Pumpkins a plenty

Pumpkin patches are a time-honored fall tradition, with those young and old making the journey to enjoy fall in all its splendor.

Sipping apple cider, wandering through a corn maze and picking the perfect pumpkin are all part of the fun. And of course, hay rides, petting zoos, caramel apples, crafts and food for purchase can be added bonuses.

Jeff Walton, owner of Walton Farms, is looking forward to his ninth year of hosting a pumpkin patch.

At the Fern Prairie site, children and grown-ups have opportunities to feed baby goats, have unlimited rides on a “train” pulled by a tractor, wander through a corn maze and, of course, pick out pumpkins.

Last year, approximately 3,000 people visited the pumpkin patch. This year, an $8 per person admission fee has been put in place. It includes a pumpkin, corn maze, train rides and hay rides.

“I was having way too many people come out and use my stuff, and leave, and not buy a thing,” Walton said. “We were on the honor system, but people were not being honest. We just went to a flat fee. You can get everything together for one price and have a good time. It’s still very economical.”

Getting the patch ready for visitors usually begins in August and involves cutting the maze, harvesting pumpkins, raking gravel and decorating.

“This year we added a concession stand and event tent so people can have lunch and get out of the rain,” Walton said.

The corn maze is five acres and is a favorite of attendees. There is also a petting zoo, with horses and three goats.

“I just love to see families come out and enjoy everything,” he said. “Seeing them making memories is cool.”

Walton recommends wearing sturdy shoes and bringing a coat.

“People can not only enjoy all we have to offer, but now they can also eat lunch and spend the day here,” he added.

Joe’s Place Farms in east Vancouver kicked off its 34th year of hosting the well-known pumpkin patch. There, people can find anything from a 3-pound pumpkin to a 150-pound pumpkin.

In addition to 35 different varieties of colorful gourds, offerings at Joe’s include hay rides, face painting, a “fort maze,” where children can play, a corn stalk teepee, 2-acre corn maze, a 14-foot witch, a store, and food for purchase.

Those who want to venture farther down the Gorge can stop at the Skamania County Fairgrounds in Stevenson. The annual pumpkin patch event includes a trolley ride, hay bale maze, boo bingo, pumpkin bowling, creative crafts and a pumpkin to take home. The event is suitable for all ages, but best for children 2 to 9 years old.