Trick-or-Treat takes to the forest, as the YMCA of the Northwoods once again hosts the ‘Not so Scary’ Halloween Trail on the Stoney Pines Trail behind the Y on Friday, Oct. 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. The ¾-mile crushed-granite trail winds through the woods and community groups, businesses and volunteers decorate sites along the trail and hand out candy to trick-or-treaters. After walking the trail, participants are encouraged to head inside the Y for refreshments and chili. The entire event is free to the community.

Last year, the ‘Not so Scary’ trail drew 2000 people. Parking will be available at the Rhinelander Ice Arena, and a path from the arena leads to the entrance of the trail. Those with strollers or who require an even surface should use the sidewalk along Hwy 17. A donation of a non-perishable food item is encouraged to “Fill the Wagon, Fill the Need”. The food items will be donated to the Rhinelander Food Shelter.  All participants are also asked to bring a flashlight and a Halloween treat bag.

The trail brings out the community, including “behind the scenes.” “This wouldn’t be possible without the support of all the wonderful community groups and volunteers that decorate, host the sites on the trail, and just basically help us put on the event,” said Laurie Bielen, Event Coordinator. Those unable to host a site can help in other ways as well. “We are non-profit, and we provide this as a free, family-friendly, safe event for our community. We appreciate donations of candy or other small child-friendly items to hand out. Financial donations to purchase supplies are welcome too,” said Bielen. There are still a few sites available, and those interested in sponsoring a site or volunteering can contact Bielen at 715-362-9622 ext. 114.