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Trails and Nature

Dorland is nestled in the picturesque natural setting of over 300 acres along a northern ridge of the Palomar Mountain range, offering panoramic views of the Temecula Valley in Riverside County, California. In the 1930s, Ellen and Robert Dorland settled on this land, which would later gain national recognition as the Dorland Preserve.

In partnership with The Nature Conservancy, Dorland is dedicated to preserving the ecology of the undeveloped portion of its land. The team at Dorland, along with volunteers, work tirelessly to maintain trails and a tranquil lake on the property, as well as to safeguard native flora and fauna while eliminating non-native species.

The elevation at Dorland stands at approximately 1,800 feet.


Beauty ~ Tranquility ~ Creativity


​Walking Trails

Indulge in a serene exploration of the winding walking trails that crisscross the property, offering residents a chance to escape into the untouched beauty of Dorland's protected natural landscape. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness, and let the tranquility of this preserved land rejuvenate your spirit.​

Far Springs

The Far Springs Trail heads to the east from Dorland for .7 miles and ends at a small canyon complete with a seasonal spring shaded with sycamore and oak trees. 

Bee Canyon

The Bee Canyon Trail skirts the valley below for  .5 miles and then has an off shoot which joins the Dorland Mountain Trail. 

Dorland Mountain

It’s been reported that one can see the ocean if one reaches the top of the Dorland Mountain Trail, about a mile from the trailhead. 


Lake Ticañu

Easily accessed, a gentle trail leads to Lake Ticañu about 200 feet up from the Community Arts Center.

Water lilies grace the surface of the small lake and a nearby rustic rowboat completes this picturesque setting.




Fauna

Dorland is a habitat to a diverse range of animals. Spend a moment in silence, and you'll likely spot some of the local "residents" roaming around.


Local "Residents"

There is a variety of avian and ground creatures to be found at Dorland. Dragonflies, birds, and frogs, red foxes, bobcats, and mule deer are just a small sampling of the animals that call Dorland Mountain home. Listen for the gentle tapping of an acorn woodpecker or the scuttling underbrush of rabbits and squirrels.

Steven Forry 

Reflecting Pond

Solitary and peaceful – a space for quiet reflection.

Flora 


 Dorland is rich with flora of all types. Engelmann and Coast Live Oaks shade the land and trails. Wildflowers, such as Scarlet Monkey flowers, deep red Toyan, yellow Brittlebrush, and Bush Snapdragons, bloom throughout the 300 acres of protected land.

Sunrise Point

Experience the serene beauty of the eastern horizon from the heights of Dorland's Sunrise Point. Stroll through the labyrinth as dawn breaks in the east. 

The Views


Whether looking west, north or east, the sheer vastness of the “long” views available from the height of Dorland highlight the immensity of the visual spreads before you.  If “Setting” is a character in a novel, this place, in time, suggests something as large as eternity, with the span of a human lifetime seeming small indeed.  Come feel, and belong to a land that is greater than yourself.

Temecula Valley Wine Country 

Just a short drive from Dorland, you can explore the nearby wineries for a delightful dinner or take a guided tour. Don't forget to reserve a hot air balloon ride ahead of your visit!