To celebrate the fall season, Webb Ranch offers a haunted house, a corn maze, and a newly added wooden ball run. For its pumpkin patch and festive activities, Webb Ranch, located in Portola Valley, opens its gates annually from Sept. 25 to Oct. 31.
Ranch manager Atlee Frachette ’03 M-A alum, grew up on the ranch and shared fond memories. “[I enjoyed] being able to go out and see all the fruits and vegetables growing every year, and getting to be a part of that growing and picking experience,” A. Frachette said.
Near the ranch entrance, children fill their wagons with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. All of which are locally sourced, most from the ranch itself. “We grow about 20 acres here on the property,” Jonathan Frechette said. “We try to stagger when we plant them to when we pick them, so that we always have some here on the lot.” When that is not enough, they source additional pumpkins from Half Moon Bay.
“We offer a nice variety of pumpkins for all your fall shopping,” A. Frechette said. They offer pumpkins in many colors, from green and yellow to white and orange, and in sizes ranging from small to large enough to require a wagon to reach the checkout line.
The corn maze is a highlight for many children, featuring haystacks kids can jump over, followed by a slide. Later in the maze, other obstacles, including logs and tires, must be run around to get through. The hardest obstacle just before the tires is a rope that children have to use to swing across a mud puddle.
The wooden ball run, a new addition, is a life-size wooden marble course. Before beginning the marble run, participants must pick up a fist-sized wooden ball. Afterward, the ball travels along multiple tracks and completes a variety of challenges, including turns and jumps. “I kind of forced [my husband] into it,” A. Frechette said. “It’s been a hit with the kids, and it’s fun for the adults too.”
Community members highlight the welcoming atmosphere at the ranch. “It [has] a traditional family farm feel, and we try to keep it that way,” A. Frechette said.
Overall, Webb Ranch provides an adventurous place for families with young children who need a day out not too far from home. Many enjoy the variety of activities that suit different ages and interests, including a petting zoo, pony rides, and tractor rides.
