Hike the Santa Margarita River Trail near Fallbrook

ABOUT THE HIKE: This 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 and birds, this beautiful river offers evidence of its Native American history. Today the area trails are protected by the Wildlands Conservancy, the largest nonprofit preserve system in California. The trail we are taking was voted #1 in San Diego County by San Diego Magazine. Our out/back route will be 5.7 miles round trip with approximately 600 feet of elevation gain. The trail follows the river course to a hidden beach and picnic tables at the hike mid point. Total hike time will be roughly three hours. The trail is dog friendly.

ABOUT THE PICNIC: At this mid point rest stop, we will enjoy a potluck picnic. Please bring snacks to share and BYOBeverage. There is a portable restroom at the picnic area.

You will find a video on this trail by The Hiking Guy here:
https://hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/hiking-san-diego/santa-margarita-river-trail/

DRIVING DIRECTIONS: The GPS address for the Santa Margarita River trailhead is 4251 River Edge Road, Fallbrook, CA 92028. The gate at trailhead parking area opens at 8 AM. Parking is limited for this popular trail, so please arrive early for our 8:30 meetup. You will be taking Interstate 5 south from OC.... Hwy 76 east to Bonsal.... north on Mission Road through Fallbrook.... north on De Luz Road/Sandia Creek Drive to the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve. Total drive time will be approximately 90 minutes. Portable restrooms are available at the trailhead.

DISCLAIMER: Group organizer and assistant organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.