Goats On The Go Boulder

If you have strolled, jogged, or biked along the Rio Grande Trail in Carbondale recently, you may have noticed some unusual trail companions — herds of hardworking goats! While they are along the trail to graze, their presence adds a special charm to the trail and creates plenty of memorable encounters.

But what is a typical day really like for the goats (and their human handlers)? Grab a coffee and join us for a behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life on the trail.

Morning: Breakfast on the Trail

As the day begins, the goats are guided to a fresh patch of vegetation, while the onsite crews check water levels, fence integrity, and the health of the herd. With tails wagging, the waste no time getting to work, feasting on thistles, grasses, and leafy brush.

Midday: Curious Visitors and Happy Surprises

By midmorning, the trail is buzzing with activity as multiple types of trail users emerge:

The Early Morning Runners: They slow to a walk, pulling out their phones with big grins. “I heard you guys were here!” is the most common shout. We always pause to answer questions. Yes, they are working. Yes, they are effective. And yes, that little one with the dirty face is named Pig Pen.

The Cyclists: A bike will often screech to a halt, as the sight of a few hundred goats can be startling! We get thumbs-ups and cheers. One cyclist told us, “This is the best traffic jam I’ve ever been in.”

The Families with Kids: This is our favorite. The wonder on a child’s face when they see a goat kid is pure magic. We become impromptu educators, explaining how the goats are a sustainable alternative to herbicides and heavy machinery. We always remind everyone to look, not touch—the electric fence gives a good zap, and the goats need to focus on their job.

The Dogs: This is the funniest part of the day. A dog will be trotting along, catch sight and scent of the herd, and just… short-circuit. The classic head tilt is universal. Most are curious and well-behaved, but we always appreciate owners who give us a wide berth.

These spontaneous encounters often turn into conversations about land stewardship, farming, and the unique role goats play in caring for our landscapes.

Afternoon: Teamwork in Action

Midday is the ideal time for our handlers to focus their efforts on infrastructure, as the goats typically take an afternoon siesta between 1:00-2:00. Portable fencing is shifted and tested, water buckets are again refilled, and the herd is gently rotated through the dense vegetation. There is a rhythm to the work, a balance between efficiency and patience, all while letting the goats lead with their natural instincts.

Evening: A Peaceful Wind-Down

As the sun dips lower, the goats return to their pen. With bellies full and the trail a little more open, they settle in for a quiet night. Trail users often stop one last time, waving goodbye or pausing just to watch the herd chew cud in the golden light.