Hyde Farms is a unique fall experience with a wholesome twist designed to entertain and educate visitors. Located at 7545 Highway 411 South near Greenback, about 12 miles south of Maryville Wal-Mart.

Hyde Farms has two eight-acre corn fields with a maze in each, but the most popular addition this year is the only cotton field in East Tennessee where visitors can learn what is involved with picking cotton.

“We designed it to be historical and educational, with trivia questions along the path of the maze to guide them. It’s quite a bit different from all the others,” said Hyde Farms owner Mitchell Hyde, who along with his wife Sandy, his family and friends designed Hyde Farms.

“It’s a great field trip for school students or Sunday School classes; extreme fun for all ages, and is educational,” Hyde added. He said this is the second year for the maze, but it has expanded from the previous year. “We have added so much this year.”

Visitors can take a hay ride to the big pumpkin patch and enjoy playing in the sandpile or the petting zoo with all kinds of farm animals, including horses, cows, chickens, goats, and pigs.

Youngsters who have not been exposed to farm life can learn what it’s like, where food comes from and a little about the process. It may even spur an interest in agriculture. “We will show them where their steaks and hamburgers come from, and let them pick some cotton, where their clothes come from.” Visitors say they enjoy the laid-back lifestyle.

Oct. 10, approximately 85 students from Athens North City School visited Hyde Farms. Every student interviewed agreed this was so much fun because it was different.

Don’t forget to stop by the concessions and picnic area and of course, there is always a bonfire on those chilly evenings. Also remember to call ahead and schedule your youth groups and birthday parties. The Hyde family is happy to provide a fun-filled experience for all who visit.

Visitors are sure to remember the visit to Hyde Farms for years to come.

Hyde Farms is open Friday afternoons 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Weekdays by appointment only 9 a.m – 2 p.m. only for field trips and scheduled groups. (discounted rates available) Contact Mitchell Hyde at (865) 856-6993, or (423) 667-6981 or visit their website, http://hydefarms.net/. The address is 7545 Hwy 411 South, Greenback, Tenn. 37742.  Reservations can be made now for this year or advance reservations for next year also.

We’ll see ya’ll at the farm!

By Wes Hall