As the spooky October season sneaks around the corner, Big Ridge State Park has some ghostly adventures planned for the community and visitors. As you may know, there are some mysterious stories from past generations that spook the park this time of year. These stories are shared amongst hikers at the Annual Ghost House Hikes which have been happening for more than a decade.

Every Friday night in October, the park offers an easy one and a half mile hike where guests are guided to follow a trail that traverses an old homestead from the 1800s. You will hear the true ghost stories from the families that lived there. These stories have been passed down for generations and who knows, if your heritage runs deep in Union County, your family may be a part of these spooky tales.

This is a great way to kick off the autumn season. Stop in early to spectate the beautiful fall colors and views offered by the park, then make it a family adventure to attend the hike and storytelling. The gorgeous native trees provide a colorful sight, and whenpaired with the whispy air and sparkling lake, what more can you ask for.

There are three hikes each night beginning at 7:00pm, 7:30pm, and 8:00pm. It is advised to wear sturdy shoes for the hike. No children under the age of six are permitted and there is a cap of twenty people per hike, so claim your spot fast. Advanced registration is required and the cost is $5 per person, to be paid at the time of registration. To reserve your spot, visit www.tnstateparks.com/parks/about/big-ridge or call 865-992-5523.

The park is looking for volunteers to help in leading the hikes. Every volunteer will experience the Ghost House Hikes for free and may bring one other person to accompany with them. Volunteers will need to schedule a time before their designated hike to do a practice run in the daylight with a ranger. This is a fun way to provide a community service, all the while having a great time and sharing heritage yourself.

For more information about attending or volunteering, contact the park office at 865-992-5523 or email Hannah.Paschall@tn.gov.