If you are looking for a very Colorado way to spend a fall afternoon, head southwest of Denver and get a little lost.
The Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms has brought back its annual Giant Corn Maze for 2026, and this year's design celebrates a major Colorado milestone: the state's 150th anniversary. The 8-acre maze incorporates Colorado state symbols into its twists, turns, and dead ends, making this year's experience feel especially fitting for the Centennial State.
Get Lost in an 8-Acre Colorado Maze
The main attraction is exactly what it sounds like: an enormous cornfield transformed into a maze that takes approximately an hour to complete. This year's design features the Rocky Mountain columbine and bighorn sheep, two recognizable Colorado symbols worked into the maze itself.
There is also a bridge overlooking the maze, giving visitors a chance to see the full design from above before heading back in to figure out the way out.
And yes, getting lost is part of the fun. The maze has plenty of twists, turns, and dead ends, but a security crew is stationed throughout the maze to help visitors if they need it.
More Than Just a Corn Maze
The fall outing does not have to end when you find the exit.
Children 10 and younger can explore a separate mini maze, while classic yard games including cornhole, giant Jenga, Connect Four, and giant checkers are available around the event area. Families can also take part in a photo scavenger hunt that incorporates Colorado history and fun facts.
There are plenty of fall treats to grab while you are there, too, including apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, caramel apples, kettle corn, roasted nuts, corndogs, brats, and other seasonal favorites. Visitors can also bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, as long as beverages are factory sealed.
Once you have conquered the maze, Chatfield Farms offers even more to explore, including Deer Creek Discovery, a wildlife observation area, and the farm's barnyard animals.
A Fall Tradition With a Colorado Twist
The 2026 theme makes this year's maze particularly timely. Colorado joined the Union as the 38th state on August 1, 1876, so 2026 marks the state's 150th anniversary.
That milestone is reflected right in the cornfield, turning a familiar fall activity into a small celebration of Colorado itself.
And Chatfield Farms is worth the trip beyond the maze. The property is a 700-acre native plant refuge and working farm along Deer Creek in southern Jefferson County, with historic buildings, nature trails, gardens, and plenty of open space to explore.
Plan Your Visit
The Giant Corn Maze runs Fridays through Sundays from September 18 through November 1, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Chatfield Farms, located at 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Road in Littleton. Advance tickets are recommended, and the last maze entry is at 5 p.m.
2026 Corn Maze admission:
Adults: $22
Seniors 65+: $20
Children ages 3–15: $14
Children 2 and younger: Free
Members receive discounted admission.
One practical tip from the Gardens: wear good walking shoes and dress for changing weather. The maze paths can become muddy after rain, and you will want shoes you do not mind getting a little dirty.
Whether you are bringing the kids, planning a fall date, or simply looking for something different to do outside Denver, the 2026 Giant Corn Maze is a fun way to celebrate the season and a little bit of Colorado history at the same time.