Pumpkin Hike Fun

Last Saturday Heather and her family were gracious enough to take me and my boys to the Annual Pumpkin Hike at Alley Park. This was our first Pumpkin Hike and the boys were VERY excited. They were not disappointed. We arrived early, as Heather suggested in her recent blog post. It did make a difference and parking was not too bad. It was still light out when we began the walk, which did mean that we didn't get to experience the pumpkins in their full lit glory but also meant it was easier to keep an eye on the 5 boys running ahead of us. We were greeted graciously by the owners of Neeley's Farm, who donated all of the pumpkins. Then we proceeded to walk around the lake, enjoying all of the creatively carved pumpkins, as it gradually become dark and the pumpkins lit up. It is a beautiful walk and one I won't miss again!

At the end of the walk, the boys really enjoyed roasting hotdogs over the open fires and drinking hot chocolate and apple cider. There was a large, lit-up, pumpkin totem pole that was very cool. The pumpkin each of the boys got before we left the park was their very favorite part and we had to carve them the next day.

It really was a great time and I would encourage all families to attend next year. Some thoughts - go early if you have rambunctious children (like I do) as it is a little easier to watch them when there is a little light, purchase the glow sticks that they sell at the beginning of the walk (this is the only way I was able to see my children at the end!), bring marshmallows if your kids like them as they would be fun to roast, and carry the little ones (I don't think a stroller would make it). Thanks Heather and family! We had a great time!