Guided Goat Hikes in the Catskills at Hemlock Neversink

Experience the Joy of Hiking with Goats in New York's Catskill Mountains

There's something magical about wandering through wildflower meadows alongside gentle, curious goats. At Hemlock Neversink, our guided goat hikes offer a uniquely restorative way to connect with nature, reduce stress, and rediscover your sense of wonder—all while exploring our 230-acre sanctuary in the heart of the Catskills.

Watercolor illustration of a goat and a cow standing on a rock with grass, one holding a green plant in its mouth.

What Makes Our Goat Hikes Special

Our hike with goats experience isn't just a walk—it's a form of animal-assisted relaxation that naturally lowers stress levels and brings out your inner child. Our rescued goats are gentle companions who invite you to slow down, be present, and experience the therapeutic benefits of connecting with animals in their natural environment.

Meagan from Frederick Farm Goat Sanctuary is our resident goat whisperer and guru. Frederick Farm has been home to rescue goats since 2013 and starting in 2023 with the opening of Hemlock Neversini, Hemlock Neversink became a second home for her her of over 40 goats. Through Meagan, we have learned to recognize each goat as a distinct personality, worthy of our empathy, respect and care and are committed to providing a loving home and sanctuary to goats in need of rescue and sharing these beautiful and fun-loving creatures with our guests to encourage the happiness and well-being of both our goats and our guests.

What to Expect on Your Goat Hike:

  • Guided walks through scenic meadows and woodland trails

  • Meet our resident rescue goats and learn their individual personalities

  • Therapeutic animal interaction known to reduce stress and anxiety

  • Photo opportunities in stunning Catskill mountain settings

  • Seasonal variations—from spring wildflower walks to autumn apple picking adventures

  • Goat hugs, if you are open to it. Channel your inner child, bend down and offer yourself for a goat hug - you will not be disappointed. Our goats are very affectionate and love human interaction.

A woman in a green vest and beige pants kneeling and holding two baby goats, one black and brown and the other tan, on a farmyard with a wooden fence and other goats in the background.
Two baby goats lying on grass in front of a rustic barn 
Planning Your Goat Hikes Experience

  • Location: Neversink, New York in the Catskills (just 2 hours from NYC)

  • Duration: 60 minutes of gentle hiking

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate—suitable for most fitness levels

  • Included: All goat hikes are complimentary for Hemlock Neversink guests

  • When: Almost daily scheduled hikes (check with our guest services team for times!).

A wooden goat playground structure with multiple levels, ramps, and wire fencing, located in a grassy field. Several goats are playing on and around the structure, and there is a rustic barn and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky. 
Experience the Magic of Hiking with Goats at Hemlock Neversink in the Catskills

Step into our world through this beautiful Barbour Way of Life video featuring our sanctuary in the Catskill Mountains.

Watch as Meagan and our herd of 40 spirited goats share what makes hiking with goats at Hemlock Neversink such a special experience. This feature reached nearly a million viewers worldwide, showcasing how our journey began 12 years ago with a single wandering goat and has grown into New York's premier destination for goat hiking adventures.

Our approach to goat hiking goes beyond simple outdoor recreation. With Meagan's background as an art therapist and 25 years in the therapy world, we've created experiences that offer genuine escape from city life stress.

The video captures the heart of what we do – providing therapeutic adventures where visitors can connect with our charismatic goats while exploring the stunning Catskill landscape, making us a must-visit destination for anyone seeking unique hiking experiences in New York.

More Than Just a Hike with Goats

Your goat hiking experience is part of Hemlock Neversink's holistic approach to wellness. Unlike rigid wellness programs, we meet you where you are. Whether you're seeking adventure, restoration, or simply want to try something delightfully different, our goat hikes complement your stay perfectly.

Pair Your Goat Hike With:

  • Morning yoga in our Movement studio

  • Afternoon spa treatments using locally-sourced ingredients

  • Farm-to-table dining at Bittersweet Restaurant

  • Guided nature walks and forest bathing

  • Creative workshops in our art studios

Group of people practicing yoga outdoors on a wooden deck surrounded by nature.
Wooden house with large windows and a sign that reads "We're Glad You're Here." Surrounding plants and trees are visible.
Two chefs working in a commercial kitchen behind a counter. One seen from the back wearing a white T-shirt with a geometric design and a black apron, the other facing sideways with a black headband, white T-shirt, and black apron. Various kitchen too
Interior of a modern living room with yellow sofas, black metal shelves, potted plants, large windows, and wooden wall panels.
Group of people walking with goats on a trail in a fall forest with colorful leaves and trees.
A massage therapy room with a massage table covered by a dark blanket, with a rolled towel and some small items on top. The room has a large window with sunlight coming through, a potted plant on the windowsill, and floating shelves with skincare pro

Our vision of wellness isn't about achieving perfection. It's about achieving happiness, having fun, and feeling restored.

Book Your Goat Hike Experience

Ready to hike with goats in one of New York's most beautiful settings? Our goat hikes are included with every stay at Hemlock Neversink, along with all our daily wellness activities, spa facility access, and three farm-fresh meals.

Book an activity

Frequently Asked Questions About Hemlock Neversink’s Goat Hikes

  • Our guided goat hikes are gentle walks through our 230-acre property where you'll be accompanied by our rescued goats as your hiking companions. It's a form of animal-assisted relaxation that combines light exercise with the therapeutic benefits of spending time with gentle animals in nature. Think of it as a mindful walk where the goats set the pace and invite you to slow down and be present.

  • Yes! All goat hikes are complimentary for Hemlock Neversink guests, along with all our daily wellness activities. There are no additional fees—just show up ready to enjoy time with our four-legged friends.

  • We offer guided goat hikes five days a week and the goat playground is open and accessible daily, year-round. The exact schedule varies by season, but there's typically at least one hike offered each day. Check with our guest services team for the current week's schedule.

  • While goat hikes are included with your stay, we recommend checking in with our front desk or Experience Guide to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons when these popular activities can fill up.

  • Our goat hikes typically last 60 minutes, including time to meet the goats, a gentle walk through meadows or woodland trails, and opportunities for photos and interaction.

  • Our goat hikes are designed to be accessible to most fitness levels. The terrain is generally easy to moderate, with well-maintained paths through meadows and gentle woodland trails. The goats naturally set a relaxed, unhurried pace.

  • Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on grass and dirt paths. Dress in layers appropriate for the weather, and don't worry about getting a little muddy—it's all part of the authentic farm experience! We recommend clothes you don't mind getting a bit dirty.

  • Our goats are sensitive to other animals, so we're unable to accommodate pets during goat hikes or anywhere on the property. This policy helps ensure the comfort and safety of both our rescue goats and your pets.

  • While our goats aren't "trained" in the traditional sense, they're well-socialized and comfortable around people. They're naturally curious and gentle animals who seem to understand their role as therapeutic companions. They'll often approach guests for attention and seem to sense when someone needs a moment of calm connection.

  • Yes, goat hikes are available for $100 to those who do not plan to stay Hemlock Neversink. You can book a goat hike for yourself, friends and your family at this link.