Difficulty: Intermediate  |  Time: 6–10 hours  |  Cost: $40–$80 Every outdoor haunt that uses video projection eventually runs into the same problem — where do you hide the projector? This clever solution, originally shared by Rabbit101 on the Halloween Forum, builds a hollow fake tree stump from sonotube, plywood, and blue foam that conceals a projector, DVD player, and FM transmitter inside. Two very rainy Seattle seasons have proven it weather-resistant without any damage to the electronics. Audience members watched the Singing Pumpkins display for extended periods and still couldn’t figure out where the projector was — even after being told it was in the stump. Materials Material Notes Sonotube (concrete form tube) Two pieces totaling about 2/3 of a tube each; size to fit your electronics 3/4″ plywood For the base (organic root shape) and interior support circles Blue foam insulation board Cut into pieces and glued to the outside of the sonotube to build up bark shape Insulfoam spray (Great Stuff) Fills bare spots and gaps in the foam exterior 2″ PVC tube Runs through the bottom for power and audio cables 10″ exhaust fan (110V) Essential for cooling — projector overheats without it Wire coat hanger & propane torch Used together to burn realistic tree rings into the lid Hacksaw blade For carving and shaping the foam into bark texture Spray paint: black, brown, green, grey Black dissolves foam slightly for texture; layered with browns and a dry white wash Jigsaw & staple gun Cutting the base and attaching the sonotube sections Step-by-Step Instructions Step 1 — Cut the Plywood Base and Support Circles Start by cutting the plywood base in a random, organic root pattern — not a circle. Use a jigsaw to cut bumps and lobes that suggest natural...

Since 2000 The Haunted Trail has been serving up terror to San Diegans who are brave enough to go for a leisurely stroll through the woods of Balboa Park.  This is San Diego’s only all-outdoor haunted attraction and this mile long trail of terror has patrons screaming with delight. While this haunt has the distinction of being completely outdoors you’ll make your way through many scenes of terror connected to the path that only become more terrifying as you progress.  You’ll encounter a school bus filled with zombie prisoners, as well as come face to face with some familiar fiends from your favorite horror films.  For an outdoor attraction The Haunted Trail offers a high level of entertainment with some really well done effects....