Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard Walks:
Making Fall Traditions More Active
There are so many reasons to love fall: the colorful trees, the sounds of crunchy leaves under your feet, the crisp fall smell, the fun Halloween decorations, the pumpkin spice lattes and apple cider donuts. And then there are the fall traditions: the apple picking adventures (which inevitably leave you with more apples than you will ever be able to consume) and the pumpkin patch visits (complete with all of the fun fall activities).
Fortunately for walkers—and anyone else who’s just trying to stay active—fall traditions were made just for us. Whether you’re making your way through that crowded pumpkin patch, getting lost in the corn maze, wandering through rows of apple trees, or searching for the perfect pumpkin, you’re already getting your steps in. But if you want to take full advantage of those fun fall activities, here are some ways to make your fall traditions even more active.
Make the Adventure Your Walk
When life gets busy, we may find ourselves trying to figure out how to fit a walk into our schedule. Instead of looking at it that way, though, ask yourself how you can turn your weekend adventures into a walk!
It doesn’t have to be complicated—and you don’t have to find separate walking time. Instead, park at the far end of the apple orchard parking lot. Explore the entire pumpkin patch (twice!). Walk past all of the stands at the farmers market before deciding where to stop. And make one last lap before you head home.
Apple Orchard Walks
If you’re in a hurry, it’s easy to find a tree, pick some apples, take some cute pictures, and go. But then you’re not getting those extra steps—and you’re not really getting your money’s worth, either. Make it an experience—and take the time to explore.
While you’re there:
– Walk through several rows before deciding on the perfect one for picking.
– Explore different areas—and different types of apple trees.
– Make a loop around the orchard to take it all in.
– Turn it into a challenge! Find the biggest apple, the reddest apple, the most interesting-looking tree, the best place to take a picture.
And don’t forget to finish with cider (and maybe a donut or two, too)!
Pumpkin Patch Walks
The apple orchard tips also apply to wandering through the pumpkin patch and looking for just the right pumpkin.
Where I live though, pumpkin patches aren’t just for pumpkins. They often include a corn maze, a petting zoo, various rides, a market, a cafe, and more. And that makes it the perfect place for getting extra steps.
While you’re there:
– Make sure you walk past every attraction.
– Walk to the farthest end of the pumpkin patch and take a picture of the entire farm.
– Choose activities that will boost your step count—like mini golf.
– Explore all of the barns—and pet the animals!
– Join in a scavenger hunt. If the pumpkin patch doesn’t have one, create your own! Include some general items (like finding the biggest pumpkin, a hay bale, and a jack-o’-lantern) and some that are specific to the patch you’re visiting (like specific attractions and activities).
And, of course…
Make the Corn Maze Count
The corn maze doesn’t have to be something separate from your regular walking routine; it can be your walk for the day!
While some people may race to see how quickly they can get out of the maze, take advantage of the chance to get some extra steps.
While you’re there:
– Track your corn maze walk as a workout. If your walking app maps your walk, share the final image.
– Don’t fear the wrong turns. Getting lost just means more steps!
– Make it a walking adventure for the whole family.
– See how long you can stay in the maze—and how far you walk in the process.
– Take pictures at the beginning and the end of the maze.
Make It a Fall Photo Walk
Your fall traditions are the perfect time to join in the October Walk & Snap Challenge! Use the image provided, and see how many items you can find during your adventure!
You can also make your own photo walk list. Include things like:
– The best pumpkin
– The biggest apple
– Your favorite farm animal
– Corn stalks
– A fall decoration
– Your fall walking beverage
Don’t Forget the Coffee (or Cider)!
While you’re enjoying your fall adventures, be sure to treat yourself, too!
If your favorite apple orchard or pumpkin patch has its own cafe, grab yourself a coffee or cider before you begin your walk. If not, stop by your favorite coffee shop before or after your visit. You can enjoy your drink while you walk—or make it your post-walk treat!
Make It a Game!
Visiting your favorite apple orchard or pumpkin patch is a fun fall tradition for the whole family—but you can add to the fun with a little Walking Bingo!
Save the bingo card image, and join in some fall walking bingo fun! Use it as your own personal fall challenge—or share with friends or family to see who can get bingo (or fill the whole card) first.
No Apple Orchard or Pumpkin Patch Nearby?
Or just don’t love dealing with the crowds of families that show up on sunny Saturday afternoons? No problem! Create your own fall walking tradition by visiting one or more of these:
– Farmers market
– Fall festival
– Craft fair or fall flea market
– Garden center
– School or community event
– Or just explore your neighborhood’s Halloween decorations!
Make Fall Fun—and Active!
You don’t need to find extra room in your schedule every single day for a walk. Sometimes it just means taking a look at the things you already have planned—and looking at them a little differently.
Fall is full of fun activities for the whole family—and those fun activities are also perfect for getting some extra steps in. Don’t forget to take full advantage of the opportunities to enjoy both fun family time and extra movement!
Do you have any favorite fall traditions? What are some places that your family loves to explore this time of year?
