Ms. Hsu shared her excitement about the experiences awaiting visitors, noting that they can not only soak in the breathtaking natural scenery but also encounter a metallic horse statue that captures the essence of “Horsetown USA.” As Halloween approaches, celebrations are springing up across the United States, and one standout attraction is a massive orange rock perched on a hillside in Norco, California. Known as “Pumpkin Rock,” this striking landmark draws thousands of visitors each year, particularly during the Halloween season when residents and tourists flock to snap photos.
Towering at an impressive 15 feet, Pumpkin Rock features a rounded silhouette painted in a bright orange hue, complete with a cheerful jack-o’-lantern face, perfectly encapsulating the Halloween spirit. The 1.7-mile Pumpkin Rock Trail, lined with beautiful wildflowers, offers a moderate hiking experience that is both dog-friendly and accessible to horseback riders, allowing a diverse group of visitors to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Interestingly, Pumpkin Rock’s backstory dates back to 1994, when it was originally known as “Elephant Butt Rock” because of a gray crack that resembled an elephant’s rear. The identity of the artist behind the pumpkin makeover remains a mystery, but its whimsical appearance has turned it into a must-visit location during Halloween.
Norco’s planning department has looked into ways to preserve and manage the rock, even considering seasonal repainting themed around different holidays. However, these ideas were ultimately put on hold due to environmental concerns. Currently, maintaining the iconic Pumpkin Rock relies on volunteers who diligently reapply paint to keep it vibrant. While some critics contend that the paint disrupts the natural landscape and could pose environmental challenges, supporters argue that it functions as a quirky art installation, attracting families for hikes and horseback riding.
Alongside Pumpkin Rock, the trail also showcases other engaging features, including a lighted “USA” sign and the metallic horse statue, which capture the attention of tourists. Although some areas along the trail suffer from graffiti and litter, the overall vibe is lively and joyful, especially as Halloween approaches, enhancing the local community’s festive spirit.
Reflecting on her experiences, Ms. Hsu, an enthusiastic visitor, revealed that she and her friends stumbled upon Pumpkin Rock through social media. Intrigued, they made a trip of about 30 minutes to check it out. Despite the trail’s seemingly short journey—taking roughly 20 minutes to reach the rock—she cautioned about the steep incline, describing it as “super steep and a bit dangerous,” noting that her heart rate soared to 159 beats per minute during the climb, leaving her feeling “exhausted.” Nevertheless, she felt the effort was worth it, adding an extra touch of fun to their Halloween adventure. The awe-inspiring sight of Pumpkin Rock paired with the stunning views made their outing truly unforgettable.