to the front of the line; tickets include two drink tickets and VIP parking.

Links & Contact

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How scary is the experience?

Dark Forest is designed with a PG-13 tone featuring eerie, creepy woodland scenes, but it contains no jump scares or gore. It is not recommended for children under 13.

Are pets allowed?

No pets are permitted on the trail, with the exception of registered service animals.

Can visitors take photos and videos?

Guests may take photos and videos, but flash photography is strictly prohibited, and visitors must stay to the side if pausing so trail traffic is not blocked.

Are restrooms available along the path?

Port-a-potties are located at the start of the trail and at the Mystic Lake halfway point, and permanent restrooms are available at the Missouri Barn before entering.

What trail conditions should visitors prepare for?

The one-mile unpaved route features natural, loose, and rugged terrain such as gravel and wood chips, along with narrow pathways, steep hills, fog, and low to no lighting.

Featured Video

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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