Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1458609
Explore nearby counties and the riders don't have to follow each other single file. "You're riding on a private beach on a beautiful animal, and the scenery is just amazing," she says. Horses often wade in the water, and "We don't get wet, but we let them put their hooves in the water," she adds. Sometimes kids are excited but get nervous when they discover how big the horses are. "Before I get everybody on the horses, I do a little demonstration," says Ross, and she also talks about horse behavior. Both she and the horses are experienced, and she guides the ride, so as long as people listen and pay attention, they have nothing to fear. For young children, she holds a rope and controls the horse so they don't have to do it themselves. "Often I've had three generations on the ride. It's really fun for the whole family," she says. Make reservations at rossranch.biz. Connolly Ranch Children love farm animals, and at Connolly Ranch in Napa, they have a chance to see them up close. The ranch's residents include chickens, goats, pigs, sheep, donkeys and miniature horses. Families can also participate in sustainable farm-based activities. "Kids and families get to understand the beauty and operations of a farm," says co-executive director Heidi Solinger, explaining that they also visit the organic edible garden and wander through open spaces dotted with bay laurel and oak trees. "It's a freeing space that kids like to explore. It's truly about being in nature and being on a farm. It's an authentic experience." Solinger recommends the farm open house for families. It takes place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays April through October. The ranch's educators are well- versed in meeting the needs of different age levels, from toddlers to preteens and even adults. "Come early, before kids need to take a nap," she advises. Pack some snacks. In addition, wear comfortable shoes, and dress in layers, because the ranch is cool first thing in the morning but gets warmer as the sun gets higher. Connolly Ranch also offers a day-long program on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids who'd like to spend more time on the farm while their parents head off for a different kind of Napa Valley experience. See all Connolly Ranch's programs and register at connollyranch.org. Sonoma Zipline Adventures The exhilarating feeling that comes with gliding through the treetops on a zipline is incomparable. Clockwise from top: Connolly Ranch in Napa group where children can interact with farm animals ranging from chick- ens to miniature horses; Walking a sky bridge in Occidental at Sonoma Zipline Adventures; Take three generations on a horse ride in Mendocino County on Manchester Beach — guaranteed fun for the entire family. – Photos courtesy of Connolly Ranch, Sonoma Zipline Adventures, Ross Ranch A Marketing Supplement of the Marin Independent Journal | marinij.com Summer Camps March 20, 2022 5