October nights in Westmoreland County have a way of making familiar trails feel unfamiliar, especially when something moves in the trees.

This fall, Hobgoblin Hikes will bring that playful unease to two county parks, giving families a free way to enjoy Halloween outdoors.

The guided haunted hikes are scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at Cedar Creek Park and Saturday, October 24, at Twin Lakes Park.

Walks will run continuously from 7 to 9 in the evening at both locations.

Each route covers about half a mile, but the woods will feel far from ordinary.

Visitors can expect eerie tunnels, cemetery scenes and encounters with more than 100 costumed zombies, ghosts and monsters.

The two parks will feature different scenes, so families visiting both should not expect a repeat performance.

These haunted park walks are recommended for children ages eight and older, with parents encouraged to join them on the trail.

Some scares may be intense for younger visitors, even if the event is designed as a family outing.

Costumes are welcome, although no treats will be handed out.

Admission is free, and monetary donations are appreciated.

Hosted by Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation, the hikes rotate among regional parks from year to year.

For 2026, Cedar Creek and Twin Lakes are the only stops, making these two Saturdays the local opportunities to go.

The events are planned to proceed in rain, with cancellation reserved for dangerous or severe weather.

Anyone hoping to help create the scares can volunteer as a trail guide or scare actor starting at age 15.

Volunteer meetings are planned for the Tuesday before each hike, and a limited supply of costumes and props will be available.

Groups are welcome to participate, offering friends a chance to create a memorable scene together.

Cedar Creek Park is in Rostraver Township along Route 51, just north of Interstate 70.

Twin Lakes Park sits east of Greensburg, with access from Donohoe Road off Route 30.

Bring comfortable shoes and a willingness to be startled; the woods can handle the rest.