ROY, Wash. — Here in south Pierce County, alpacas gently graze as nearby llamas prepare to meet new friends. Marla Albitz is bringing humans and camelids together.
"My life profession was software development," Albitz said. "I knew I wanted a quieter life."
She and her husband, Mohan, built their second act here at Topstall Farm.
"This is me getting off the hamster wheel. But it became much bigger than that," Albitz said.
During the pandemic, Albitz began offering visitors the chance to take a walk with a llama. The experience went viral, eventually attracting thousands of guests per year.
"This isn't a petting zoo," Albitz said. "Here, I expect you to get a profound understanding of what these animals are about by the time you leave, understand the animal and work in harmony with them to have an enjoyable time."
First, you'll learn how to handle the harness. Then, Albitz pairs visitors with a llama.
"Not all llamas want to walk with people," Albitz said. "If I get a sense that a llama doesn't want to participate, I switch out for another llama."
All the llamas are males, which removes the drama of competition for mates.
The basic hike is a one-mile trek down a peaceful forest trail.
"A bit like a walking meditation," Albitz said. "Many people find it to be relaxing."
You could strike up a beautiful new friendship.
"They're very good listeners," Albitz said. "Many times on the trail, halfway through the trail, I'll say, 'Okay, folks, would you like to switch up llamas?' Most of the time, people don't want to, because they feel like they've bonded with the animal."
The experience helps guests develop a whole new set of life skills.
"As far as I'm concerned, when they leave they can be called llama handlers," she said.
Best of all, they take home memories of a walk in the woods with a gentle new friend.
"They're leaving smiling and delighted and sometimes even come back for another hike," Albitz said.
Topstall Farm is located in Roy, Wash. Farm visits and llama walks are available year-round by reservation only.
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