Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Preserve — Attraction in Murrieta

I found this while searching for scenic places to take photos in or around Murrieta. Once I arrived at the park office, I picked up a hiking map and paid a small fee to use the park. Lots of park info is also available there so do read up on it or talk to the lady at the front desk office who's very knowledgeable. Depending on where you wish to hike, you may have to take another 5 minutes drive down the road to the park's second parking area.

I took the Los Santos trail because it was shorter and that I only had a few hours that afternoon. The trail was filled with old oak trees, some tall grassy areas and views of the valley from the hills. Many large spiders can be seen on the trail during this time of year and are interesting to look at. Some species of cacti also line the trails in certain areas. The elevation is manageable and should be good for most people to hike.

Photography is great from mid to late afternoon as the sunlight is lower and casts great shadows. If you are in this area and don't know where to go, try this for a day, or perhaps a half day. It is worth the short drive up the hills. Just remeber, the park closes at 6:20 PM so you have to be at your car before then. The gates will...

Honestly one of the best trails Ive experienced. There are soo many acres of land and everytime I take new routes. Most times Ill just hike, sometimes Ill jog, but I love going here in the morning. All the birds are out flying and chirping. Ive seen 'rare' lizards, plenty of ground squirrels, deer and coyote appear to be pretty constant and extremely docile. They go about there business as long as you go about yours. Last week I seen a mountain Lion and a cub. They were in the part of land you are not allowed to visit since there was a fence up and said "Research Area: Do Not Enter". It was surreal but they acted like the rest, stared, I stared back, and they went up the hill and about there business. Its best to go with someone, its fine alone also but there is alot of ground to cover and you never know what you may encounter. I was alone when i seen that Giant beast...

Great place to hike, I try to go early mornings and it’s never been crowded. There are vernal pools (with water atm), I’ve seen deer, cranes, tarantulas and lots of lizards and bunnies. There are many different plants and flowers as well. So far I’ve done the trails around the pools and the hidden valley trail in the middle of the map. The Hidden Valley was the easiest as far as the path and change in incline, but I find the Vernal Pool trail more interesting and there is just a minor incline on the way back. I have bad feet, knees and back and I am able to handle with no issues! The people working and volunteering at the preserve have always been super kind and informative. Bought a yearly pass for $35. Day use without the pass in $4. Plenty of parking at the 3 different...