Unique Outdoor Farm Adventures at Wilderness Valley Farm, Gaylord - Traverse City

Unique Outdoor Farm Adventures at Wilderness Valley Farm, Gaylord

Traverse Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels including families and casual walkers

Overview

Wilderness Valley Farm in Gaylord, Michigan offers a unique blend of farm-based outdoor adventures including guided donkey hikes and farm picnics. Discover a hands-on way to connect with nature off the beaten path.

Details

Located in Gaylord, Michigan, Wilderness Valley Farm offers a fresh take on outdoor recreation that blends rural charm with hands-on nature experiences. Set in the northern Lower Peninsula, an area known for its mixed hardwood forests and rolling farmland, this family-friendly farm provides a variety of rustic activities that engage visitors in ways few adventure businesses in the region do.

Wilderness Valley Farm’s signature trips invite visitors to step away from conventional hiking or kayaking and into a slower, grounded kind of adventure. The Guided Donkey Picnic & Hike is a standout experience where participants trek along gentle trails alongside donkeys, carrying picnic supplies and forging a unique bond with these gentle animals. This is more than a walk—it’s an intimate encounter with nature’s rhythm, perfect for those looking for low-impact activity with a memorable twist.

Farm House Parties and Farm Picnic Parties offer an immersive day outdoors, where groups gather in the farm’s open meadow spaces for fresh-air meals framed by orchard views and garden plots. These events embrace the best of Michigan’s outdoors without feeling remote, making it easy to enjoy fresh farm-to-table treats and social time infused with natural beauty and farmstead sounds.

The Public Farm Tour Experience opens the farm’s gates to visitors eager to learn about sustainable farming practices, seasonal crops, and local wildlife. Gaylord’s surrounding environment, rich in northern hardwood forests and home to native Michigan species, frames every visit with a strong sense of place.

Wilderness Valley Farm represents a rare mix of agriculture and outdoor recreation with a strong community focus. For visitors to Northern Michigan who want to experience nature through a farming lens while enjoying scenic landscapes and engaging activities, it's an inviting destination that adds a distinct flavor to the region’s outdoor offerings.

Adventure Tips

Stay hydrated during farm hikes

Bring water when joining the donkey hike to stay comfortable during the 2-3 hour walk on dirt and field trails.

Dress for changing weather

Layer your clothing as Michigan weather can shift quickly, especially in shoulder seasons.

Wear sturdy shoes

Closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are recommended for walking on uneven farm paths and pasture ground.

Arrive early for farm tours

Public farm tours run on set schedules—arrive early to get the full experience without missing any stops.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet meadow spots ideal for afternoon reflection or sketching
  • Secluded fruit orchards visible during tour seasons

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Eastern box turtle

History

Gaylord, Michigan has a rich agricultural history as part of the northern Midwest farming belt, with Wilderness Valley Farm continuing that tradition by combining farming with outdoor recreation.

Conservation

Wilderness Valley Farm emphasizes sustainable farming and low-impact visitor activities to protect the soil health and local ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
early morning
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Farm house porch looking over orchards
  • Trail sections with donkeys during picnic hikes
  • Open fields with wildflowers in spring and summer

What to Photograph

Donkeys on trail
Farmstead buildings
Seasonal flora and farm produce

Recommended Gear

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during your time on the trails and farm grounds.

Weather-appropriate layers

Essential

Changeable spring weather calls for easy layering to stay comfortable.

spring specific

Insect repellent

Essential

Keep bugs at bay during warmer months for a more pleasant experience.

summer|fall specific

Closed-toe hiking shoes

Essential

Provide traction and protect feet on dirt trails and grassy pastures.