About Hickory Hearth Highlands
Our Farm
Nestled just 30 minutes south of Pittsburgh, our 125-acre family farm is home to a growing herd of Scottish Highland cattle and a variety of other friendly farm animals. Alongside the Highlands, we proudly raise corn, soybeans, and wheat, continuing a long tradition of diversified farming on our land.
Founder Reagan Carter is a seventh-generation farmer, carrying forward her family’s legacy of hard work, stewardship, and love for agriculture. That deep-rooted history shapes everything we do — from the way we care for our animals to how we welcome every visitor who steps onto the farm.
Every visit is a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and connect
with nature — and of course, our Highlands. We take pride in providing a safe, educational, and hands-on experience where guests can learn about agriculture, animal care, and the unique history of this beautiful breed.
Whether you’re here for a tour, a special event, or simply to share a few hugs, our farm is a place built on family, hard work, and a love for animals — seven generations strong.
Our Story
Hug A Highland began as a simple idea during the quiet months of 2020, when founder Reagan Carter sought a meaningful project to brighten the uncertainty of the pandemic. After convincing her father to bring home a Scottish Highland calf, they found Ollie through a local newspaper, and from that moment, the farm was never the same.
What started with one calf soon became a passion for the breed’s gentle spirit and distinctive charm. While studying Agricultural Science at Penn State, Reagan was encouraged by her father to find a way for the cattle to give back to the family farm. That inspiration led to the creation of Hug A Highland, a hands-on farm experience designed to connect people with these remarkable animals.
Today, Hug A Highland is one of the top-rated farm experiences in the Pittsburgh area combining education, connection, and joy. What began as a small dream has grown into a place where visitors can slow down, laugh, and discover the magic of Highlands up close.
Our Mission
Our mission is to carry forward a proud seven-generation farming legacy by fostering connections between people, animals, and the land. Through our interactive experiences with Scottish Highland cattle, we strive to educate guests about the importance of agriculture while promoting respect for animal care and sustainable farming practices. Hug A Highland exists to remind visitors that farming is more than a livelihood — it’s a way of life built on passion, purpose, and family.