San Diego Reader

• Park | Outdoor Space | Ramona

Barnett Ranch Preserve

• 1500 Deviney Lane/San Vicente Road, Ramona, CA 92065 | Directions
• 619-838-7215

Barnett Ranch spreads across about 1000 acres of gently rolling grasslands and sage- and chaparral-covered slopes. The well-marked entrance and equestrian staging area for the preserve is located at the intersection of San Vicente Road and Deviney Lane (mile 14.4, according to the green mileage markers posted on San Vicente Road).

From the Barnett Ranch staging area, you can choose to hike (or run, bike, or ride a horse) on two out-and-back routes: the Rattlesnake Trail and the Valley View Trail, 2.5 miles round trip on either one. The Rattlesnake Trail is terrific — once you get beyond the initial half mile, which is simply a dirt path right alongside a rural driveway. You curve into a sensuously rounded vale, cross a freshwater marsh with verdant grasses and swaying cattails (and a nearby picnic table), and climb a bit more to a second picnic table next to some oaks singed by the 2003 Cedar Fire. [+more]