Guided Goat Hikes

Adventure looks different for everyone, and sometimes the best adventures come with four legs!I had the opportunity to sit down with Nerissa Cannon (@topnotchworkinggoats), an outdoor enthusiast who uses her goats to help navigate disability and access the backcountry.Her story is a reminder that accessibility and adventure can go hand in hand, and that sometimes the right companions can open doors (or trails!) that might otherwise feel out of reach.We talked goats, outdoor recreation, accessibility, and what it means to find your own way into the wilderness.This is exactly why we love the pack goat community. It's about so much more than goats carrying gear. It's about connection, independence, opportunity, and getting out there!Give Nerissa's story a listen!

In this episode, Karen Kopf shares her perspective on LGDs and the incredible value they can bring to a working farm or ranch. With firsthand experience rescuing and rehabilitating dogs, Karen understands that every dog has its own story, strengths, and potential.We dive into the role LGDs play in protecting livestock, their importance as working partners, and the journey of helping dogs find the right purpose and environment to thrive.Tune in for Karen’s insights on LGDs, rescue, rehabilitation, and the lasting impact these remarkable dogs can have.

In this episode of Guided Goat Hikes, Tara sits down with Robin Gamble, owner of Rugged Range Goat Ranch, to talk about building a life and a business around pack goats. Robin shares how she started her ranch in 1992, what it was like renting goats to hunters and backpackers, and how the pack goat industry has evolved over the years.

In this episode, we sit down with Stella of Pack Goats Australia to talk about her most recent backcountry adventure, an unforgettable 270-kilometer trek through Australia’s National Trail with a team of nine pack goats. This was not her first 100+km trip. Listen in for details!Stella and her goats traveled a remote section of the Australia National Trail throughout the month. We dive into what it takes to train goats for multi-week expeditions, how they carried essential gear, and what daily life looked like moving through rugged terrain with a goat string.Stella also shares the challenges, quiet moments, and unexpected joys of traveling with goats. Whether you’re into pack goats, long-distance hiking, or unconventional adventure, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and plenty of goat talk.

Clay and Charlotte Zimmerman - owners of High Uinta Pack Goats - share how they launched their first string, the real benefits of pack goats on the trail, and what it takes to run a professional pack goat business. As founding members of NAPgA, they've helped set standards and grow the community.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Gifford, the President of the North American Pack Goat Association, to explore groundbreaking research on Urinary Calculi (UC) in wethers, or castrated male goats. Chris discusses the collaboration with the University of California - Davis and the significance of this study for goat owners and others in the community. Join us as we dive into the challenges of UC in goats, the implications of this research, and how it aims to enhance the health and well-being of pack goats across North America. Don't miss this insightful conversation that sheds light on an important topic in the world of goat husbandry!

We are honored to feature John Mionczynski, the grandfather of pack goats. Join us as John shares invaluable insights from decades of working with these remarkable animals in the great outdoors. Throughout the episode, John reflects on the joys and challenges of training and utilizing pack goats, offering practical tips for listeners who may be interested in incorporating goats into their own outdoor adventures. John also candidly discusses why he no longer owns pack goats. He shares his personal insights about the changes in his lifestyle and the medical difficulties he has faced.

Bantam Saddle Tack, located in Idaho, is owned by Matt Lyon. In this podcast, we will delve into Matt's journey into the world of pack goats. He will share his insights on the differences between soft saddles, wooden saddles, and aluminum saddles. Additionally, Matt opens up about a challenging life lesson learned while packing with goats in the backcountry.

Join us for an insightful episode featuring Matt Keuffler from Brush Mountain Pack Goats. Matt is a dedicated member of the North American Pack Goat Association (NAPgA), and a former Board Member. In this episode, Matt shares his expertise and passion for pack goats highlighting their unique roles in 4H programs and benefits they bring to young packers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Discover how pack goats can be a valuable asset in 4H projects, learn about their care and training, and hear unique stories from the field. Whether you're a seasoned goat lover or new to the world of pack animals, this discussion promises to be both information and engaging. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in the pack goat community.

In this episode we sit down with Matt Severeid, the man behind the popular Instagram account, Cascade Packgoats, showcasing the unique world of packing with goats. Join us as Matt shares his inspiring journey of how he started Cascade Pack Goats and the incredible experiences he's had along the way. From heartwarming stories to the challenges he's faced, Matt offers a unique perspective on this unconventional yet rewarding adventure. Don't miss out on these captivating tales that blend passion, perseverance, and a love for our four-legged friends!