Something extraordinary happens when Key Biscayne’s neighbors give their Halloween imagination free rein. Ordinary objects become ominous props. Familiar faces disappear behind elaborate makeup. A peaceful park becomes a place where laughter and screams travel together.

On Saturday, Oct. 24, Friends of Cape Florida’s Haunted Hike returns to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park with an expanded carnival, entertainment and the island’s biggest family community Halloween celebration. Your tickets include dinner, rides, dazzling performances and, for those with sufficient nerve, a walk into the unknown.

Event Chair Paul Zuccarini has assembled an ambitious lineup for guests of all ages, working alongside dedicated volunteers and the park’s ranger team. Their joint efforts will turn the “Park in Our Backyard” into an evening playground of light, movement and thrilling adventure.

Young visitors can explore the Pumpkin Patch and ride the new Spooky Tram Ride. The park’s new electric, ADA-accessible tram will be decorated for a journey introducing children to the wonder of the “Park after Dark.” This year a “Super Hero Hour” from 5-6 p.m., offers a sensory-friendly hour to residents with unique abilities and their families.

Light performers will illuminate the evening, while a face painting salon brings together artists donating their creative talents. Guests can test their balance on the mechanical bull, bounce in the Big Top Bounce House, tackle the Street Racing Obstacle Course, brave the Lagoon of Doom and take a spin in bumper cars.

Come hungry. Food trucks and vendors will offer dinner and dessert options including Nimbuya Burgers, Mini Donuts, French snacks from the Beach Cafe, refreshing Kona Ice and more.

The evening’s signature challenge is the half-mile Haunted Hike.

Mastermind Manny Rionda leads the volunteer “Spooky Spot” teams whose ingenuity keeps guests returning year after year. Along the trail, a series of miniature stages lead guests through a succession of unsettling encounters. Light effects, costumes, discarded materials and astonishing imagination create scenes that delight thrill seekers at every turn.

Behind every moment are people giving their time, talent and energy to their community. Zuccarini, Rionda, the volunteer crews and park rangers deserve applause, along with sponsors and supporters including the Key Biscayne Community Foundation, Islander News and the Village of Key Biscayne. The Haunted Hike is Friends of Cape Florida’s most important fundraisers, with proceeds directly supporting park programs, activities and education projects like the museum revamp.

The nonprofit works closely with the park to protect its natural resources and cultural heritage, including the Cape Florida Lighthouse. Its mission connects stewardship of these treasured 506 acres with opportunities for learning, recreation and community connection, while honoring the legacy of William Calhoun Baggs.

Haunted Hike | Saturday, October 24, 2026

Location: Near Pavilion D-18, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Tickets: Available on Eventbrite; CLICK HERE.

Super Hero Hour: 5–6 p.m.

Carnival opens: 6 p.m.

Haunted Hike starts: 7:30 p.m.