The Cuyama Buckhorn: Hiking with a unique twist

The Cuyama Valley is a lonely place in the middle of a high desert. But in this lonely valley, there is an oasis…the Cuyama Buckhorn.

The “Buckhorn” is a watering hole for local tourists and a weekend getaway for tourists.

Sam Seidenberg is the bar lead at the Buckhorn with a strong passion for serving good times and exploring nature.

Over the years behind the bar, many tourists have asked him where they can explore around the area. It was a tricky question to answer.

“I was writing directions on napkins, like maps out for people leading them into the backcountry,” said Seidenberg.

These conversations sparked an idea with Buckhorn owner Jeff Vance for developing a recreation venture through the Buckhorn.

“We figured well why don’t we build some trails? So I explored the property, found some cool routes, built some trails and then the goats came into the picture and it kinda went from there,” said Seidenberg.

Goats? Oh yes.

Seidenberg has sidekicks for his adventures: Manzana, Sisquoc and White Ledge.

The goats are experienced outdoorsman. In their previous role, they packed in food and supplies for trail workers deep in the Los Padres backcountry. Now, they pack food and water for tourists along the hikes and of course, are great company.

Seidenberg and his goats take his guests through the Sierra Madre foothills. He talks about the history of the Chumash people, the Cuyama Valley and all the wildlife and vegetation around the area.

Along the hike, he points out which plants are edible, with him and the guests sampling and harvesting some to save for later.

After the hike, the group gathers back at the goat pen and Seidenberg prepares mocktails. Freshly squeezed lemon and orange along with pomegranate, carbonated water and the harvested elderberry and yerba santa along the hike make for a refreshing post-hike cap.

The goat hikes have been going for over a year now.

And although its popularity is growing, Seidenberg says he wants to keep his simple model going forward.

“I don’t want this project to grow. It’s me and it’s three goats and that’s what it is,” said Seidenberg.