Looking for something different to do as most of us stay closer to home this summer? How about taking the family on a hike?

"It is really fantastic exercise," says Chrystie Stafford, marketing director at Indian Ladder Farms in Voorheesville.

Stafford helps people navigate the many hiking trails behind the apple orchard, brewery, and country store.

"There's a nice breeze up here and you can feel alone without really being alone. When you are up here, you don't need to have on a mask. You can find a secluded spot to have some peace and quiet," says Stafford. 

The trails aren't too challenging for families and they also lead to more fun things to do at the farm.

"It's great to walk through and see all of the animals here. There is a such a big variety," says Stafford.

Visitors can pet goats and feed them corn, see exotic chickens, friendly cows, and even meet "Simon," the resident donkey. 

After the trail travels past the many farm animals, it leads to the berry patch. Stafford says the raspberry and blueberry crop this year is abundant and people have been coming out to pick quite often. The large crop this summer has been good for business.

From the berry patch, the trail will lead visitors to the country store where there's fresh produce, a restaurant, gifts, and the bakery.

"The biggest seller here is our cider donut," says Stafford.

Indian Ladder Farm has been ramping up production of the fall favorite early because of the pandemic. The owners wanted to give people a delicious distraction during this challenging time. And many visitors have been lining up.

"I will always wait in line for one of these donuts! I had them at my wedding, and they are the most delicious things," said one excited hiker. 

As visitors exit the country store, the trail leads them to the Helderberg Escarpment. Stafford says "it's really the most beautiful view, and it's fantastic just to be here. It's just so inspiring."  

Indian Ladder Farms is open seven days a week through the fall. Hiking is free. If families are interested in picking fruit, they are encouraged to call ahead or visit the farm's website.