Fall Harvest Fun for El Pasoans: Pick Pumpkins in the Mountains of New Mexico

Pumpkin pickers looking for a change of scenery and family fun can make a day trip out of it in the mountains of New Mexico the last two weekends in October.

Nichols Ranch and Orchards offers El Paso-area families the opportunity to get into the spirit of the season with a day trip to the family-run farm located in the Sacramento Mountains outside of La Luz, New Mexico, about 20 minutes from Alamogordo.

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Whether the plan is to decorate, carve, or use the orange gourds as front door décor, the Pumpkin Patch at Nichols Ranch is a fun excuse to get out of town for the day, enjoy the mountain views and let the kids run around and blow off some of their abundant energy in fresh mountain air.

And, of course, pick pumpkins.

The Pumpkin Patch at Nichols Ranch and Orchards

The pumpkin picking fun will take place over the last two weekends of the month: October 23 and 24, and October 30 and 31. The hours each weekend is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pumpkin prices will range from $3 to $18 based on size. There is no admission fee.

Activities for the Kids

Runyan Ranches is bringing its petting zoo with all the friendly animals the kids can feed, pet, and take pictures of. Carnival games and a kid's train will also be part of the fall fun.

Vendors & Entertainment

Food trucks, candy and drink vendors, and live entertainment will add to the festive weekend getaway. Along with a large assortment of differently-sized pumpkins, apples, jars of raw honey and jams, and cherry and apple cider will be available for purchase.

How to Get There

Nichols Ranch and Orchards is located 7 miles East of La Luz, NM, about 20 minutes from Alamogordo. You can find driving directions HERE.