Magical hiking places are like shapeshifters. You visit one day and find it a pleasant diversion. Then, because you have some time, you venture in again and find yourself unexpectedly spellbound. Light filtered through trees reflects off a ripple in the stream and gives you pause. A bird song begins before a breeze picks up. Ah, you think, this is the place. 

Santa Margarita Preserve Trail has become an alluring setting for my family, and we are always eager to go back again.

This is an easy hike that is only a bit further than a mile long. Feel free to bring along young children and dogs on a leash.
Dog Hiking
Daniel Davis/AllTrails
You might be able to finish the entire trek in less than half an hour. We seem to visit for a few hours.
The trail shifts from one way of being into another as you stroll.
Joshua Gavarrette/AllTrails
There is something about a curve going around a soft hill that hints that more is to come.
There is plenty of water in the area, and the foliage in this spot is lush.
Very Green Plants and Trees
Mike Schacht/AllTrails
A nice bench on a trail like this is perfect for resting, drawing, or eating a quick snack.
Tony Rappa/AllTrails

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You’ll probably see people riding horses as you go. The Santa Monica River Loop, which is about five miles long, connects with this trail.
People on Horseback
Carri Gunn/AllTrails
You can read about that hike in the article "The Magical River Walk In Southern California That Will Transport You To Another World."
It’s so relaxing to linger at the various pools along the way.
Shallow Pool surrounded by rocks
Joshua Gavarrette/AllTrails
You’ll find little paths that jut through the woods off the trail to the creek. It’s quite the adventure for the little ones.
The sounds of the water and the warmth of the boulder inspire this young scientist to linger and investigate.
Child exploring
Jennifer Leckliter/AllTrails
A peaceful spot allows a view of the area's agricultural importance.
Joshua Gavarrette/AllTrails
The large mountain in the back is growing either grapes or avocado.
If you find a nice place to sit for a while, you will see and hear all sorts of things. You might decide to spend most of your time in one small location along the trail.
Bill Hall/OIYS
It’s fun to pay attention to a small area for a while and notice all the different animals and insects that go by.

We look forward to eating at La Favorita Ranch Market after our hikes on the Santa Margarita Preserve Trail. We’ve done this every time and can’t imagine skipping it. I’m usually dreaming of tacos as I start the car. Give it a shot; there is a small walk-up window and comfortable patio to eat outside the store.

You will be glad you found the time to enjoy this special hike. Let us know if you do!

 

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Featured Addresses
Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve, 4251 River Edge Rd, Fallbrook, CA 92028, USA
La Favorita Ranch Market, Temecula, CA 92590, USA