Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour

A Gentle, Authentic Encounter with Farm Animals in the Catskills

If you’re looking to spend a relaxed morning in the countryside, the Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour at Clover Brooke Farm might just be the perfect choice. Located in the scenic Hudson Valley, this 1.5-hour experience costs $65 per person and is designed to give you a close-up encounter with llamas, alpacas, and farmyard friends like chickens, rabbits, and barn cats. Guided by friendly staff, you’ll explore a 25-acre farm featuring an 1850 homestead, charming pastures, and a stocked pond, all wrapped in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to interact directly with the animals, especially guiding your llama or alpaca through the lush fields—this is a hands-on activity that makes the experience memorable. Plus, the farm’s historical setting adds a touch of timeless rural charm, making it more than just a petting zoo. The inclusion of water and farm entry for the day keeps the experience simple and straightforward, perfect for a quick nature escape.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves walking on uneven terrain, which might not suit everyone, especially those with limited mobility or difficulty walking a mile. The tour is also limited to a small group of no more than 8 travelers, making it intimate but also requiring reservations about a month in advance, on average.

This experience is ideal for animal lovers, families with children over 8, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor activity that combines nature, history, and animal encounters in one charming package.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience in the historic Hudson Valley
• Interactive animal trekking with llamas and alpacas
• Includes farm entry and bottled water for convenience
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness
• Small group size enhances personal attention
• Ideal for families and animal enthusiasts

An In-Depth Look at the Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour

Location and Accessibility

Set in the peaceful surroundings of Hyde Park, NY, Clover Brooke Farm offers a rare chance to explore a working farm in the Hudson Valley. The address, 175 Ruskey Lane, is easy to reach if you’re already exploring the Catskills or nearby areas. The tour runs Tuesday mornings from 10:00 to 11:30, making it a perfect morning activity before lunch or other sightseeing plans.

What the Tour Includes

You start your visit with a brief farm tour, where you’ll meet a variety of animals: chickens, rabbits, ducks, and barn cats. These animals are the farm’s everyday residents, and the guide’s stories about their history and personalities add depth beyond simple petting. The highlight, of course, is the guided trek with llamas and alpacas.

Before setting off, you’ll receive Introduction to Llama/Alpaca 101, which covers safety rules and interesting facts about these fluffy creatures. For example, why are llamas and alpacas considered the “unicorns of the animal world”? The guide likely explains their gentle nature, and the soft, plush fiber that makes them so popular.

The Trek Itself

The main event is the guided walk across the farm’s pastures and paddocks. You’ll be encouraged to take selfies with your llama or alpaca along the way, which makes for fun photographs and lasting memories. The route includes a stop by a bass pond, adding a serene backdrop to your gentle stroll.

Guiding your animal requires a bit of patience and some gentle guiding skills—nothing strenuous, but you’ll want to be comfortable walking on uneven terrain. The farm’s pastoral setting offers lovely views and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

Highlights and Special Features

• Interaction with farm animals: We loved the way guides teach you how to safely pet and handle the animals, which adds a layer of confidence and care.
• Historical ambiance: The 1850 homestead provides context and a nostalgic feel to the experience, making the farm more than just a petting zoo.
• Photo opportunities: The chance to selfie with the llamas and alpacas in the scenic farm settings is a highlight, especially for social media fans.

Authentic, Personal Touch

Reviewers have consistently praised the knowledgeable and caring guides, with Willy_A noting that Andrea “genuinely cares about her animals” and made the experience “wonderful and very knowledgeable.” This genuine care enhances the experience and makes the farm feel like visiting friends rather than a commercial operation.

Considerations for Visitors

Because of the small group size and the moderate walking required, this tour is best for those who are comfortable outdoors and on uneven ground. It’s not suitable for children under 8 or visitors with mobility issues. Also, since weather can affect outdoor activities, checking the forecast is a good idea—if the weather turns bad, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Value of the Experience

At $65, this tour offers a lot of value for animal lovers and those wanting a quiet, authentic rural day. The personal interaction and small group setting make it feel special, and the inclusion of farm entry and bottled water keeps things simple. Compared to larger, more commercial farms, Clover Brooke Farm emphasizes personalized attention and genuine farm life, which we find refreshing and well worth the price.

Why It Stands Out

Unlike cookie-cutter farm visits, this experience emphasizes history, nature, and personal connection. The farm’s setting, combined with the chance to guide your own llama or alpaca, creates a memorable moment that’s especially suited for nature enthusiasts, families, or anyone craving a gentle outdoor experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re seeking a low-key, authentic farm visit with plenty of opportunities to interact with animals and learn about farm life. It’s especially ideal for families with kids over 8, animal lovers, or those interested in fiber animals and farm history. If you want a break from more crowded attractions, this farm offers a peaceful, personalized experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be at least 8 years old to participate, as that ensures they can follow safety instructions and walk comfortably on uneven terrain.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including the farm tour, animal interaction, and guided trek.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking outdoors—closed-toe shoes are recommended because you’ll be on uneven ground. Layers are smart, especially if it’s cooler in the morning.

Are there restrooms available?
Yes, public restrooms are accessible near the farm.

Can I bring my pet?
No, pets are not allowed during the tour, to protect the animals and ensure safety.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, promoting a more personal, relaxed experience.

To sum it up, the Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour at Clover Brooke Farm offers a genuine, engaging farm experience that combines history, nature, and animal interaction. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a peaceful escape, a chance to connect with charming animals, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Catskills. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of rural life that’s both educational and delightfully authentic.