El Paso, Texas (KFOX14) — Okay, this was fun. We went to La Union Maze expecting the maze to be the whole story. It turns out the maze is only the beginning.

At this farm in Anthony, New Mexico, families can build an entire fall day around a 13-acre maze, pumpkin and flower picking, farm attractions, comfort food and special events. There are more than 20 attractions to explore, so this is not the kind of place where you walk one path, take one photo and head home.

We met with La Union Maze manager Kristen Dorman to find out what families can expect during the 2026 fall season. This year’s maze design honors New Mexico agriculture, including the farmers, ranchers, crops, traditions and communities that have shaped the state. The design also includes “250” in recognition of the nation’s anniversary.

Two Ways to Take On the 13-Acre Maze“The highlight, of course, is every year we do our 13-acre maze,” Dorman told us.

The maze is divided into two experiences. The shorter route can take approximately 15 to 20 minutes, while the longer and more challenging route can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Naturally, that depends on how good your group is at navigating and how quickly everyone agrees on which way to turn.

“The 13-acre maze is split into two separate mazes,” Dorman explained.

That setup gives families the option to choose a quicker walk or commit to the bigger challenge.

The maze may be the centerpiece, but it shares the farm with jumping pillows, slides, cow trains, pig races, rubber duck races, pedal cars, farm animals, the Canna Fairytale Trail and more. Some activities, including the cow trains and wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, are only available during daylight hours.

Pumpkins, Gourds and Flowers You Can Pick

The pumpkin patch is another major part of the visit.

“We grow over 30 different varieties of pumpkins and gourds,” Dorman said. “This year we’re pairing that with a sunflower and zinnia patch where you can go and also pick your own flowers.”

Guests can take a wagon ride out to the patch and choose pumpkins for carving, cooking or decorating. The farm also offers gourds, mini pumpkins, flowers and tomatoes.

Because the wagon ride stops before sunset, this is one activity we would not save until the end of the day.

Come Hungry and Wear Actual Walking Shoes

We asked Dorman what first-time visitors should bring, and her first recommendation was immediate.

“Number one, good pair of walking shoes,” she said.

That is solid advice. This is a working farm with dirt paths, a large maze and enough activities to keep families moving for hours. One sealed water bottle per person is allowed, and Dorman also recommended bringing bug spray. Comfortable shoes, layers for cooler evenings and insect repellent can make the experience much easier.

Then there is the food.

Roasted corn remains one of the signature choices, while the brisket nachos have built their own following.

“We have our brisket nachos. They are a fan favorite,” Dorman said. “But we have some new items this year like our loaded brisket mac and cheese. It’s phenomenal. You have to try it.”

Honestly, a long walk through the maze followed by loaded brisket mac and cheese feels like a very reasonable fall plan.

La Union Maze’s Final Weekend Events

La Union Maze’s 2026 season runs through Sunday, Nov. 8. The final weekend includes a fireworks and drone show, Pumpkin Smash activities and the annual Bring Your Dog to the Maze Day.

“Saturday, we will be doing our annual firework and drone show as a finale,” Dorman said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

The fireworks and drone finale is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7. Pumpkin Smash activities are planned for Nov. 7 and 8, followed by Bring Your Dog to the Maze Day on Sunday, Nov. 8.

Dogs attending the Sunday event must remain leashed, and visitors should bring their pets’ shot records.

At the time of our interview, Dorman also said the Haunted Maze was planned for Friday and Saturday of the final weekend. Because the Haunted Maze is only offered on select eligible evenings, guests should confirm availability before choosing a date.

Planning Your Visit From El Paso or Las Cruces

La Union Maze is located at 1101 Highway 28 in Anthony, New Mexico.

Regular 2026 hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. Hours and attraction availability may change because of weather or farm conditions, so checking for updates before leaving is a smart move.

The venue encourages visitors to complete their waivers online before arriving. Guests should also plan to use a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or a La Union Maze gift card for most purchases.

We went looking for what was new and left with a much bigger checklist than expected. Between the maze, flowers, pumpkin patch, rides, farm animals and food, La Union Maze remains one of those Borderland fall stops that can easily turn into the better part of a day.

And yes, we are still thinking about that loaded brisket mac and cheese.

La Union Maze 2026 Season (Courtesy: KFOX14)