Equestrian Trail Opens In Temecula Valley Wine Country

TEMECULA, CA —There's a lot to love about the Temecula Valley, from its many wineries to the breathtaking horseback riding trails that weave between them. Now, officials say a newly opened equestrian trail will help area riders safely avoid one of the hazards facing them: De Portola Road.

Nearly 60 area residents and horse-lovers showed up Saturday to celebrate the grand opening of the Temecula Valley Equestrian Trail in wine country.

Centered around De Portola Road, the equestrian trail runs from Valle de Los Caballos to Oak Mountain Road. It adds another opportunity for area horsemen and women to experience the outdoors on horseback.

A connection between riders and the water district is essential in preserving the new trail and existing equestrian trails, the Rancho California Horsemen Association said.

"Rancho California's Horsemen Association, along with Temecula Valley Rural Lifestyles, has led the charge to secure an important, safer trail easement with the Rancho California Water District," the horseman's association shared over Facebook.

Most importantly, for all concerned, the [new] trail gets horses away from the busy De Portola Road.

"Riding along De Portola Road is dangerous," a spokesperson for Temecula Equine-Wine Riders said on Facebook. "This trail segment diverts riders from nearby vineyards to a safe horse crossing at the Renzoni, Fazeli, Sommerset Winery crossing or over to Galway Downs and the Vines to Valley trails."

It took long-term teamwork to negotiate with the water district [in getting the trail built,] they said.

"Our club members helped conduct ride alongs, fundraise and lend support when needed."

The equestrian community conducted a "rope pulling" for the trail instead of a traditional "ribbon cutting."

Then, those gathered made the inaugural ride.

Many hours of teamwork and brainpower went into planning the trail, but overall, Rancho Water and the area horse community's ongoing relationship was key, according to Kimberly Wall, the water district's spokesperson.

"Rancho Water is proud to partner with the community to offer its facilities in meaningful ways that benefit the public," Wall said. "This trail is a prime example of how local groups have come together to create a safe, useful amenity for our equestrian community."

The trail is for horses only: No hikers, dogs, bicycles, or vehicles are allowed, according to signage.

Guest speakers at the grand opening included Sherry Turner, President of the Rancho California Horsemen's Association; Gil Pankonin, president of the Temecula Valley Rurlal Lifestyles, Inc.; Carol Lee Gonzales-Brady, board president and 2022 Rose Parade "leading lady," Rancho California Water District's Robert Grantham, general manager, Rancho California Water District.

"It truly takes a village of dedicated, civic-minded leaders to accomplish goals such as these," the Horseman's Association said. "Thank you to everyone who served on the special committees, Board of Directors and founders of RCHA/TVRL/RCWD/TEWR and TVHA for your teamwork!"