They can start with light packing as yearlings. When properly conditioned, a goat can carry 30 to 60 pounds over 5 to 15 mountain miles a day. Omar, the Wiecks' 250-pound goat, can carry up to 70 pounds. Because they forage and browse like deer, there is no need to pack in food for the goats. They especially like the noxious weed leafy spurge and work as weed controllers in the backcountry and in home pastures.
Goats can travel over a wide variety of terrain and can be trained to cross streams.
The Wiecks advised, however, that hikers check regulations before taking goats as pack animals. For example, goats are not allowed in national parks. Kurt noted that goats walk a little more slowly out on the trail than he and Jodi were accustomed to, and this has forced them to slow down and enjoy the scenery. The goats are frequently the first to spot wildlife, giving the Wiecks opportunities to get much closer to wild animals. With four goats of their own and two boarders, the Wiecks have plenty of help on their outdoor expeditions.