The idyllic rural lifestyle in Siskiyou is something special that not all destinations can offer. It comes from generations of families with agricultural history and deep-rooted traditions. We encourage you to really soak in the sunshine, breathe the fresh air, and embrace the countryside when you are here. What better way to immerse yourself in the region than with a visit to a real working farm? Here are some experiences where you can visit a farm on your next trip to Siskiyou and enjoy the serene countryside, participate in farm activities, and purchase fresh produce and local goods. A farm visit is a perfect destination for a relaxing day out, connecting with nature, and savoring the flavors of California’s True North.
Alpaca on the Rocks, who raise alpacas, mini horses, donkeys, mule, piggies, and Icelandic sheep and offer ranch tours on weekends. Nestled near Weed, this working ranch offers a delightful mix of experiences. Enjoy guided tours, needle felting art classes, and educational experiences, all set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Shasta. Visitors can meet friendly alpacas, mini horses, donkeys, mules, piggies, and Icelandic sheep, making it a perfect family getaway. The ranch also features a store with handcrafted alpaca items, including hats, scarves, and socks made from hypoallergenic alpaca fiber.
Many of the producers in Siskiyou that don’t offer farm visits can still be experienced at our local Farmer’s Markets. From Spring to fall, almost every community hosts a local market where producers of local food and goods gather to sell and connect with community. We highly suggest making time for a farmer’s market when you are in Siskiyou and fill your basket with some fresh local food.
Take a walk through the rows of California’s largest peony farm in Callahan at California Peony Company in late May – early June. This operation is a large-scale peony farm that specializes in growing both popular and specialty peony varieties for cut flower production. While the bloom season for visiting is quite short, if you time it right, the views from the peony rows under Mount Bolivar will stay with you for a lifetime. We suggest making a stop at the Callhan Emporium when out that way, this roadside bar and general store is a legendary watering hole that serves up a frosty cold pint and deli-style lunch which is perfect for a re-fuel after a day on the farm.
U-Pick Dahlia events happen at Pastures of Grace in Gazelle in the late August bloom. This working ranch also produces and sells pastured pork, which is non-gmo, no antibiotics raised with the highest standards. They also offer sourdough starter for sale in addition to flowers. Supporting this ranch feels good because your donation and purchases are contributing to their mission that is dedicated to help struggling young women and mothers by offering life skills and guidance on their path to a brighter future. Additionally, the property serves as a wedding and event venue with a stunning backdrop of Mount Shasta in full view.
Visiting Hunter Orchards in Grenada, is a delightful experience for all ages, offering a chance to explore a family-owned, certified organic farm nestled in the scenic Shasta Valley. Open seasonally, the orchard features a variety of organic fruits, including peaches, nectarines, and apricots, as well as a popular pumpkin patch in October. This excellent local orchard also has apples, colorful gourds and other delicious fall produce. Open by appointment only from July 1st through September 30th. During October they extend their hours.
Copper Acres, near Weed is a small flower farm and event florist in the Edgewood community. Hosting seasonal experiences & workshops as well as crafting floral designs for events and special occasions. Check Facebook to see what events are happening this season.
Another way to embrace the farm-to-fork, local food culture in Siskiyou is by attending a food event. Some annual events that celebrate the bounty of local food that comes from the region are the McCloud Mushroom Festival, which is annually held in McCloud on Memorial Day weekend and attracts thousands to celebrate the bounty of the wild mushroom harvest. There are numerous demonstrations, workshops, chefs’ dinners, and other events surrounding the culinary uses for these foraged mushrooms. The Mount Shasta Blackberry Music Festival is another favorite event happening on Labor Day each year. The heart of the Blackberry Festival is truly baked into its famous blackberry pies. Each year, over 400 pies are baked with locally sourced blackberries the day before the festival. These delicious pies are sold by the slice at the event, often paired with vanilla ice cream. Siskiyou Beef n’ Brew is a newer event that is making a big impact. This event’s focus is right in its name, with the Siskiyou County Cattlewomen preparing mouthwatering local beef appetizers paired with refreshing craft beer tastings from local breweries. The event brings together foodies, beer enthusiasts together for a celebration of agriculture and community spirit. The event culminates with a mouthwatering beef dinner, served al fresco to the sounds of some regional country bands on the stage.