Fall Outdoor Activities

 

In case you haven't noticed, autumn is upon us. The leaves are starting to turn colors. The weather is getting cooler. We can't go grocery shopping without seeing huge displays of Halloween costumes, decorations and candy. 'Trick or Treat' seems to be the phrase of the season. But is there anything those of us without kids or who don't want to dress up can do? Also, what about people who don't celebrate Halloween? Fear not, there are still a few things you can do that have nothing to do with ghosts or goblins.

One common fall attraction is the corn maze. You might have also heard them called 'maize mazes', using and old term for 'corn.' These aren't your grandfather's cornfield. They are cut in such a way that you have to make your way from one side to the other by following winding and twisted paths, much like the mazes we used to find in coloring books. They are often hosted by local farmers by themselves or as part of a larger 'state fair' or 'autumn attraction.' If you get lost (as I undoubtedly would), there's usually a 'tour guide' or 'host' that can help you find your way out.

Another thing that makes these 'maize mazes' fun is that they tend to be cut in unusual patterns. For instance, take a look at this one from Portsmouth, RI-

If you live near a wooded area, you can also go on a 'nature walk' and take pictures of the foliage. The picture above this post is one I took two years ago in Sky Valley, GA.

For those who would rather avoid all that walking, there are hay rides. You've probably already been on a few of these, but they're still a lot of fun. Basically you are in a cart full of hay and pumpkins attached to a horse or a tractor. You can go on a romantic evening ride with your significant other or take your kids for a fun bonding experience. If nothing else, they're a great way to get outside in the cool autumn air. Some of them may be 'haunted', but it's usually nothing too intense. As fun as these can be, the hay might be a bit much for some allergy sufferers.

Of course, no autumn would be complete without the food! Since nightfall comes earlier this time of year, it's a great time for campfire food. You can cook hotdogs and eat them right off the stick or roast marshmallows and make s'mores. Of course, these things can be done in the winter at the fireplace, but there's just something about being in the open air that makes you feel festive. Some towns also have pumpkin patches or public apple orchards.

I hope you now have a few ideas of how you can enjoy autumn apart from Halloween. As much fun as the holiday can be, there is so much more you can do with autumn that it would be a shame to forget!