Local nonprofit organization Los Padres ForestWatch has teamed up with Cuyama Buckhorn, a boutique roadside resort and restaurant, to publish a comprehensive guide to outdoor activities in the Cuyama Valley.
The 56-page “Guide to the Outdoors in Cuyama Valley” — produced by ForestWatch and designed by the Cuyama Buckhorn — features trails, hiking tips, scenic drives, and other local destinations to guide visitors through the largely untapped region straddling Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Ventura and Kern counties.
The booklet includes safety tips, how to recreate responsibly, what gear to bring, and information about the area’s ecosystems, wildlife, Chumash culture, and resources to help plan your trip.
“The guide will help families and adventurers explore this area safely and responsibly, while learning about the role we all play in protecting this precious landscape,” said ForestWatch executive director Jeff Kuyper.
“We’re honored to partner with our friends at the Buckhorn to give folks a glimpse of all the outdoor opportunities that the Cuyama Valley has to offer,” he said.
Popular destinations in the guide include various trails in Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument, as well as waterfalls, pine-studded mountains, wine tasting, and the best spots for viewing wildlife and wildflowers.
For each trail or point of interest, the guide includes trailhead coordinates and a link to look up the location on a smartphone, difficulty rating, and detailed directions. Since many of the area’s trailheads do not have signs, the guide can help visitors navigate the area.
“I’ve always been passionate about the outdoors and inspired by old national park brochures and pamphlets,” said Kiana Toosi, brand manager for Cuyama Buckhorn. “Our goal with Cuyama Buckhorn has always been to spread the word about this incredible valley. It’s our most asked question — ‘What is there to do in the area?’ — so the opportunity to create a resource for both the local community and the wider public has been a labor of love.
“We’re excited to be able to make this guide and invite a new wave of explorers to this region that we call home.”
The “Guide to the Outdoors in Cuyama Valley” is available in print and electronic formats and can be purchased in the ForestWatch Storeonline, or in person at the Cuyama Buckhorn.
Los Padres ForestWatch works to protect Los Padres National Forest and neighboring public lands, including Carrizo Plain National Monument. To learn more, visit forestwatch.org.