Vermont Alpaca Farms
Alpacas: Camels of the Northeast Thrive in Vermont
Alpaca scarfs, alpaca mittens, and more are just a few of the items made in Vermont from alpaca. Even if you’re prepared, your first glimpse of a Vermont alpaca is going to pleasantly unsettle you, and no explanation is going to help for at least a little while.
If you think that what you’re looking at is a cross between a sheep and a giraffe you will be forgiven. Ask us about VT Alpaca Farms or share comments. To feature your business, contact us.
Vermont Alpaca Farms
In fact, few creatures are more at home in the northeast than the alpaca. Originally from the Andes, the alpaca goes into winter blanketed with as much as seven pounds of the finest fleece on earth and watches the coldest, clearest February nights pass by with relative indifference. So would you if you had a coat like that. Of course, you can get a coat like that, or what you need to make one: Terry Miller, owner of Snowshoe Farm in Peacham, Vermont will sell you some wonderful Vermont products – like an alpaca fleece or other alpaca products. But be prepared to pony up some serious dollars-fabrics made from alpaca fleece are among the most coveted in the world. A sweater will go for over $250, and a scarf for about $65.
Once thought of as animal uncomfortable at heights under 10,000 feet, the book on this member of the camel family has been re-written; alpacas are quite happy at the sub-3,000 elevations common in northern New England.
Twenty years ago, there were several million alpacas, nearly all in the mountains of Peru – and none in the United States. Today, there are over ninety alpaca farms in the northern United States, with at least thirty in Vermont; most of them are registered, including Miller’s. (There are many smaller operations with herds of a dozen or less.)
Registration is a very good idea: an alpaca with proven bloodlines showing excellent fleece quality can be worth as much as a nice Lexus. Miller began her adventure with alpacas in 1996, on a farm in Hartland. “We had a house that was surrounded by open pasture and we had to do something to keep it that way. We thought about getting a tractor or sheep and then we saw an ad for alpacas. We were intrigued and began researching the animals.
“I had not worked for a number of years and was looking for some kind of home business. The alpaca industry in this country was young and growing and it seemed very exciting. I have always had an interest in fiber arts and had just learned to spin and knit. Everything just came together for us, I had the time, we had the land and we had some money to invest. Snowshoe farm was born and we have not regretted it for a minute since.”
Alpacas make sense in Vermont for several reasons: They don’t mind the cold; they’ll eat just about anything, and they offer a viable lifestyle similar to that of the small, rural farm almost absent in twenty-first-century Vermont. Alpacas are happy with hay or pretty much anything they can find on the range in the warmer months. They demand minimal pasture, and, according to several sources, ride happily in the back of your family van, should you be so disposed.
Golden Retrievers of the camel family, alpacas are sociable and good-tempered unless they are greatly annoyed; then they become more like junkyard dogs and show their displeasure by spitting. (They lack upper teeth, and have unique lips that make this possible.)
Until recently, the Andean llama (a close relative of the alpaca) was to the Peruvian what the buffalo once was to the Plains Indian: nothing was wasted. Besides the many uses of the fleece, the meat was eaten, the hides used to fashion footwear, the tallow in candle making, and the dried excrement used as fuel.
The alpaca, with its abundance of high-quality fleece, was, perhaps, treated with more respect. (In fact, the Incas considered the alpaca to be a divine gift.) While the llamas at lower elevations were being slaughtered by Pizarro’s troops 500 years ago, the alpacas retreated to much greater heights, where the Spanish were loath to go. So, the alpaca’s tolerance to warmer weather may have been misconstrued.
Alpacas have been called “the world’s finest livestock investment.” Obviously, it is difficult to compare alpacas with other securities. Unlike the stock market, alpacas are depreciable over five years, giving the investor an immediate investment return in tax savings while his herd is growing.
Buying your own alpacas is a major investment since registered animals go from $5,000 to $30,000. Miller’s herd represents a layout of more than $200,000. Her alpacas are insured and treated much the same as other hard capital in that they depreciate over time. In addition, every expense associated with your alpaca – from the barn to the computer- can be written off come tax time.
If you’ve got some cash in a stagnant mutual fund, or quietly aging in precious metals, your best bet might be to buy a bred female and board it at your local alpaca farm -for instance, Snowshoe Farm, which will charge you two dollars a day. If you become the lucky owner of a fine “infant” -known as a cria- your options multiply. Should you do nothing but shear their coats, you can expect about $420 in fleece. So in terms of fleece alone, your animals will never pay for themselves.
The real money is made by selling bred females, offering the best males as studs (c. $ 2,000), and then harvesting the fleece. Theoretically, one can recover one’s investment in two years; in fact, not every cria has the perfect balance of appearance (conformance), fiber quality, and, shall we say in regard to the males, joie de vivre. Most of the larger alpaca retailers offer payment plans that will help get you into the game.
So, if your portfolio is top-heavy with stocks and bonds, you might want to consider an alpaca, which in a perfect world can pay for itself in two years. Besides, what other investment can you literally wear and snuggle up to simultaneously?
– Chris Dunlap
ALPACA SCARFS
- Our luxurious herringbone scarf is sure to become a versatile addition to any wardrobe. A classic style in all natural, timeless neutrals or fresh modern color sure to chase the chill away.
- Bundle up in cozy style this season with this double sided Contrast baby alpaca wool scarf, certified pure by the International Alpaca Association, assures you the finest of alpaca scarves.
- Beautifully woven from 100% pure Baby Alpaca it measures 71in X 12 in including fringe. Go ahead, wrap it, tie it, enjoy it!
- Naturally thermal, warm & cozy - perfect for whatever weather finds you. Rain, snow, sleet, they won't damage or water spot this scarff & NO wet sheep smell either!
- Sustainable, fairly sourced & environmentally friendly - baby alpaca wool is shorn from the animals once a year with the greatest of care, a necessary part of maintaining good animal health.
- Dry Cleaning recommended for longest life, however due to the nature of alpaca, minimal cleaning is needed.
- LUXURIOUSLY SOFT BABY ALPACA FIBER - Crafted from 100% genuine pure Peruvian baby alpaca, this black winter muffler offers unmatched comfort and warmth for men and women. Ultra-soft and breathable, it’s warmer than wool and ideal for those seeking a long, soft neck scarf in dark grey, navy, or brown tones.
- INCREDIBLY WARM AND LIGHTWEIGHT - Designed with natural insulating fibers, the baby alpaca scarf traps warmth without bulk. Unlike cotton or cashmere, alpaca offers breathable comfort in cold months. Perfect for winter mens scarf styles, teen fashion, or womens cozy buffalo plaid and striped scarf needs.
- HYPOALLERGENIC AND NON-ITCHY - Free from lanolin, the allergen in wool, this alpaca scarf is hypoallergenic and itch-free. A great choice for sensitive skin, it offers comfort for all ages, including teens. Pairs well with a gray or black coat and matches holiday or christmas scarf sets in light pink or blue.
- ETHICALLY SOURCED AND ECO-FRIENDLY - Each scarf is produced with care using low-impact alpaca practices in Peru. Softer on the environment than cotton or traditional wool, the scarf is available in limited production. Ideal for conscious buyers seeking sustainable womens or mens outlet fashion options.
- TIMELESS STYLE FOR ANY OCCASION - A versatile long muffler, this alpaca scarf blends classic design with everyday utility. Available in subtle tones like plum, orange, and dark grey, it complements casual and formal outfits alike. A thoughtful winter piece among alpaca scarfs or buffalo set accessories.
- 89% Alpaca for incredible softness and 11% Polyamide used to maintain shape and sizing
- Affordable luxury made in Ireland by Mucros Weavers in County Kerry
- Perfectly sized at 10.5 inches wide by 72 inches long plus 3 inches of fringing on each end
- Five incredible color blends inspired by the fusion of hues seen in nature
- High quality Irish product made one at a time in the Killarney National Forest
- Genuine Alpaca Wool Handmade in Ecuador
- Fair Trade Artisanal Collection
- One Size: 63" Long x 8" Wide
- Care: Machine wash on gentle cycle, or hand wash. Air dry.
- Premium Alpaca Blend – Made with 70% alpaca and 30% wool, this scarf combines unmatched softness, natural warmth, and durability. Enjoy the feel of luxury at an accessible price.
- Soft, Lightweight & Cozy – Naturally warm yet breathable, alpaca wool keeps you comfortable in cold weather without bulk. Perfect for daily wear, travel, or layering.
- Handmade in Peru by Artisans – Carefully crafted in the Andes using traditional techniques that support local communities and preserve centuries-old textile heritage.
- Elegant Unisex Design – Modern gray alpaca scarf with refined fringes. A versatile neutral color that fits seamlessly into any wardrobe.
- Perfect Winter Gift – From snowy streets to chilly commutes, this alpaca wool scarf is the ultimate cold-weather essential. A thoughtful, authentic Peruvian gift for him or her.
- Made of Pure Authentic 100% Baby Alpaca Wool
- Woven Unisex Scarf
- Solid color, perfect for any occasion
- Product Dimensions: Scarf: 65" x 12.5"
- By Alpaca Warehouse, made in Peru
- Authentic: an original NOVICA artisan handcrafted fair trade product.
- Certified: comes with an official NOVICA Story Card certifying quality & authenticity.
- NOVICA works with Alfredo Falcon to craft this item.
- Exceptional Quality: crafted with care to be treasured as a keepsake for many years to come.
- Product info: 45% acrylic, 40% alpaca, 15% wool
- Alpaca Scarf: Discover the magic of the GAMBOA alpaca scarf for men, a textile treasure with unique properties. Originating from the exquisite wool of alpacas, this scarf seamlessly blends luxury and functionality. Its unparalleled softness and lightweight embrace envelop you in warmth, providing comfort without bulk. Moreover, its durability and resilience make it a lasting investment.
- Stay Warm In Style! Our alpaca scarfs blend style and warmth, making them the perfect choice for the fall/winter season. Thanks to their natural fibers, their softness, and insulating ability will keep you cozy without extra weight, allowing greater mobility and comfort in your daily activities. Combine comfort, warmth, fashion, and elegance in one garment!
- Lightweight And Softness: The lightweight nature of alpaca wool makes our scarfs incredibly warm and comfortable to wear, allowing for easy movement and avoiding any sense of bulkiness or heaviness. Its silky texture is a true delight to the skin, offering an unmatched experience of comfort and well-being. Additionally, alpaca wool is hypoallergenic, which means it is less likely to cause irritation or itching on the skin.
- Eco-Conscious Choice: Choosing an alpaca garment is not just a fashion choice, it's a declaration of commitment to sustainability! Every time you wear an alpaca wool garment, you demonstrate that fashion can be both elegant and environmentally conscious at the same time. Support sustainability by choosing alpaca wool, sourced from a renewable and ethically produced origin, connecting your values with a more conscious world.
- Approx Size: Length: 185 cm. (72.83").
- NATURAL ☼ This article is woven of nothing but pure baby alpaca wool and is not blended with any artificial or lower-cost materials.
- TOP QUALITY ☼ One of the world's finest natural fibers, alpaca wool is warmer and lighter than sheep's wool, durable, hypoallergenic, and wrinkle and odor resistant. Baby alpaca wool is an extra-fine grade comparable in fineness to cashmere.
- GENTLE ☼ Alpaca fiber does not pick or scratch like the wool of other animals and is appropriate for use by babies and those with sensitive skin.
- AUTHENTIC ☼ This article was crafted by hand in South America and every purchase supports families of artisans living in the Andes mountains.
- ETHICAL ☼ No animals were harmed during the manufacture of this product and the item was crafted under fair conditions.
- VERSATILE ☼ Wear this garment as a normal scarf, push the end in on itself to make a pocket and use it as a hat or hand warmer, or wrap around the face for use as a mask
- TOP QUALITY ☼ One of the world's finest natural fibers, alpaca wool is warmer and lighter than sheep's wool, durable, hypoallergenic, and wrinkle and odor resistant. Baby alpaca wool is an extra-fine grade comparable in fineness to cashmere.
- GENTLE ☼ Alpaca fiber does not pick or scratch like the wool of other animals and is appropriate for use by babies and those with sensitive skin.
- AUTHENTIC ☼ This article was crafted by hand in South America and every purchase supports families of artisans living in the Andes mountains.
- ETHICAL ☼ No animals were harmed during the manufacture of this product and the item was crafted under fair conditions.
- Made by Mucros Weavers in Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland
- 100% Alpaca
- Dry Clean Only
- Length is 77"(including fringe) and width measures 12.5"
- Soft and Comfy: These slippers work a wool-like upper and skin-friendly lining for a premium feel. Your feet will feel like stepping on a warm velvety carpet beside your bed anywhere anytime. Their cute looks match well with the cozy atmosphere of your home
- Lightweight and Breathable: Slip-on design makes it convenient for you to put on or off these house slippers. Your feet can breathe freely in them, and even if you sweat a lot, these slippers can quickly dry your feet to keep them comfortable
- Durable and Non-Slip: Featuring a anti-skid sole, they are designed to provide excellent grip and are built to last, making them suitable for most indoor and outdoor activities. Take a pair of comfy slippers and enjoy your restful world-wide travel
- Cloud-like Footbed: High-density 80D memory foam provides cushioning for your each step, relieving your muscle tension. These cozy ladies slippers are perfect for all-day wear and you will never want to take off this kind of comfort. They are hand and machine washable
- Size Tips & Delicate Gifts: With chic style and warm touch, these furry slippers can be great gift choices for special days. You can give them to the women you love, like your mom and wife. Coming in various sizes, you can choose your usual size. But if you have wide feet or a high instep, or if you are normally between sizes, we recommend sizing up by 0.5 for a better fit
- SIZE 10.5-13 BOOT SOCKS: Our thickest alpaca socks ideal for cold weather, made to stand against the coldest temperatures. The perfect fit for facing the bitter cold, or warming up post-outdoor adventure. Made with 70% Premium Peruvian Baby Alpaca Fiber, 27% Nylon and 3% Spandex. Available in grey and black and a variety of sizes for men and women.
- FOR EVERY ACTIVITY: Softer and stronger than most other materials typically found in socks, alpaca fiber continues to prove it can withstand a wide range of activities and adventures. Whether you’re looking for hiking socks, hunting socks, running socks, thermal socks, warm socks, winter socks, ski socks, or just a pair of cozy socks for work or relaxing - the benefits of Hollow alpaca socks will keep your feet comfortable.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABLE: Compared to traditional merino wool socks, alpaca fibers have better insulation properties at a lighter weight. The hollow fibers help regulate any temperature, keeping feet warmer or cooler for much longer periods of time. Alpaca fiber is a unique material that can wick moisture, to help keep feet dry and endure long wear.
- HYPOALLERGENIC & ITCH FREE: Because alpaca fiber is lanolin-free, our alpaca socks for men and women are hypoallergenic and itch-free. The structure of alpaca fibers is not only soft, it also helps provide a cushion against callus buildups, that may help with blisters and foot health.
- MADE IN THE USA: Our baby alpaca socks are soft, comfortable, and crafted for easy cleaning. Simply wash in cool water and hang to dry. Designed in Wisconsin by outdoor enthusiasts, and made in North Carolina
- Soft and Comfortable: Wool socks for women are made of material wool, cotton, polyester; Womens wool socks are very soft, breathable, durable and will keep your feet comfortable and warm
- Size and Care: Boots socks for women are a standard US SIZE that fit shoe sizes from US 5 - 9, so everyone can enjoy womens boot socks; Highly elastic crew socks fit your feet perfectly, so you don't have to worry about loosening or slipping
- Details with Heart: Warm socks for women have classic color and different styles, which are durable; With tight stitches and reinforced heel and toe design, warm socks can not only ensure long-term use, but also make you feel comfortable all day
- Widely Used: Winter socks for women are suitable for many situations, you can wear socks as boot socks, hiking socks, work socks, school socks, fuzzy socks, sports socks, cozy socks, Christmas socks in fall, winter, spring
- Gifts For Women: Fuzzy socks for women can be matched with all kinds of boots and winter shoes you like, socks make great gifts for her, mom, grandma, and friends, for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Mother's Day, or as Christmas stocking stuffers to bring happiness
- 【Premium Baby Alpaca Comfort】; Experience the unparalleled softness and warmth of our socks, made with 62% baby alpaca yarn. Renowned for its skin-friendly properties and exceptional temperature regulation, baby alpaca provides all-day comfort, even in extreme cold weather. Indulge in the perfect balance of luxury and durability with every step you take.
- 【Ultimate Warmth & Thickness】; Crafted specifically for winter outdoor adventures, these socks provide optimal insulation to keep your feet cozy during hunting trips, outdoor work, or brisk hikes, ensuring you stay warm in cold weather.
- 【Thermo Toe Shield】; Featuring a reinforced toe area for enhanced warmth, our socks ensure your toes—often the first to feel the chill—stay snug and comfortable all winter long.
- 【Alpaca vs Merino】Alpaca is lighter, softer, and offers better warmth compared to Merino wool.
- 【Moisture-Wicking & Quick-Drying】; Harness the power of our moisture-wicking material to keep your feet dry and comfortable, while retaining essential warmth, crucial for an active lifestyle during winter escapades.
- Small: Men 5-7.5/ Women 6.5-9; Medium: Men 8-10 / Women 9.5-11.5; Large: Men 10.5-13 / Women 12-14.5
- 【Alpaca Merino Blend】Our alpaca socks blend 60% premium baby alpaca with 22% Australian Merino for exceptional softness, warmth, and durability without bulk. Warm yet breathable, they feature a brushed interior lined with thick, plush alpaca fleece from toe to comfortable cuff. Lycra spandex adds resilient stretch and a secure stay‑up fit. Reinforced toes and heels boost longevity for trekking, working, making them steadfast companions when the mercury plunges in brutal cold.
- 【Dry Comfort】Renowned for moisture control, hollow‑core alpaca fibers wick and regulate temperature, absorbing up to 30% moisture and drying faster than many fabrics. Sorbtek yarn by Unifi (USA) speeds transport to keep feet drier and fresher. Breathability helps reduce odor and foot fatigue, sustaining comfort through temperature swings. Whether hiking, hunting, skiing, or relaxing, these thermal winter socks keep you comfortable all day.
- 【California Design】Created by outdoor enthusiasts in California, where our lead designers live and test through four-season conditions, these socks reflect real cold-weather know-how from trail to town. Baby alpaca is skin-friendly and itch-free, delivering exceptional temperature regulation for all-day comfort in extreme cold. High-content baby alpaca balances luxury and durability. Slip them on after the chill and feel warmth return without overheating indoors.
- 【Compression and Reinforce】5–10mmHg light compression targets your calves to promote circulation and reduce fatigue on long days. Tuned support stays comfortable without constricting or bunching. EnduraToe Cap reinforces the toe for durability and abrasion resistance; robust heels resist wear. With Air‑core alpaca insulation and a plush brushed lining, these socks deliver steady, non‑bulky warmth plus a stable fit and lasting resilience.
- 【Your Stylish Winter Essential】Heat Equation alpaca socks. Gentle on skin yet deeply warm, they breathe, wick, and stay fresh so comfort lasts. As a gift, they wrap every step in quiet assurance—the baby alpaca–Merino blend and plush brushed interior feel like a hug that endures. Share warmth that’s practical and personal: everyday luxury, beautifully made and quietly dependable, reminding them of you each time they slip them on.
- ❤ 【BEST MATERIAL & BENEFIT】：29% Cotton, 35% Soft Wool, 36% Polyester,This womens wool socks is very soft, breathable, durable and will keep your feet comfortable and warm,It's best gifts for women 2024 !!These women winter socks are designed with soft materials to keep moisture out, assured your feet comfortable, fresh and dry, awesome cozy and breathability.These socks provide you the better quality, It's very worth to have them, Please be assured purchase.
- ❤【VINTAGE COLOR DESIGN】FYC socks for women are amazing, fashionable and colorful casual socks.These high quality women thick knit thermal socks are suitable for different situation,These casual socks to match up with your favorite casual jeans,coordinate with whatever you're wearing as office, school, hiking, outdoor, sport, indoor, home, work,dress, boot socks, christmas socks in Spring, fall, winter season or in any cold weather or snow areas!
- ❤ 【PERFECT SIZE & CARE】：5 pack womens wool winter socks is fitting shoe size from 5 to 9,which is a standard US size,so everyone can enjoy these womens thick warm socks. Please do not iron them and suggesting wash them by hand, high quality socks require the proper care!
- ❤ 【Mulit-function &Excellent Gift Choice】：Everyone need more soft warm socks.FYC womens wool socks for winter is warmth, soft and comfortable,breathable,durable that is the perfect wear for christmas or daily wear.These cabin socks can be as a halloween gifts, christmas gifts,Thanksgiving,Novelty birthday gifts or women socks gift to Mom, your child, wife,girlfriend,grandma or anyone.Brighten up those cold winter mornings with these snuggly cozy socks to keep your lover toes warm.
- ❤ 【FYC SUPPORT 】：5 packs womans wool socks mix colors winter socks as picture show.Your purchase is fully protected when you order today. If you are not satisfied with your vintage socks, contact us any time, we will get you back within 24 hours try our best to make things right!
- Material:Sherpa lamb onesie pajamas [100% Polyester].
- The image design of adults alpaca costume is vivid and life like.
- 23℃ for wamth, fluffy cozy and light fleece.
- Zipper closure, easy to wear snug fitting, sleepwear use Environmentally Friendly Dyes are safer for adults.
- Machine wash, quick drying.
- SIZE 10.5-13 CREW SOCKS: Our crew performance alpaca socks are perfect for year round comfort with light compression, a classic crew style sock elevated. Made with 47% Premium Peruvian Baby Alpaca Fiber, 47% Nylon and 6% Spandex. Available in grey and black and a variety of sizes for men and women.
- FOR EVERY ACTIVITY: Softer and stronger than most other materials typically found in socks, alpaca fiber continues to prove it can withstand a wide range of activities and adventures. Whether you’re looking for hiking socks, hunting socks, running socks, thermal socks, warm socks, winter socks, ski socks, or just a pair of cozy socks for work or relaxing - the benefits of Hollow alpaca socks will keep your feet comfortable.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABLE: Compared to traditional merino wool socks, alpaca fibers have better insulation properties at a lighter weight. The hollow fibers help regulate any temperature, keeping feet warmer or cooler for much longer periods of time. Alpaca fiber is a unique material that can wick moisture, to help keep feet dry and endure long wear.
- HYPOALLERGENIC & ITCH FREE: Because alpaca fiber is lanolin-free, our alpaca socks for men and women are hypoallergenic and itch-free. The structure of alpaca fibers is not only soft, it also helps provide a cushion against callus buildups, that may help with blisters and foot health.
- MADE IN THE USA: Our baby alpaca socks are soft, comfortable, and crafted for easy cleaning. Simply wash in cool water and hang to dry. Designed in Wisconsin by outdoor enthusiasts, and made in North Carolina
- USA Size 7-13: These men warm winter socks are one size fit 6-11. Easy to clean for machine wash and hand to wash. Suggest cold washes and tumble or air dry. No one but the wearer knows where the shoes pinches, the socks, too. Ideal for your winter sneakers. Match your wool ankle socks up with your casual attire, and yet dressy for formal events.
- Selected Material: The most important factor is the material when choosing wool hiking socks for men, outdoor running socks. Annsuki made with wool blended, soft handle, non slip stay up elastic cuff, strong warmth retention, no pilling, no fading, hard wearing, moisture absorption, cushioned and anti-blister make your feet comfortable all day.
- Ergonomic Design: Winter hiking socks for men stays up top well without slipping off with elastic ribbed cuff. Seamless toes design to reduce toe pain and avoid blisters. Y-shaped heel is stable structure and durable, it wears well and keep its shape. Wool socks men cold weather is suitable for Birthday Anniversary Christmas Bachelor Party.
- Ideal for Gift: Annsuki warm socks with superior fit technology. Comfortable and durable. Warm sock thermal for men with classic style never goes out for all seasons in for winter, sport, hiking, running, daily work, driving etc.. Make a best gift for father husbands boy friend family or yourself etc..
- 5 Pairs of Socks and Guarantee: 5 Packs Hiking socks for Mens include Black Navy Coffee Olive and light Gray. Every Annsuki socks come with an ONE year return or refund. If you have any issues with yours, please contact us right away to get a new sock set or refund. Any questions would be taken care and replied 7/24H.
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