It’s the season when fear is fun. So goes the theory, anyway. We put it to the test opening night for the Haunted Hayride and Haunted Barn at Dan Patch Stables.

Located next to the entrance for the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, Dan Patch is tastefully decorated with orange lights leading into the grounds where a delightful Halloween experience awaits patrons.

Hoping to ease into this thing, we chose to come early – the first wagons go out at 6 p.m. – because that’s considered the most kid-friendly time. Who knows? We might want to come back with the grandkids. The scary stuff is dialed back a bit so parents with smaller children can feel more confident. Fright-freaks should take a later ride.

On arrival, you’ll likely see staff dressed in costume, directing drivers toward ample free parking on the grounds. A quick visit to the ticket booth and it’s time to go.

The tractor-pulled wagons hold 30 seated riders. Ours was full and we enjoyed the youngsters, many of whom arrived in costume. We encouraged a little Hulkster across from us to take responsibility for protecting the entire wagon. His brave smile signaled acceptance of hazardous duty.

Kim Krueger, owner of Dan Patch Stables, sat next to us and talked about his long history with the attraction and how the Halloween experience evolved.

He credits his late son, Codie Krueger, with moving the project forward years ago. Growing the experience through the years, Codie even built a zipline that – without spoiling anything – patrons will find is an integral part of the ride.

Kim first worked at the stables as a youth when it was part of the old Playboy Club. Among his memories are serving celebrities at the stables, such as Sonny and Cher and the Jackson Five. It’s a family affair now, owned by Kim and wife Jamie, who have adopted and fostered children and made them part of the operation. Daughter Jessica is the year-round horse wrangler who manages the stables.

A few ride facts: Watch your step heading to the wagon. It’s a horse farm, after all. The tractor-pulled wagon winds its way through the beautiful wooded grounds of the Grand Geneva for just under half an hour. It’s everything you would expect of a Haunted Hayride. Spooky sounds. Scary stuff hanging from trees. Assorted ghosts and ghouls and devils hollering and jumping about (on later rides, they jump right into the wagon).

Note: For parents of young kids, those on our ride handled it all like champs.

Next up, the Haunted Barn. Full disclosure: Stephanie had to be coaxed, because she’s not the biggest fan of dark, close quarters. “I’m doing this for you,” she could be heard telling her husband. Who was touched by the gesture, knowing that meant he’d be blamed if things went sideways.

What we heard from others departing the barn was not helpful. “I’m never going in a barn again,” said one. “Did you hear me scream?” said another. “I think I was the loudest.”

And they were running away. Really, running.

Here’s what to expect. It is dark. It is a little claustrophobic. As one wanders through, hands held straight out to feel the way, icky stuff hangs down and trickles across the head and shoulders. Costumed scary characters leap about when you least expect it. Everybody’s screaming. It’s loud.

And then you’re out. Frightening? Jolting? Creepy? Of course.

Geez, isn’t that why you came?

For those familiar with the Dan Patch layout, the pony ride area is decked out in lights with seating around a welcome campfire. It’s a comfortable atmosphere to unwind after enjoying the haunted stuff or to wait for your wagon to be called.

Adjacent is a nifty food and beverage shack with an impressive menu, in partnership with the Grand Geneva. Expect brats and hot dogs, along with tasty snacks like caramel apples, apple fritters, white cheddar popcorn and S’mores.

Grown-ups will appreciate this. There’s a full bar. Fortify yourself for the Haunted Hayride with an Old Fashioned, if it suits your fancy.

Rides go out every 20 minutes. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for kids 4-10, 3 and under free. Attractions are open Friday and Saturday nights, with the exception of adding Sunday night, October 12, during Columbus Day weekend. It’s cash only and no reservations are taken. “First come, first scared,” Kim says.

Admission to the Haunted Barn is $10 per person. For more information go to the website (danpatchstables.com).

By the way, Stephanie survived her ordeal and rewarded herself with an Old Fashioned. Courage is cool.