Stalking Fall Fun

From dawn to husk, you can get lost in the twists and turns of these local corn mazes.

While intricate paths made out of hedges date back centuries, the first recorded corn mazes are, amazingly, only from the early 1980s. Since then, they have become full-on fall tourist meccas that feature games, technology and other amusements integrated with the cornstalks. These four Milwaukee-area mazes are the cream of the crop.

CREEKSIDE VALLEY FARM MEQUON

Trivia lovers, this one’s for you. Navigate the nearly 5 acres and answer trivia questions along the way. If you know your stuff, it might just help you escape more quickly. Answer wrong and you’ll find yourself at a dead end. Once you’re out, you can reward yourself with flavored popcorn or cider from the Snack Shack. Opens Sept. 16. creeksidevalleyfarmwi.com

BASSE’S TASTE OF COUNTRY COLGATE

After you hit the over 65 fall activities at this farm’s Pumpkin Fest – like the tractor pull, animal barn and big swing – get lost in the two uniquely challenging mazes. The bigger one has trivia throughout, the smaller features a murder mystery game to play while you walk. Opens Sept. 17. bassesfarms.com

LINDNER’S PUMPKIN FARM NEW BERLIN

It may not have all the bells and whistles, but this maze does have a classic, simple charm. The random pattern provides a challenge of its own. After you make your way through, you can check out the Big Backyard playground, try pumpkin bowling and feed goats at the petting zoo. Opens Sept. 16. lindnerspumpkinfarm.com

SCHUETT FARMS MUKWONAGO

With 14 acres and nearly 4 miles of paths, this maze can take up to 90 minutes to complete. For an extra challenge, you can compete against your family/friends to hit interactive checkpoints hidden throughout by connecting your phone. Afterward, brave the giant slide or take your shot with the corn cannon. Opens Sept. 23. schuettfarm.com