New Era is located across from Stony Lake. Local offerings include trail rides at Stony Lake Stables, farm experiences and events at Country Dairy, and wine tasting at Oceana Winery and Vineyard. The William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park is nearby. The range of experiences spans trail rides and farm visits to an annual festival or wine tasting.

Trail Rides and Trails

Stony Lake Stables offers trail rides on mostly shaded trails. Riders may see deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The shade describes the character of the trails; wildlife sightings are a possible addition to the ride. Seasonal availability may vary.

The William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park is near New Era and features a 22-mile trail. In the 1980s, William Field converted a former railroad corridor into the trail. The length describes the trail, while its origins reflect the historic transition from railroad corridor to trail. It complements the trail rides and farm experiences with its own focus on local history and landscape.

Country Dairy: Programs and Summer Festival

Country Dairy’s “Behind the Barn” program includes a horse-drawn wagon ride around the farm with commentary, as well as a tour of the dairy barn, where cows are kept in a free-stall system. The ride and barn tour offer different perspectives: the ride takes you around the farm, while the tour focuses on how the cows are housed. The animals are free to move around.

Moo University is a hands-on educational program at Country Dairy’s farm. Originally designed for homeschool groups and interested families, it includes interactive lessons, live demonstrations, and up-close encounters with animals. Unlike “Behind the Barn,” it focuses on learning and participation rather than a ride and barn tour.

Country Dairy hosts the annual Ice Cream Social every summer. The program includes live music, unlimited ice cream from its own dairy, farm activities, and family entertainment. Dates change from year to year, so plan for the festival as a specific summer event.

Wine Tasting and Planning Your Visit

Oceana Winery and Vineyard offers tastings of fine wines; availability may vary. For planning, keep in mind that trail rides may vary seasonally, the Ice Cream Social takes place every summer but its dates change from year to year, and tasting availability may also vary. If a particular offering is a key reason for your trip, check the details for your intended travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Pentwater, Mears.

View the broader travel guide: Oceana County.