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Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 846 Google reviews · Running trail in Fallbrook, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 42 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic trail along the Santa Margarita River featuring shade trees, rapids and free parking.
What runners say about Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve
“This trail is well maintained and provides a mostly shady, easy (almost too easy) hike that's suitable for dogs and kids as well.”
“If you're looking for a trail that blends serenity, adventure, and stunning views, Santa Margarita River Trail is a must-visit!”
“Unlike most dry, exposed trails in the area, this one follows a river and has a surprising amount of shade, which makes it much more enjoyable, especially on warmer days.”
“The sound of rushing water accompanies hikers along the path, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels like an escape from the hustle of everyday life.”
**A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers!** My husband and I just visited the Santa Margarita River Trail which offers an unforgettable hiking experience, surrounded by lush green jungle trees, a flowing river, and breathtaking mountain views.
This was a cool trail to find. Never knew it was here and its only about an hr from our house. The parking lot is large but was pretty full when we showed up. We did come on a Sunday with great weather.
The Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve, a property owned by The Wildlands Conservancy, is a 1,384-acre nature preserve and hiking, cycling, and horse-riding area. The park has many long trails, most of which follow along the Santa Margarita River.
Beautiful trail. there is lots of shade and a few benches to sit down and take in the beautiful nature around you ! this trail can get packed so make sure you go early . i took my 2 small dogs and we had a blast hiking . the dogs loved going in and out of the river and swimming. This is one of my favorite hikes.
Trail conditions & character
“Trail maps available at the parking area kiosk and well-placed signs throughout the preserve will prevent you from getting lost.”
“Beautiful nature preserve not far from Temecula (only about 25 minute drive) with multiple hiking trails to choose from.”
“Unlike most dry, exposed trails in the area, this one follows a river and has a surprising amount of shade, which makes it much more enjoyable, especially on warmer days.”
“The only restrooms are porta-potties at the Santa Margarita County Preserve.”
“This trail is well maintained and provides a mostly shady, easy (almost too easy) hike that's suitable for dogs and kids as well.”
“The sound of rushing water accompanies hikers along the path, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels like an escape from the hustle of everyday life.”
“The trail itself is mostly easy to moderate, with a mix of dirt paths and some rocky sections.”
“The trail is nice and easy with no real elevation gain.”
“Crossing the river, which I did not do, may be on another level.”
Plan your run at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance42 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitewildlandsconservancy.org
- Phone(909) 372-0138
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–4:30 PM |
Running trails near Fallbrook
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Santa Margarita County Preserve
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Popular nature preserve with trails for hiking, wading and mountain biking.
Sykes Ranch Park
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Luiseño Park
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Oceanside Bike Trail
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