The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park
Prepare for a terrifying night at The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park, San Diego's premier haunted tradition. This attraction features two horrifying experiences: the unpredictable eXperiment Maze and the mile-long Haunted Trail. Named one of America's Top 5 BEST Haunted Attractions, it promises high-impact scares, strobe lights, and immersive environments that will test your courage.
What to Expect
Two distinct haunts: mile-long trail and eXperiment Maze
Event Details
Duration
20-30 minutes for the Trail, plus maze time and wait time
Ages
Not recommended for children under 10; must be able to walk independently. No babies, strollers, or children being carried.
Neighborhood
Balboa Park
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
The Haunted Trail at Balboa Park
Food & Drink
Concessions booth sells water, sodas, energy drinks, candy, and snack items. Food trucks are available at the Dark Carnival exit.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Thrill-seekers and horror enthusiasts
Vibe
Intense, terrifying, immersive
Energy Level
High
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Limited (no flash photography or lights allowed inside)
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (may close due to heavy rain/storms)
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: There is no designated parking lot for the event. Visitors must find parking throughout Balboa Park and surrounding areas. All parking spots are paid meters until 6pm daily. Drop-off and pickup is at Balboa Dr & Juniper.
- Accessibility: The Haunted Trail is wheelchair accessible, but the outdoor terrain of dirt and mulch can be difficult to maneuver.
- Pets: Service animals only
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential sell-outs and long lines at the ticket booth.
- Consider the VIP Blood Red Carpet admission for the ultimate experience, including front-of-line access and exclusive perks.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as the event is outdoors and involves walking through uneven terrain.
- Arrive early, especially on busy nights, to navigate parking and find the entrance without missing your timed entry window.
- If using a wheelchair, be prepared for challenging terrain; manual wheelchairs may be easier to maneuver than powerchairs.
Special Events & Promotions
- VIP Blood Red Carpet experience for 2026
- Group Discount Tickets available for 20+ tickets purchased in advance
- Military Discount of $5 OFF Timed General Admission on Sundays-Thursdays (9/27/26 – 10/22/26)
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What if it rains?
The Haunted Trail will make efforts to stay open during light or intermediate showers. In case of storms or heavy rain, they may close, with updates posted on their Instagram. If closed, tickets will be honored on another night.
What are the parking and drop-off instructions?
There is no designated parking lot; visitors must find parking in Balboa Park (paid meters apply). Drop-off and pickup is at Balboa Dr & Juniper. The exit is at the bottom of the street, which is closed to vehicles.
How long does it take to go through?
The eXperiment Maze typically takes up to 15 minutes, and the mile-long Haunted Trail takes 20-30 minutes, not including wait times. Fast Pass and VIP options significantly reduce wait times.
Can I reschedule or upgrade my ticket?
Yes, tickets can be rescheduled or upgraded up to 1 hour before your scheduled time by creating an account via the link in your order confirmation email. Changes are subject to availability and potential price increases.
Are there age restrictions?
The Haunted Trail is not recommended for children under 10 but they are allowed if they can walk independently. Babies, strollers, and children being carried are not permitted. Minors aged 13+ can enter without an adult if one waits on-site.
More Halloween Events Near San Diego
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.