LIVERMORE — The Haunted Trail of Livermore returns this year with new scares and an expanded schedule.

The trail, started several years ago by Jeff and Merry St. Pierre, is a fundraiser for Spruce Mountain High School Class of 2017. Proceeds will go toward purchasing graduation caps and gowns for the seniors and the senior class cruise on Casco Bay.

About 50 percent of class members have been involved this year. Merry said she was told that’s the most participation for any class fundraiser all year.

“This is the third year working with these kids. With jobs and sports it’s more impressive they give their time here,” she said.

Merry said she is obsessed with Halloween. She starts planning the route in June, and setup begins in September. 

“This is our life every day in September and October. It takes hours and hours of manpower. New ideas and new decorations have been added,” she said.

“A lot of work went into it this year. It’s the biggest it’s ever been,” she said.

This year, there is an expanded circus area and a new chain room. The new Choose Your Fate attraction gives guests a choice of scares. While those fates can’t be revealed here, both options provide plenty of chills.

Merry said a whole house has been incorporated this year. Once her grandmother’s, it’s now home to Briarcliff Asylum and the Psychiatric Ward. 

Also new this year are a torture area, a witch burning at the stake, a bone yard, and fog machines. Part of the Class of 2017’s homecoming float has also been included. 

Merry said 20 to 30 haunters are part of the trail each night. There are more than 100 costumes and masks to choose from.

“The trail changes every night. There are different costumes, different scares,” Merry said.

Merry’s daughter, Ladesta Tracy, is still involved with the Haunted Trail. Originally a fundraiser for her sports team, she is now the trail’s gatekeeper. 

“It gets better every year,” Ladesta said.

Merry said her goal is to have 500 people visit each night. The average has been 200 to 300. She will remain open longer if warranted, but may close early if business is slow. Minute-to-minute updates are given on the Facebook page, she said.

Sponsors for the Haunted Trail of Livermore are Otis Federal Credit Union, Ware-Butler, Franklin Printing, Pallet One, Twin River Lumber, Frazier Construction, River View Plumbing and Heating, Pine Tree Orthopedic Lab, Don’s Stove Shop and Franklin Savings Bank.

The Haunted Trail of Livermore is open from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Oct. 21, 22 and 28-31. Younger children may visit an hour earlier for a tour with fewer frights.

Tickets are $10 in advance or $13 at the gate. They may be purchased at Spruce Mountain High School and Middle School offices, and at Scissor Wizard in Jay. For a discounted price, call 207-446-9933, email merrystpierre@gmail.com or send a message on the Facebook page, Halloween Haunted Trail of Livermore.

Concessions and T-shirts may be purchased before or after completing the trail.

The Haunted Trail of Livermore is at 97 River Road.

For more information, visit www.hauntedtrailoflivermore.com.

pharnden@sunmediagroup.net