The Santa Margarita River Trail hike is a true gem. The hike follows the shady shores of the Santa Margarita River, Southern California's last undiverted, free-flowing river, home to over a hundred species of animals. The peaceful river banks also hold glimpses into the area's past, including Native American artifacts and relics of a railroad that once connected San Diego to the outside world. Today the Santa Margarita River Trail is protected and well-marked thanks to the non-profit Wildlands Conservancy. It's a beautiful trail that's easy, with a flat 3 mile option or a longer 5.7 hike to a hidden beach.
In this Guide:
Santa Margarita River Trail Video and Turn by Turn Directions
The Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve is open from 8am-5pm every day. Outside of those hours the gates are closed and you cannot park on the street and walk in early. This lets the wildlife have the space they need when they are most active.
There are porta-potties at the trailhead.
Gear for the Hike
This is a pretty easy and mellow hike. Make sure you bring enough water (1-2L); it can still be hot with the shade. Bugs can be a problem and insect repellant is helpful. Light hiking gear or fitness-wear work well here.
Gear That I Love Right Now
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
The trail and preserve is run by the Wildlands Conservancy, the largest nonprofit nature preserve system in California. While there are some twists and turns, the trails are well-marked and easy to follow.
There's no swimming in the river; give the wildlife its space and stay on the trail.
Hike Brief
The Santa Margarita River is one of the only (or maybe the only) river in Southern California that remains un-diverted, un-channeled, and un-dammed. The Preserve forms a vital habitat link between the Santa Ana Mountains and inland San Diego County.
The protected status of the land has made it a haven for wildlife. Keep your eyes open for hawks, mule deer, or some of the other 100+ animals that call the area home.
This fertile area was originally home to the native Luiseño peoples, and you can still see some stone mortars where they ground acorns into flour.
In 1882 the California Southern Railroad ran through here, connecting San Diego with Temecula, Barstow and the transcontinental railway. Floods destroyed the line and it was abandoned in favor of the coastal route that is used today by Amtrak.
For 80 years the local power company tried to dam the river for a hydroelectric project. They abandoned the effort and the non-profit Wildlands Conservancy purchased the land in 2018.
Santa Margarita River Hike Directions
If you want to do the shorter 3 mile flat hike, just go left at the last junction, down to the water, enjoy, and then turn around and hike back the way you came.
Need More Info?
Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.
When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.