Scary Dog Central — Prairie Dog Central Railway

Scary Dog Central is the Prairie Dog Central Railway's Halloween takeover. It offers two experiences, both starting at Inkster Junction in Rosser, Manitoba.

The Family Fun Halloween Adventure is a daytime, not-so-scary ride for kids, parents and grandparents, with favourite characters, entertainment, themed activities and games, photos and Halloween treats. The operator says there will still be pumpkins and skeletons, and rates it suitable for all audiences.

The Train of Terror is an after-dark experience with terrifying characters, theatrical performances, scare zones and haunted attractions. The operator rates it 14A, recommends it for ages 14 and over, and does not allow full costumes, masks or face paint. On certain nights the Train of Terror gets a Rocky Horror theme, with specialty theming aboard the locomotive.

Both experiences follow the same pattern: about 90 minutes by train to the festival grounds in Warren, a stopover of about 90 minutes, and about 90 minutes back to Inkster Junction.

About 90 minutes by historic train, about 90 minutes at the festival grounds in Warren and about 90 minutes back. The family version has characters, games and treats; the Train of Terror has scare zones, haunted attractions and live performances after dark. Food and refreshments are on sale at the station and the grounds.

Both experiences begin at Inkster Junction Station, 64099 Prairie Dog Trail, Rosser, Manitoba R0H 1E0. The platform opens one hour before departure. All tickets must be bought in advance online; groups of four get a 10% discount applied at checkout. Ticket fees and taxes are added at checkout. Food and non-alcoholic drinks may be brought on board, but provincial and federal regulations prohibit alcohol at the station, on the train and at the stopover. It operates rain or shine, with possible delays, changes or cancellation in severe weather. The coaches were built in the early 1900s and cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Strollers are allowed. There are emergency washrooms on the train and facilities at the station and festival grounds.