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Out and About in the Autumn Air

Fall events for the outdoor kid

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Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes

Whether you're 8 or 80, there's something undeniably magical about spending the day in an autumnal wonderland. And Central Oregon has no shortage of places to experience that other worldly combination of gnarled squash in a rainbow of hues, corn mazes carved in the shape of popular characters, and downhome farm friendliness. There's no age limit on haystack rides, shooting pumpkins out of cannons, or riding ponies (though there may be a weight restriction on that one). A picture-perfect weekend for kids of all ages and the young at heart.

Noon-6 pm, Fridays

10 am-6 pm, Saturdays and Sundays

Smith Rock Ranch

1250 NE Wilcox Ave., Terrebonne

10 am-5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays

DD Ranch

3836 NE Smith Rock Way

All About The Horses ;

While we could just let the event name stand alone (it is, after all, all about the horses), there's more to this event than meets the eye. Expect two full days of activities, including a performance by Country and Western musician Michael Martin Murphy; the fancy feats of Dynamite Dames, Red Feather Woman, Rhinestone Roper, Leapin' Louie; a cowboy circus; a wild mustang competition and auction; and more.

9 am, Saturday, Oct. 24 & Sunday, Oct. 25

Deschutes County Expo Center

3800 SW Airport Way

$15-$50

Zombie Run

This race is for everyone who says they only run when being chased—and those who wish it was socially acceptable for adults to chase people without meeting pepper spray or a police officer. Runners choose whether to play the part of the brain-hungry monster, or the crafty survivor. To win, either hold onto your "blood" flags, or reach the finish with the most.

6 pm, Friday, Oct. 30.

Downtown Bend

$20-$35 to participate, free to watch

Cyclocross Crusade & Warehouse Bash

When the opportunity arises to don a goofy outfit while killing it on your cyclocross bike, we recommend taking it. This two-day event has something for everyone, including non-cyclists. After riding or watching the 1,000 or so costumed cyclists compete for Cross Crusade points, everyone celebrates at the infamous Deschutes Halloween party. There's even a special prize for beefier contestants. Visit crosscrusade.com to register.

8 am races Saturday, Oct. 31 & Sunday, Nov. 1

8 pm party, Saturday, Oct. 31

Deschutes Brewery, Old Mill

$15 party (benefitting Oregon Adaptive Sports)

I Like Pie Run

Though the name of the event includes the word run, the only thing required to participate is a fondness for pies. Runners and walkers alike are welcome at this family-friendly fun run that culminates in, what else, stuffing one's pie hole with glorious pie. (The breakfast of champions and a great way to prep for the binging that awaits.) Important detail: This is a BYOP event. Whether or not you choose to enter your pie in the tasting competition, everyone is encouraged to bring one to share. Choose from 2k, 5k, 10k, or 10-mile routes.

9 am, Thursday, Nov. 26

Mirror Pond Plaza

NW Brooks St.

Suggestion donation, $5 and 5 lbs. of food for NeighborImpact