You know who loves winter walks in the snow? The goats at Ten Apple Farm in Gray. And you’re welcome to join them during their afternoon meandering in the woods during a Goat Hike.
Ten Apple Farm offers Goat Hikes a few times a month, where the public can join in on the goats’ daily ritual. The goats lead the way much of time. It’s no wonder – they certainly know that 1.5-mile loop well. It’s a route they walk all year, especially in the winter, when that jaunt is their outdoor exercise for the day before heading back into the barn where it’s cozier.
Of course, sometimes the goats linger to snack on a tree or to jump and play with each other.
The goat hikes have been happening at Ten Apple Farm for years. Farm owners Karl Schatz and Margaret Hathaway first opened the hikes to neighbors who might want to join the ruminating crew on their daily ramble through the woods. Then folks started coming from farther afield.
The hikes happen a few times a month throughout the year (see tenapplefarm.com for the most up-to-date schedule) and the trek is a fairy easy-going one-mile loop in the woods behind the farm. The hike is family and beginner-friendly (although kids 4 and under must be carried) with a couple of steeper spots, but mostly a wide and well-worn trail.
Along the way, Karl and Margaret will talk about goats and you’ll learn a few things about raising and caring for them.
After the hike, you can try our hand at milking a goat and try some fresh goat milk and cookies, too.
Cost is $15 per adult, $10 for teens and seniors, $5 for kids (5-12). Snowshoes or crampons are a wise idea in the winter, depending on the conditions (bring your own) and kids 4 and under must be carried.
Upcoming goat hikes:
9-11 a.m. Friday December 20
2-4 p.m. Sunday December 22
2-4 p.m. Monday, December 23
2-4 p.m.Tuesday. December 24
2-4 p.m. Saturday, December 28
2-4 p.m. Tuesday, December 31
2-4 p.m. Wednesday, January 1
These hikes tend to full up, so be sure to book your spot! More info on dates and signing up here: tenapplefarm.com
Goat Hikes
Ten Apple Farm, 241 Yarmouth Road, Gray
To stay up to date on the easy-going and family-friendly Goat Hikes, check out Ten Apple Farm’s website and Facebook page.
