Benzonia MI. 49616
About Us
Fantail Farm is a 120 acre farm in Joyfield Township, Benzie County Michigan. It has been in the Zenker family since 1966. There was a small Cherry and Plum orchard on the farm, as well as a sawmill- owned and operated by Fred (Fritz) Zenker. Cherries & Plums changed over to grain crops and eventually Christmas Trees. In 1999, the farm was passed down to the Zenker grandchildren. In 2003 the sawmill began its conversion into a horse barn and the former Christmas tree field into a horse pasture. Fantail Farm LLC was established in 2015, carrying on the family-first spirit of generations past through our herd of draft horses and dedication to the community.
We are open to serve our customers ALL YEAR! Wagon Rides are available in the Summer, Spring, and Fall – and when the snow flies, our Winter Sleigh Rides are a wonderful way to enjoy Northern Michigan winter.
The trails on property pass through forests and across open fields. Our spring, summer and fall tours give riders a view of rural and agricultural Joyfield Township. Winter sleigh rides are limited to the system of groomed trails on the property.
How We Started
In 2015 as our herd grew, there was enough interest to give horse-drawn rides to the public, the main focus being the horses working to help earn their keep. Once we were able to put a trail system in place, we were could begin. Currently, the herd is compromised of 6 American Brabant Draft Horses, 1 American Belgian and 1 Pony-Horse. They range in ages from 5 to 23 years old. You can learn more about the American Brabant Draft Horse at www.theamericanbrabantassociation.net
Your Hosts
Susan and Craig
We share a love of horses and are very happy to share our herd-family with anyone who is interested!
In 2020, with changes in gathering rules due to the pandemic, our first new individual warming shed was installed with its sister shed brought in early in 2021. They are moderately heated for guests to have privacy and protection from the elements. This along with a view of the horses while enjoying hot cocoa after the ride is part of the package when you make a reservation.
Update 11/15/2024
We are taking sleigh ride reservations now! only rain were snow!!! I know some of you aren't ready for winter, but we are! Fall wagon rides are still available, though the leaves are down, there's the smell of fall in the air and the crackle of leaves underfoot. We will be unavailable on November 30th, you can find us in Frankfort at the Holly Berry Show that morning.
Sleigh rides will begin as soon as there's enough snow on the trails. (if the ground is frozen-3 inches and if it's not- 6 inches of snow)