A normal hike is nice. A goat hike comes with frequent snack breaks, strong opinions about trail plants, and at least one goat who is certain the group should be moving at a different speed.
That is part of the appeal.
Goats have been trail partners for a long time
Goats have lived alongside people for about 10,000 years. They have done all kinds of jobs, including carrying gear. During the Klondike Gold Rush, goats were among the animals used to haul supplies over the steep Coast Mountain trails.
Modern pack goats still carry camping gear in some places. The Molly's Menagerie goats are off the clock when they hike with us. They are there for the walk, the browsing, and the people.
Why our goats go hiking
The goats on our hikes come from Molly's Menagerie at Gray Muzzle Society. For them, a hike is enrichment. It gets them out for a walk, gives them new plants to sample, and introduces them to new people.
Goats are browsers, so they tend to treat the trail like a long tasting menu. They also make it difficult for the humans to rush. We stop, look around, answer questions, and let the goats investigate whatever has caught their attention.
Every goat hike gives back
The goats get paid in leaves. The actual money goes a little farther.
Every goat hike supports:
- $10 per goat for Molly's Menagerie at Gray Muzzle Society
- $5 per hike for the Jeffco Open Space Foundation
- $5 per hike for the American Indian College Fund
That is a small, local version of Weaving Adventure With Purpose. Also, there are goats.