Santa Rosa Hills (Riverside County)

The Santa Rosa Hills are a low mountain range located in Riverside County, California, situated primarily southwest of Temecula and Murrieta. The hills are part of the Peninsular Ranges Province and characterized by chaparral and oak woodlands vegetation. Elevations in the Santa Rosa Hills generally range from several hundred feet to just over 3,000 feet.

The area is known for its rugged terrain and is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Several trails wind through the hills, offering views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, a larger protected area, abuts the Santa Rosa Hills and contributes significantly to the biodiversity of the region. The Santa Rosa Hills play a role in local watersheds, contributing to runoff and groundwater recharge in the area. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.