Fort Carson, Colorado, is a bucket-list duty station for many service members. It consistently tops the list of most requested military assignments year after year, and much of Fort Carson’s appeal likely stems from its perfect, glorious fall weather.
Whether you love or hate everything pumpkin spice, the spectacular leaf show is impossible to ignore—as are the fun fall-themed adventures right outside your back door on and near Fort Carson. Plan well ahead, as there are so many activities each weekend that you’ll probably have to choose from multiple options.
1) Garden of the Gods - Colorado Springs
With your GPS on and coffee from the Trading Post in hand, the Pikes Peaks Region is not one to miss during the fall season. Choose from easy to moderate hiking trails within yellow, red, and orange vistas as far as the eye can see. Book a horseback ride at Academy Riding Stables to complete the wonderful day.
Nearby, Cripple Creek is home to the iconic golden aspen trees. On-site, Heritage Center looks over the once bustling mining town. Before heading home, stop for a well-earned treat at the Donut Mill, a local favorite.
2) Ferrara's Happy Apple Farm - Penrose
If fall is synonymous with a "You Pick" Farm experience, Happy Apple Farm is the place to be. Admission, parking, and hay rides are free, and pets are welcome. Bring a bag to pick apples, then hop on the wagon to the pumpkin patch. To round out the experience, head to the Country Store, where you'll find tasty baked goods, jellies, apple butter, sandwiches, and hard-pressed cider in the Country Store.
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3) Fall Fest - Fort Carson MWR
Fort Carson's Fall Fest is the perfect family-friendly event with craft vendors, live music, bounce houses, and great food. Performances include a German dance group, an interactive Maypole dance, and stilt-walking performers.
You'll also find a fire poi spinner performance. You can grab bounce house wristbands for the kids early for $10 at Outdoor Recreation or $15 on the day.
4) Rock Ledge Ranch - Colorado Springs
Right across the street from the Garden of Gods lies Rock Ledge Ranch with its own version of a fall festival to share with the public. Favorites such as horse-drawn wagon rides, food vendors, a you-pick pumpkin patch, and a candy scramble are just the beginning of the fun adventures throughout the day.
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5) Diana’s Pumpkin Patch - Canon City
Diana’s Pumpkin Patch is known for its traditional fall and Halloween activities, but the corn maze attracts the crowds. Admission is $15 per person, and those interested in visiting multiple times can purchase a season pass for unlimited visits. If you come in the evening, bring a flashlight to help you navigate the maze!
6) Boo at the Zoo - Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs
Every great zoo needs a Boo at the Zoo event! The late afternoons are cooler, animals are more active, and trick-or-treating along the zoo path is just plain fun. Younger kids love the decorations and easy trails, while parents enjoy the less frantic pace.
7) Wishing Star Farm Fall Fest—Ellicott
Wishing Star Farm's Fall Fest is a must. Admission grants access to the petting zoo, hay rides, barrel train, a giant jumping pillow, and the hay pyramid. There's everything from tire swings to corn bins and a pallet maze.
Enjoy pony rides for $7 (for kids under 65 lbs) and pumpkins for $7. Yummy food is available for purchase, including pretzels and food truck fare on certain days.
These exciting events are just a taste of what the Fort Carson area offers during the fall months. Just be sure to schedule enough time to sneak in a few s’mores, campfires, and football games to check off all the must-do fall festivities!
