Hurricane Bill put a damper on opening weekend at Fort Hill Farms in Thompson, but Tropical Storm Danny could not keep dedicated corn labyrinth enthusiasts from checking out the corn maze on Saturday, Aug. 29.

Lev Levitin and his wife, Sasha Alexandra , of Brookline, Mass., both originally from Moscow, were in fine spirits despite the weather, and were the only customers adventurous enough to brave the elements and enter miles of maze where they would learn about “The Nature of Food.”

“This has been a dream for a number of years,” said Levitin, “Corn does not grow a lot in Russia.”

“We’re ready for a big walk,” said his wife, and then they disappeared into the corn field.

Fort Hill Farms, one of six Connecticut dairy farms that produce milk for The Farmer’s Cow, is owned and operated by Peter Orr and his wife, Kristin O’Leary Orr. From August to November, they host an educational corn maze with varying themes as a way to help sustain the farm. This year’s theme, “The Nature of Food,” will allow visitors to search for clues about the benefits of local food for energy, health and vitality.

“Come and learn about your local farms,” said Peter Orr during an interview at his home on Saturday afternoon.

Kristin Orr described the maze – with more than 20 interactive stations and a four-page game sheet – as both “very active and very educational.” Additionally, while many worry they might get lost in the maze, she makes sure it’s not a possibility . The maze is color-coded into sections , and staff/adventurers swap cell phone numbers, just in case. “Every corn stalk looks the same,” acknowledges Orr laughingly. “If you’re totally lost, you won’t remember what we told you about agriculture!”

Visitors to the farm can admire the hundreds of fall flowers on the property, learn about local sustainability and the life of a Connecticut dairy farmer, purchase some fresh milk or just soak up the beauty of a farm that has been in operation for generations.

Next year, the farmers hope to establish a new visitor’s center at Fort Hill, where ice cream from The Farmer’s Cow can be served. Pick your favorite flavor by visiting www.thefarmerscow.com.

The Fort Hill Farms Educational Corn Maze, located at 260 Quaddick Road in Thompson, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., on Friday and Saturday, weather permitting.

Call (860)-923-3439 in advance with questions or to schedule large groups. “Flashlight Nights” begin at dusk on Friday and Saturday only. Bring your own flashlight. The last ticket is sold one hour before closing. Adult tickets are $12, tickets for children 12 and under are $10. No pets please.

Younger maze-goers or those not wishing to walk the entire length of the maze may enjoy the Mini MOO Maze.

For more information about Fort Hill Farms, visit their Web site at www.forthillfarms .com.