GPS: 33° 32.603′, -117° 16.228′)

Rating: Moderate (dirt trail, some hills)

The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, located at the southern end of the Santa Ana Mountains in southwest Riverside County near the city of Murrieta, is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and ecosystems of the area. Consisting of 9,000 acres, the Reserve protects unique ecosystems such as Engelmann oak woodlands, riparian wetlands, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, bunchgrass prairie, and vernal pools as well as more than 200 species of native birds and 49 endangered, threatened or rare animal and plant species, including mule deer, mountain lions, badgers, bobcats, western pond turtles, white-tailed kites and fairy shrimp. Of the two species of fairy shrimp that live in the seasonal vernal pools on the Reserve, one is found only here and nowhere else on Earth! (Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve | Rivcoparks)  The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve in California charges day use fees of $4 for adults and $3 for children ages 2–12.

Directions:

Allow 45 minutes from Escondido. Travel north on I-15 through Temecula to Clinton Keith Rd. Exit Clinton Keith to the right, then turn left and travel west on Clinton Keith for about 4 miles to the Reserve Visitor Center on your left.  We will meet here and bird briefly around the center, then carpool to the vernal pools, and walk to the historic adobe Ranch House.

Photos: Santa Rosa Plateau