by devadmin | Apr 15, 2026 | Fall Family Activities
When the air gets crisp and the leaves begin to turn, most people think of cozy sweaters, hot cider, and pumpkin spice everything. Here at Pope Farms, we think about one thing: the culmination of months of hard work.
While we love seeing the thousands of families who visit us from September through October, we often get asked, “What do you do the rest of the year?”
The truth is, creating the ultimate Colorado corn maze experience isn’t just a seasonal job for us—it’s a year-round passion project. It takes a family, a lot of dedication, and an incredible amount of logistical planning to transform 10 acres of standing corn into a twisting, turning adventure.
Before we dive into the dirt on how we pull it all off, we want to make sure you don’t miss out on the fun this year! Our season is short, running only from September 19th through November 1st.
Join Us This Fall!
Ready for an unforgettable autumn adventure?
Secure Your Tickets Online Today!
The Winter Blueprint: Designing the Masterpiece
Creating a world-class corn maze near Denver doesn’t happen by accident. In fact, the work begins when the snow is still on the ground. When you see our finished 10-acre maze, you’re looking at a carefully constructed piece of living landscape art.
The design process starts early in the year. We sit down as a family and brainstorm themes. Sometimes it’s a celebration of local Colorado culture, other times it’s a standard classic fall theme. Once we have a concept, the real engineering begins.
We don’t just wander into the field with weed whackers! We use sophisticated GPS technology to “paint” our design onto the field when the corn is only a few inches high. This ensures precise, intricate paths that are both challenging and fair. We take great pride in making sure every turn is a memory in the making for our guests.
Springtime Preparation: Planting the Seeds of Fun
The foundation of a great Colorado corn maze isn’t the design; it’s the corn itself. While we are busy designing paths, we are also working on the farm equipment and testing the soil. To get towering, thick corn by late September, we need perfect planting conditions.
Planting the maze requires precise cross-planting techniques to create a dense foliage that you can’t see through, enhancing the challenge and the immersion. But we aren’t just planting corn in the spring.
Prepping the Pumpkin Patch
Our 10-acre maze is only one part of the equation. We are simultaneously preparing 30 acres to become our extensive Pumpkin Patch. We plant 50 different varieties of pumpkins, ensuring that whether you want a tiny decoration or a massive giant for carving, you will find your perfect “patch perfect” match. We work hard to ensure we have a colorful, picturesque backdrop perfect for family photos.
Summer Care: Navigating Growth and Preparing the Grounds
Throughout the summer, we are mostly in “care” mode. We manage irrigation, monitor for pests, and pray for the right balance of rain and Colorado sunshine. While the crops are growing, our focus shifts to preparing the rest of the farm’s Attractions.
Setting up Pope Farms for the public is a massive undertaking. We are a family-friendly destination, and we want to ensure everything is perfect. Over the summer, we:
- Construct and Inspect our Zip Line: Our high-flying Zip Line is a fan favorite, requiring strict safety checks and setup before opening day.
- Test the Pumpkin Cannons: You haven’t truly experienced fall until you’ve seen a pumpkin fly! We get our Pumpkin Cannons and the famous “Pumpkin Plunge Slide” ready for action.
- Prepare the Hayrides: A classic fall tradition, we prepare our tractors and wagons for scenic hayrides around the property.
- Ready the Play Areas: From the bounce pillows and duck races to the wall ball and sandbox, every inch of the farm gets a safety check and a fresh coat of paint if needed.
Creating a safe, fun, and varied environment is key to making maze memories that last a lifetime.
The August Cut: Carving the Paths and Preparing for the Dark
By August, the corn is tall, and the paths are established, but the real shaping begins. We use machinery guided by that same precision GPS data to maintain the maze paths and ensure they are clean, walkable, and easy to navigate—at least, as easy as a maze should be!
The Haunted Nights Prep
We also use this time to prepare for our specific October special events. While families love our maze during the day, we know that many visitors search for the ultimate haunted corn maze in Colorado. Preparing the maze for “Haunt Nights” on October Fridays and Saturdays is a different challenge altogether.
We have to map out scare zones, set up spooky lighting, and place props in a way that provides thrills while maintaining safety in the dark. It’s a completely different atmosphere from the cheerful family fun of the daytime.
September Countdown: The Scent of Autumn and Final Checks
As September arrives, the anticipation reaches its peak. This is when the visual magic comes together. We decorate with straw bales, corn stalks, and our vibrant pumpkins. This is also when we turn our attention to the concessions that make Pope Farms so special.
A day out at the farm is a delightful experience filled with fun and laughter, but it’s not complete without seasonal treats. We spend the final weeks sourcing the finest apple cider slushies, prepping the pizza ovens, and dialing in the recipe for our legendary hot donuts and caramel apples. We want the smell of autumn to greet you the moment you arrive.
The Pope Family Passion: Sharing the Farm with You
Why do we do all this work, year after year, just for a few short weeks of operation? Because we are passionate about agriculture and passionate about community. We love seeing families disconnect from their devices and reconnect with each other in the crisp Colorado air. We love hearing the laughter in the maze and the cheers at the pumpkin cannons.
Our mission is to provide you with everything you need to make your day smooth and enjoyable. Whether you are navigating winding paths carved through towering corn, racing family to the finish, or gathering around a cozy campfire as the sun begins to set, we want you to create unforgettable fall days together.
Before you make the drive, be sure to check our FAQ page for details on hours, parking, what to wear, and stroller access to make the most of your visit.
We’ve put in the work all year, and now we are ready to share it with you. The season is short, running only on weekends starting Saturday, September 19th through November 1st. Don’t let autumn pass you by without a trip to the farm.
Plan Your Perfect Fall Day Trip
Get ready for a day full of laughter, discovery, and autumn memories at Pope Farm.
Get Your Tickets Online Now!
by devadmin | Mar 25, 2026 | Fall Family Activities
When the July sun is beating down and the days are long, you might find yourself scrolling through your phone looking for things to do near Wiggins CO. Usually, summer searches bring up local pools, hiking trails, or weekend road trips. Your mind might not immediately jump to towering stalks of corn, crisp autumn breezes, or carrying a giant pumpkin to your car.
But here at Pope Farms, summer is actually one of our busiest and most exciting seasons! While our gates aren’t officially open for visitors to wander the maze just yet, our team is working around the clock beneath the Colorado summer sun. We are planting, planning, and preparing to bring you the most spectacular autumn experience in Morgan County.
If you have ever wondered exactly what goes into creating your favorite local fall destination, you are in the right place. Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at a Pope Farms summer, discover why right now is the perfect time to start planning your Colorado fall activities, and give you a sneak peek at the incredible attractions waiting for you this September and October.
🎟️ The Early Bird Gets the Pumpkin! (Early Ticket Access)
Before we dive into our summer farm hustle, we have a quick secret to share: fall weekends in Colorado book up incredibly fast. If you want to secure your spot, skip the planning stress, and guarantee your family’s autumn adventure, you can lock in your early corn maze tickets right now!
Get Your Pope Farms Tickets Now and Secure Your Fall Fun!
The Summer Hustle: Growing the Magic
It takes a lot of sunshine, water, and hard work to create the perfect autumn wonderland. When you visit us in the fall, you see the finished product: a sprawling landscape of vibrant orange, yellow, and red. But getting to that point requires months of dedicated summer farming. Here is what is happening on the farm right now.
Tending to 30 Acres of Pumpkins
Did you know that we grow an incredible 50 different varieties of pumpkins? They do not just appear magically in late September! Throughout the summer months, our team is carefully cultivating 30 acres of pumpkins. We monitor soil moisture, manage the vines, and ensure each gourd gets exactly what it needs to thrive.
Whether you are looking for a perfectly round pumpkin for a classic Jack-O’-Lantern, a unique warty heirloom variety for your front porch display, or a tiny gourd for a table centerpiece, the selection you will browse this fall is being grown, watered, and protected right now during the peak of summer.
Designing and Growing the 10-Acre Corn Maze
Our signature attraction is, without a doubt, the massive 10-acre corn maze. Creating a maze that is challenging, fun, and safe takes months of preparation. It begins in the early summer with planting. The hot summer months are crucial for corn growth; those long, sunny days are exactly what the stalks need to grow tall enough to completely hide the pathways by the time September rolls around.
While the corn is growing, we are also busy designing the actual layout of the maze. We map out the twists, turns, dead ends, and escape routes to ensure every visitor has an unforgettable time getting just a little bit lost!
Why You Should Plan Your Colorado Fall Activities Now
You might be wondering, “Why should I think about a pumpkin patch in the middle of summer?” It is a fair question! But as any seasoned planner will tell you, the best Colorado fall activities require a little bit of foresight.
- Beat the Rush: September and October weekends are prime time for family outings. By planning ahead, you can pick the exact date that works best for your schedule without worrying about missing out.
- Coordinate with Groups: Trying to get the whole extended family, a youth group, or a bunch of friends together? Nailing down a date in the summer gives everyone plenty of time to request time off or clear their calendars.
- Something to Look Forward To: There is a specific kind of “end of summer blues” that hits in August. Having your Pope Farms visit officially on the calendar gives you and your kids a guaranteed day of fun to anticipate as the school year begins.
A Sneak Peek: What is Waiting for You This Fall?
Now that you know how hard we are working this summer, let’s talk about the reward! When our season officially kicks off on September 19th, the farm will be packed with over 20 different attractions designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Here is a taste of the fun heading your way.
Make Maze Memories
Our 10-acre corn maze is the centerpiece of the farm. It is more than just a walk through the stalks; it is an interactive adventure. Race your friends to the finish, work together as a family to navigate the confusing corners, and enjoy the crisp autumn air. We also feature a “No Left Turn Maze” for an added brain-teasing challenge!
Heart-Pumping Farm Attractions
If you are looking for things to do near Wiggins CO that involve a bit more adrenaline, we have you covered. Pope Farms isn’t just about leisurely strolls; we have action-packed activities that will keep the kids (and the kids-at-heart) entertained for hours:
- Pumpkin Cannons: Watch pumpkins soar through the sky! It is just as incredibly satisfying as it sounds.
- The Zip Line: Catch a breeze and a unique view of the farm as you glide down our zip line.
- Paintball Gallery: Test your aim and challenge your friends in our exciting paintball setup.
- Pumpkin Plunge Slide & Hay Slide: Climb up and race down—a guaranteed hit for the younger visitors.
- Bounce Pillow & Giant Bubbles: Perfect for burning off that extra energy before the ride home.
Classic Autumn Experiences
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, we have preserved all the classic, nostalgic elements of a traditional harvest festival.
- Take a scenic Hay Ride across the property.
- Let the little ones explore the Corn Bin and the Sand Box.
- Wander the 30 acres of fields to find your absolute perfect pumpkin.
- Visit our Twister House for a unique, dizzying experience.
Seasonal Treats and Campfire Nights
No fall adventure is complete without the flavors of the season. After you have conquered the maze and launched a few pumpkins, you can visit our concession areas to refuel. We serve up hot, fresh pizza and warm donuts that pair perfectly with our signature Apple Cider Slushies.
As the sun begins to set over the Colorado plains, the temperature drops, and the farm takes on a cozy, magical glow. We invite our guests to gather around a warm campfire, share stories about the day, and enjoy the perfect end to a memorable family outing.
Prepare for the Scares: Haunt Nights Are Coming
While our daytime hours are entirely family-friendly and focused on wholesome harvest fun, we have a special surprise waiting for the thrill-seekers. During the summer, our most devious team members are busy plotting our infamous October Haunt Nights!
On Friday and Saturday nights throughout October (starting at 7:00 PM), the corn maze transforms. The shadows grow longer, the rustling of the corn sounds a little more sinister, and our terrifying actors take their places. If you love a good scare and want to experience the maze in a completely different (and much more terrifying) light, you will want to mark your calendars for these special events.
Note: If you have questions about whether the Haunt Nights or specific attractions are right for your family, be sure to check out our comprehensive FAQ page for all the details on what to expect!
Wrap Up Your Summer by Booking Your Fall!
We love the summer season here in Wiggins, CO, because it is the season of growth and preparation. Every drop of water and hour of sunshine is building toward those perfect, crisp autumn weekends that we get to share with you.
While you are enjoying the pool, firing up the grill, and soaking in the last few weeks of summer vacation, take five minutes to be the hero of your friend group or family. Lock down your weekend plans now so that when September arrives, all you have to do is show up, grab an Apple Cider Slushy, and step into the fun.
🍁 Ready to Step Into Autumn?
Don’t wait until the leaves start changing to figure out your weekend plans. Tickets for the 2026 season (running from September 19th to November 1st) are available right now.
Click Here to Purchase Your Tickets and Guarantee Your Spot at Pope Farms!
