BRANSON CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE
Autumn at Shepherd’s: Pumpkins, a Mountain Coaster, and Hayride Evenings in Branson
A weekend-focused fall festival (Sept 20–Oct 26, 2025) on the grounds of The Shepherd of the Hills that combines pumpkin-picking, family activities, and timed attractions—this guide distills what to expect and how to plan.
Autumn at Shepherd’s: Pumpkins, a Mountain Coaster, and Hayride Evenings in Branson.
Shepherd’s Pumpkin Fest unfolds across the rolling grounds of The Shepherd of the Hills in Branson, offering a season-long pumpkin patch experience that pairs classic fall pastimes—pumpkin picking, scarecrow building and hayrides—with adrenaline notes like a mountain coaster and a two-story ropes course. The event runs on fall weekends and is designed as a daylong outing for families and small groups.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Pumpkin Picking and Family Activities
Wandering the pumpkin patch and assembling a scarecrow are central to the experience; general admission unlocks petting zoo access, bounce houses, mini golf, pumpkin painting (pumpkins sold separately) and other family-focused activities.
Copperhead Mountain Coaster and Jeep Hayrides
For higher-energy moments, opt for rides: the Copperhead Mountain Coaster is included with the Great Pumpkin Ticket, and jeep hayrides run for general admission—note that some rides close an hour before park closing and the hayride begins 30 minutes after opening.
Pumpkin Aglow Night Walk and Timed Entry
A seasonal after-dark option, the Pumpkin Aglow Night Walk is a timed 7:00 pm entry included with certain ticket packages (Great Pumpkin Ticket offers timed access); it shifts the festival’s atmosphere from daytime play to glowing lanterns and evening paths.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a full-day, family-oriented rhythm: arrive and check in at the park, move between hands-on activities in the pumpkin patch and barnyard, take scheduled rides on the coaster or ropes course if you’ve purchased the upgraded ticket, and slot in the hayride or evening Pumpkin Aglow depending on your ticket choice. The program is structured for weekend visits and typically fills a 6–8 hour window for guests.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who will get the most out of this outing—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Shepherd’s Pumpkin Fest runs on fall weekends from September 20 through October 26, 2025; plan a 6–8 hour visit and choose the date-specific ticket for the day you intend to attend.
General tickets include park entry and family activities; the Great Pumpkin Ticket (value over $85) adds the Pumpkin Aglow Night Walk (timed at 7pm), one ride on the Copperhead Mountain Coaster, the two‑story ropes course (15 minutes) and access to the Inspiration Tower. All ticket sales are final; taxes and fees are not included.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing for an outdoor fall day; pumpkins are purchased separately on site. Free parking is available at the address on W 76 Country Blvd.
Coaster, ropes course and hayride close an hour before park closing; hayride service begins 30 minutes after opening. Activities may close for inclement weather or staffing shortages.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is Shepherd’s Pumpkin Fest open?
The festival runs on fall weekends from September 20 through October 26, 2025.
Where do I go to check in?
The event meeting and check-in location is The Shepherd of the Hills at 5586 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616-8129.
What’s the difference between General and Great Pumpkin Tickets?
General tickets include park entry and the family activity offerings; the Great Pumpkin Ticket adds the Pumpkin Aglow Night Walk (timed 7pm), one Copperhead Mountain Coaster ride, the Sky Trek Ropes Course (15 minutes) and access to the Inspiration Tower.
Are tickets refundable or transferable?
All ticket purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable; tickets are date-specific and valid for a one-time use during the 2025 Fall Festival dates.
Are there age or height considerations?
Children 3 years old and under are free for general admission activities; ages 4 and up require a ticket. Some attractions have height or other requirements (for example the Mega Tube Slide) and certain rides may have restrictions—check on-site requirements before queuing.
Is parking available?
Yes—free parking is available at the park.
What happens if the weather is bad?
In the event of inclement weather or staffing issues, Shepherd of the Hills may close activities without notice; plan accordingly as tickets remain non-refundable.