Wild Side of the Vines

If you’re looking for a walk on the wild side without getting too far from wines, head to Temecula Creek Trail Park for a 2-mile (round-trip) jaunt with an option for further exploration. After parking at the small paved lot, head west on the well-maintained dirt path. With fancy houses towering on the cliffs, there’s a striking contrast of manicured green lawns and unkempt riparian habitat beyond.

The fall colors start shimmering in the light as you pass sycamores and aspens clashing with the perennially green oaks and willows along the dry creek bed. After half a mile, you’ll reach the road, your turnaround point. Head back the way you came and keep going east on the trail, past the parking lot. You’ll reach an opening to head into the wide riverbed. Opt for an adventure here and go into the vast open space that’s a haven for bird-watching.

Look for warblers and listen for wrentits, while admiring the steep flanking cliffs and endless clusters of chaparral and riparian regulars like buckwheat, sedges, and rushes. (Before heading back to your car, take a quick trip up the hill path for excellent views of the creek park and Temecula Valley.) This is especially magical at sunset … perhaps with a glass of wine.

To get to Temecula Creek Trail Park, take the I-15 to CA-79 east. Continue east on CA-79 for 4 miles, turning right at Butterfield Stage Lane. After the middle school, take a left on Channel St. followed by the second left onto a small road identified by a sign for the park. Dog-friendly!