Frequently asked questions

Got other questions? Reach out anytime!

Contact info at bottom of page.

Mini Donkeys FAQs

  • Burro is the Spanish word for donkey, and burros and donkeys are actually the same species!

    In the US, the term burro is commonly used when referring to the wild / feral donkeys that roam the western United States after they were originally released during the expansion of the West and Gold Rush eras.

    Mini donkeys are also the same species as both, just a smaller version!

  • Mini donkeys typically range from 32 to 36 inches tall at the withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades) and 200 to 450lb.

    However, Geronimo, Wolfie, and Red Wing are smaller than the typical mini donkeys, weighing in at just 100 to 250lb! Wolfie is the smallest - at less than 26 inches tall and 106lb, he is roughly the size of a large dog! Red Wing is our largest mini donkey and we estimate his weight at 200-250lb.

  • Mini donkeys are known for their sweet, calm demeanor. Our mini donkeys in particular are well-socialized, accepting of new people, and remain relaxed even in busy public settings! Their small size also makes them dramatically easier to walk on lead than larger equines.

    Of course, your safety is our utmost concern, and we will take every precaution necessary to ensure your experience with our mini donkeys is safe and enjoyable.

  • Our mini donkeys have custom made pack saddles and can safely carry up to 20% of their body weight, which for our donkeys ranges from 20-40lb each depending on the donkey.

    Keep in mind their pack saddles are designed only for carrying weight, and cannot be used for riding.

Donkey Hikes & Visits FAQs

  • We recommend you check the local weather forecast prior to your trip and plan accordingly.

    If hot, dry conditions are expected, please wear light, breathable clothing. For cooler temperatures, layers are recommended.

    We also recommend hats and sunglasses, particularly in the late spring through early fall season.

    Always wear sturdy, well-supported footwear that is comfortable when walking over rocky, uneven terrain.

  • For our guided hikes:

    • You are welcome to bring any of the following items: Extra clothing layers, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, beverages, snacks, cameras, and tripods.

    • We will provide the following items for your hike: Water for all hikers, first aid kit, satellite communication device, toilet paper, and headlamp with extra batteries.

    • The following items are prohibited: Firearms and drones.

    You are always welcome to BYO food and beverages to enjoy at our ranch!

  • Yes! Children 2 years of age and older can take part in donkey hikes & ranch visits. All participants less than 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult, and the accompanying adult is responsible for ensuring any children follow our safety guidelines for handling the donkeys.

  • Unfortunately, no! Dogs are not permitted on our ranch visits and donkey hikes, since donkeys do not like dogs and often see them as predators. 

    For your dog's safety, we ask that you make other arrangements for them during your visit. Thank you for understanding!

  • We do not have restroom facilities on the premises.

    However, nature is always available! We will provide toilet paper and a bag for you to pack it out in if needed.

  • Yes, our insurance coverage requires that every donkey hike or ranch visit participant signs a release of liability that informs of them of the risks of participating in this activity.

  • You may cancel your booking for any reason up to 48 hours before your scheduled hike or visit for a full refund.

    Since wind and rain can be unpredictable, you’re also welcome to cancel for a full refund at any time in the event of poor weather.

Beer Burros FAQs

  • Beer burro is the name lovingly given to a donkey that carries beers or other refreshments in their saddle baskets to serve at events!

  • We have partnered with our friend and neighbor, Heather, at Beer Burros & Brands to bring Geronimo, Red Wing, and Wolfie to your events!

    To book us, simply go to the Beer Burros & Brands website and submit a request with your information! Heather will then reach out to discuss all the details.

  • Our mini donkeys can be booked as beer burros for almost any event, including but not limited to weddings, parties, festivals, proposals, special occasions, corporate events, and business openings!

    We are also available for filming and photoshoots.

  • Since Geronimo, Red Wing, and Wolfie are smaller than the typical mini donkeys and are limited in the weight they can carry, we ask that they be booked in pairs (Geronimo + Wolfie or Red Wing + Wolfie) or all three together!

  • Geronimo and Red Wing can carry the equivalent of 15-20 bottled beers each plus ice. We can easily refill their pannier baskets with fresh beers from a cooler once they are depleted.

    Wolfie is particularly tiny and limited to carrying the equivalent of two bottles of wine, champagne, or liquor at a time.

    If you'd like to ensure a maximum number of refreshments are carried and served, we recommend booking all three mini donkeys!

  • To ensure the safety and happiness of our mini donkeys, we prefer to avoid events that may include extremely loud music, tall flights of stairs (3-4 steps at a time are ok), or unleashed dogs.

    We're happy to discuss the details of your event and let you know as soon as possible if it is likely to be a good fit!