Summer‘s “official” first day is only a matter of weeks away, and if you haven’t started planning a getaway for the season — it’s about that time!
Trading the soon-to-be sweaty subway stations for the quiet crunch of hiking boots is something you’ll want—trust us—and we’ve found the place to do it.
17 July 2026 00:00 + more dates
Deep in the pristine northern Adirondacks sits a sprawling 42.5-acre regenerative farm ready to hand you a basket of fresh eggs and introduce you to some incredibly charismatic goats.
Located in the picturesque Owls Head region, The Cook Farm is giving New Yorkers an immersive nature retreat that actually lives up to the hype.
Here’s the story behind one of the ADK’s most unique pilgrimages happening in summer 2026.
Step inside the Cook Farm experience
First-generation farmers Brandon and Laura Cook have opened their gorgeous property for an exclusive 1.5-hour farm tour that lets you get your hands dirty in the best way possible.
Bookable through the whole summer now, this is not your average petting zoo.
Instead, you get to step directly into the daily rhythms of sustainable agriculture.
You will be collecting fresh eggs from free-range hens, feeding veggies to pasture-raised pigs, and harvesting seasonal produce straight from the market garden.
The absolute highlight of the day is taking a scenic stroll with the farm’s official ambassadors, a pair of wildly charming goats named Chuck and Larry.
Between hanging out with the animals and learning about compost temperatures, you will see exactly what it takes to run an earth-friendly operation.
It’s like a “be-a-farmer-for-a-day” kinda vibe, it’s awesome.
You can dive deeper into their sustainable mission on The Cook Farm’s official website, where they also feature their famous artisanal goat milk soaps and local goods.
Exploring the Owls Head region & beyond
The farm sits right beneath Owls Head Mountain, putting you directly in the center of one of the most serene and unspoiled areas of the Adirondacks.
The Owls Head and Duane region is a massive hidden gem filled with crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and breathtaking hiking trails that skip the heavy crowds usually found in the High Peaks.
After spending time with Chuck and Larry, you can take a quick trip over to High Falls.
Just a short drive and a moderate hike down a wooded trail, you will find a stunning 30-foot step cascade waterfall rushing along the Salmon River. It’s the perfect spot for snapping some gorgeous nature photos after a hard day’s work.
For even more upstate adventures, the nearby village of Malone offers charming local shopping, while the surrounding Debar Mountain Wild Forest provides endless acreage for exploring.
You could easily spend an entire weekend breathing in the crisp mountain air, hiking up to the historic Owls Head Fire Tower where you can still spot the curious remnants of an old abandoned observer’s cabin, and relaxing by the quiet waterfronts of Loon Lake.
Plan your Adirondack adventure
Whether you’re planning a solo nature retreat or a weekend road trip with friends, this hands-on agricultural experience is the perfect excuse to disconnect from your screens and reconnect with the outdoors.
Just remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can handle a bit of dirt.
Tickets are available right now for just $20 per person, and the farm even hooks you up with boot covers for the tour.
Simply meet up near the greenhouse, follow the dirt road, and get ready for a wildly refreshing upstate getaway!
1.5 Hour Immersive Farm Experience in Adirondacks
17 July 2026 00:00 + more dates
