We went to The Great Pumpkin Trail in Wyoming, Minnesota, and WOW!
It was exactly like the pictures advertised! Rarely have I ever attended something that was identical to the advertisements. Usually the pictures make it look better than it is but not in this case. It really was exactly what it was portrayed to be.
And I have an exclusive 15% discount to share! (Go here for my exclusive 2025 discounts!)
Our Experience
The Great Pumpkin Trail is in Wyoming, Minnesota on weekends and some weeknights through November 2nd. And you can save 15% with my code Frugalmom15.
I went with my teens to The Great Pumpkin Trail on a Sunday evening. I had heard Friday and Saturday nights are busy because it is located where both Pinehaven and The Dead End Hayride are, so there are crowds for all of those coming and going. We went on a Sunday evening and there were plenty of people, but it wasn’t overwhelming or difficult to get in or out.
Parking is free, but the lot is huge (be sure to note which section you park in). The entrance is the same for all events including Pinehaven, The Great Pumpkin Trail, and The Dead End Hayride. Then you enter into Pinehaven and a courtyard with food trucks, entertainers and some activities that are still open from Pinehaven like the ziplines and corn pit. There are tables where you can sit and eat, and fire pits where you can warm up.
After you walk through all this, you can either go left to the Great Pumpkin Trail, or right to the Dead End Hayride.
(So yes, for those who have asked, you can easily do both in one evening. However, each takes at least an hour so you will be outside that much longer – just keep that in mind.)
The Great Pumpkin Trail
Okay, let me start by saying, I took so many pictures, and there is so much to share about this place, that this review is only touching the surface. For more pictures, be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram. But better yet, go yourself to really experience it all!
When you enter the trail, there are lighted pumpkins on both sides. They are not real pumpkins but they are “carved” with recognizable characters, faces, and images. It’s fun to see them and identify them with kids. We saw Woody and Buzz from Toy Story, Charlie Brown and Snoopy, ghosts, bats, hearts, and so much more.
There is music playing in speakers the whole time you’re there including the Halloween movie theme, the Nightmare Before Christmas movie theme, Hocus Pocus music, and many more recognizable songs.
There are dancing lights on the path, and there are many photo opportunities as well.
Keep going and you’ll find paths through the woods that look just like this. Lighted pumpkins everywhere!
Keep going and you’ll find a Halloween wonderland with lighted trees and an Eiffel Tower with flashing lights (these change color).
You’ll also find a mayor and a princess in this area too. They are friendly and quirky, and may suddenly stand behind you (as the mayor did to me!), or photobomb a picture you’re taking (which they both did while I was taking a picture). They’ll of course pose for you too.
A lot of families take pictures in this area as there are many great backdrops.
Then walk a trail that goes past this area to see pumpkin “creatures” like dinosaurs.
And be sure to play on the lighted path that changes colors when you walk on it.
You can spend as long as you want here, or go back to the Pinehaven courtyard for food and warm beverages.
We spent about 45 minutes here and then another 30 minutes in the courtyard getting food and chilling (warming up?). However, you could easily spend more time here as there was some type of spooky show you could watch with live actors, or enjoy the ziplines and corn pit.
A few tips and things to note:
- For restrooms, there are only porta-potties. And they are dark. If you need them, they’re outside the entrance AND near the food trucks. Just be prepared to not really see what you’re doing (which is probably a good thing – not sure I want to see much in there).
- Dress for walking and the weather. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and wear layers. My daughter got cold but I brought gloves and hats just in case, and yes, we needed them. I recommend wearing a winter coat, a hat, and gloves at the very least (most people had these and it was in the 50s).
- To avoid crowds, I suggest going any other day besides a Friday or Saturday. Plus the prices may be cheaper. I’m glad we didn’t go on a Friday or Saturday based on feedback I heard from others. If you do go on a Friday or Saturday, or Halloween, I would plan extra time for your visit.
Tickets AND EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT!
Ticket prices vary depending on the day. Weekends are more expensive. Prices vary from $21 to $26 (taxes not included in those prices).
However, you can save money getting tickets online in advance. Prices online are $17 -21.
Ages 2 and under are FREE.
Parking is FREE!
And you can save 15% with my code Frugalmom15!
Use my code Frugalmom15 to save 15% on tickets online! This code is good for any night, general admission.
For my exclusive 2025 discounts go here!
Go to their website to get tickets and info.
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(Disclosure: We received complimentary tickets in exchange for this review of The Great Pumpkin Trail. All opinions are 100% mine.)