Have you ever heard of agritourism? What exactly does it mean? Simply stated, it’s where the crossroads of agriculture and tourism meet to provide you with an amazing educational experience, whether it be a tour of a farm or ranch, a farm-to-fork eatery, or a generations-old farm store. Farmers, ranchers and wineries turn their land into a destination and open their doors to the public in order to teach more about what they do and their way of life. Additionally, agritourism provides educational opportunities to the public with hope to preserve agricultural lands.
Every year the team here at Destination Caldwell seeks to find small businesses to add to our AgVenture Trail itinerary. We choose destinations that take great care in how they host you and your friends or family for a fun afternoon of exploration. Our motivation with this tour is to get you to discover the hidden gems of the agricultural community nestled throughout Canyon and Owyhee counties. The trail begins and ends in Historic Downtown Caldwell and takes you to the heart of the Snake River Valley. On this tour, you will meet the farmers and ranchers who live this life every day. They love to share their passion and stories with visitors. Some of these destinations are representing generations of history-making and hard work. There are two ways to enjoy this itinerary: Let someone else drive and tour with Snake River Wine Tours or grab a brochure and hit the road on your own. There’s no wrong way to explore, just get out there!
We’d like to take this opportunity to highlight some of the businesses on the trail in the upcoming months, so stay tuned!
VISIT FUN AND INTERACTIVE FARM ANIMALS ON THE TRAIL
Fireball Alpacas – Their farm is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of Caldwell, Idaho where orchards and vineyards roll along the mighty Snake River. The area, known as Sunnyslope to the locals, is the vineyard growing, wine-making mecca of Idaho and they feel extremely blessed to live in such an incredible place. Their farm is growing, not only from the award-winning alpaca they are producing, but also because they are constantly looking for the best genetics to bring to our farm. Throughout their alpaca journey, they have met the most amazing people that have taken them under their wing and showed them the ropes of the business. They promise to show you that same attentiveness whether you are purchasing alpaca yarn, a fiber animal, a breeding female, one of our their outstanding herdsires, or if you are just visiting to see what the heck an alpaca looks and feels like up close!
The Goat Yard – Bre, Jason and their crew love to share their passion and love for farm living with you. They desire to educate others about Idaho life and agriculture living and provide an experience like no other. Their full calendar of goat yoga, paint parties and late-night markets keep them busy and you wanting more! They have a wide variety of beloved farm animals, ready to be scratched and given treats (cookies preferred). Selfies recommended!
Namaste in the Country – This farm is a special destination to practice yoga in the gorgeous countryside. Namaste in the Country is designed to support the health and wellbeing of the Treasure Valley’s growing community by providing yoga classes for everyone, hosting Goat Yoga, local events, educational classes, and workshops. Share the joy with you that comes from the beauty of the country, the laughter from the goats – all for the goodness of your body, mind and spirit. Namaste challenge: Try NOT to belly laugh while a goat hops on your back during a yoga session! Participants are welcome to join in on every yoga movement or sit on their mat with a snuggling goat on their lap. The choice is yours.
