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The Gentle Barn: A Sanctuary of Healing and Compassion

Experience compassion and healing at The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita, a sanctuary for rescued farm animals and a place for humans to connect with them on a deeper level.

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The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita offers a unique and heartwarming experience, providing a safe haven for rescued farm animals and a place for humans to connect with them on a deeper level. This six-acre sanctuary, nestled in the scenic mountains, is home to over 170 animals, each with a story of resilience and recovery. Visitors can hug cows, cuddle turkeys, give pigs tummy rubs, and learn about the importance of kindness and compassion towards all living beings. Open to the public on Sundays, The Gentle Barn also hosts private tours and special events, making it a memorable destination for animal lovers of all ages. It's a place where both animals and humans find healing and understanding, fostering a sense of empathy and connection that extends beyond the barnyard.

A brief summary to The Gentle Barn

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance online, especially for Sunday visits, as they tend to sell out.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities, as you'll be walking around the farm and interacting with animals.
  • Respect the animals' space and follow the instructions of the staff and volunteers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
  • Consider bringing a vegan snack or lunch to enjoy on the picnic tables, as The Gentle Barn promotes a compassionate lifestyle.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as the farm is primarily an outdoor venue.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Interstate 5, exit onto CA-14 North towards Lancaster/Palmdale. Take the Sand Canyon Road exit and turn left. Go over the canyon and turn right onto Sierra Highway. The Gentle Barn will be approximately 1.1 miles on the left. Parking is available on-site, but it can be limited during peak hours. Consider arriving early, especially on Sundays. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation directly to The Gentle Barn is limited, you can take the Metrolink Antelope Valley Line to the Santa Clarita station. From there, utilize a ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) for the final 15-20 minute drive to the sanctuary. A ride-sharing trip will typically cost between $20-$30. Check the Santa Clarita Transit website for local bus routes that may connect to Sierra Highway, reducing the ride-sharing distance.

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Discover more about The Gentle Barn

The Gentle Barn is more than just an animal sanctuary; it's a place where stories of resilience, forgiveness, and unconditional love come to life. Founded in 1999 by Ellie Laks, the Gentle Barn began as a small rescue operation in her backyard and has since blossomed into a six-acre paradise in Santa Clarita, California. This haven provides a safe and loving home for over 170 rescued farm animals, each with a unique background of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Visitors to The Gentle Barn are invited to immerse themselves in the animals' world, offering a hands-on experience that fosters empathy and understanding. Imagine hugging a gentle cow, feeling the soft feathers of a rescued turkey, or giving a pig a belly rub – these are just a few of the heartwarming interactions that await. The animals, including cows, horses, pigs, chickens, turkeys, goats, and sheep, roam freely in spacious pastures, their physical and emotional wounds slowly healing with each passing day. The Gentle Barn's mission extends beyond animal rescue; it's deeply committed to educating the public about the importance of treating all beings with kindness and respect. Through guided tours and educational programs, visitors learn about the individual stories of the animals, gaining insight into the realities of factory farming and the impact of human actions on animal welfare. The sanctuary also partners with schools and organizations to provide unique learning experiences for children, particularly those with special needs or from at-risk backgrounds. The atmosphere at The Gentle Barn is one of tranquility and connection. As you wander through the grounds, you'll notice the animals' calm demeanor and their willingness to interact with humans. This is a testament to the dedicated staff and volunteers who provide round-the-clock care, ensuring that each animal receives the love, attention, and medical treatment they deserve. The Gentle Barn is a place where animals and humans heal together, fostering a sense of empathy and compassion that extends far beyond the barnyard. Visiting The Gentle Barn is an experience that touches the heart and inspires positive change. It's a reminder that every living being deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, and that even in the face of adversity, resilience and forgiveness are always possible. Whether you're an animal lover, an educator, or simply seeking a meaningful experience, The Gentle Barn offers a unique opportunity to connect with animals on a deeper level and discover the transformative power of compassion. The Gentle Barn is open to the public on Sundays, providing a chance to meet the animals, hear their stories, and participate in hands-on activities. Private tours and VIP experiences are also available for those seeking a more personalized visit. Throughout the year, the sanctuary hosts special events, including holiday celebrations, educational workshops, and fundraising events, all designed to support its mission of animal rescue and education. The Gentle Barn is not just a place to visit; it's a place to connect, learn, and be inspired to make a difference in the world. Beyond the animals themselves, The Gentle Barn offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The six-acre property is nestled in the mountains of Santa Clarita, providing a picturesque backdrop for a day of animal interaction and reflection. Visitors can stroll through the organic vegetable garden, relax under the shade trees, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Gentle Barn is a place where you can reconnect with nature, find peace and tranquility, and leave feeling inspired to live a more compassionate life. The impact of The Gentle Barn extends far beyond its physical location. Through its online presence and social media channels, the sanctuary reaches millions of people around the world, sharing stories of animal rescue, promoting veganism, and advocating for animal rights. The Gentle Barn has become a global movement, inspiring individuals to adopt a more compassionate lifestyle and to support organizations that are working to protect animals and promote animal welfare. The Gentle Barn is a testament to the power of one person's vision and the transformative impact that can be achieved through kindness, compassion, and a deep love for animals.

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