Vicarious Ranch

Founded by Mike and Christy Larsen, Vicarious Ranch is located in the heart of California's Central Coast wine country, near Paso Robles and the mission town of San Miguel. The Larsens left the hustle and bustle of city life to pursue their dream of quiet country living, a dream shared by many of their family and friends. The ranch's name reflects this shared aspiration, as many live vicariously through their rural adventure. The ranch is surrounded by a community of homesteads, cattle ranches, a seasonal u-pick orchard, a small vineyard, and a budding olive grove.

Vicarious Ranch employs organic practices, avoiding pesticides and ensuring that all animals are 100% pasture-raised. The pigs and chickens receive a supplemental diet free of GMOs, soy, and wheat, while the sheep are entirely grass-fed and finished. The land is cross-fenced to facilitate rotational grazing, promoting healthy pastures of native grasses, blue oaks, and pines. The ranch also features a seasonal vegetable garden and a 70+ tree fruit orchard, benefiting from the region's hot summer days and cool nights.

The ranch maintains a year-round farm stand offering USDA processed meat, eggs, goat milk soap, lotions, and occasionally surplus fruits and vegetables. Although the farm is not open to the public, it hosts special events like goat walks and socials. Livestock guardian dogs and border collies assist in managing the herds, ensuring the smooth operation of this busy yet picturesque ranch.