Positively Upstate: Llamas making the perfect hiking buddy
BALLSON SPA, NY (WRGB) If you’re searching for a new hiking buddy – look no further than a llama. Yes, a llama.
Dakota Ridge Farm in Ballston Spa offers not only llama treks, but the opportunity to see, pet and even hug (if you want) these unique animals. Even babies, which are plentiful this time of year. Katrina Capasso’s family has owned the farm for generations. It’s also a breeding facility for llamas. A huge animal-lover, she got her first llama as a wedding gift almost 30 years ago. His name was, Dakota.
“I always say they’re just like potato chips. You can’t just have one. And now there are fifty-five llamas here all together.” She says.
Capasso says she fell in love with llamas as a child during a visit to the Catskill Game Farm.
“I love the way their eyes look at you.” She says. “I just think they’re beautiful and regal.”
Llama treks are the chance to have these gentle, inquisitive animals make the average walk through the woods wonderful and unforgettable. The hike itself 1.5 miles at a comfortable pace. You can’t ride the llamas (they hold 75-100 lbs.), but they will carry any lunches, snacks or drinks while you enjoy the scenery. There’s a place to picnic along the way.
“We hear a lot of people say it’s like a magical experience to be with the llamas and to walk them.” Capasso says. “A lot of people have never seen them or been around them at all. They love them.”
Treks are for people and children of all ages. Depending on group size, there’s usually between 10-15 llamas on a single trek. Dakota Ridge books treks weekdays through appointment only from 11am-5pm. It’s $25 for adults and $15 for kids under the age of 15.
Visitors will be happy to know that despite the rumors – llamas will not spit at you! Do they spit? Yes, but only in self-defense if they’re being harmed. Llamas will also spit at each other to defend their territory.
If you’re interested in doing a llama trek or visiting the farm, check Dakota Ridge out on Facebook or their website: https://www.dakotaridgefarm.com/
