A Beautiful Morning at Ramona Grasslands

Lark Sparrow

Last weekend, we set out for a hike at the Ramona Grasslands Preserve Trail in Ramona, California. The 3.3-mile loop is easy and inviting, and the day’s weather added a special touch — cloudy skies with the sun peeking through now and then.

Trail View

It felt like a perfect morning to be outside, enjoying the peaceful open space and the quiet beauty of the grasslands.

Overlook

A Pond Full of Life

Mallard

Not far from the trailhead, we came across a small pond that was alive with activity. A group of Mallards floated calmly on the water, their green heads shining whenever a bit of sunlight broke through the clouds.

Trail View

Nearby, an American Coot paddled along, looking perfectly at home among the reeds.

American Coot

Songs Along the Trail

Song Sparrow

As we continued walking, we heard the sweet notes of a Song Sparrow coming from the bushes. Its cheerful tune carried across the open fields, creating a lovely backdrop for our hike. A little farther ahead, a Killdeer darted across the path, its call sharp and distinctive.

Killdeer

Woodpeckers and Meadows

Acorn Woodpecker

The trail led us past some old oak trees, where we spotted a few Acorn Woodpeckers busily hopping around the branches. Their bright faces and lively chatter added a playful energy to the otherwise quiet landscape.

Overlook

Just beyond the trees, a Western Meadowlark sang from a grassy patch, its clear and beautiful song standing out against the muted colors of the grasslands.

Western Meadowlark

Sparrows and Bluebirds

Lark Sparrow

It seemed like sparrows were everywhere that morning. We saw a few Lark Sparrows perched on fence posts, and a Savannah Sparrow flashed by with its distinctive yellow eyebrow.

Savannah Sparrow

To top it off, a couple of Western Bluebirds added brilliant splashes of blue and orange as they flitted between the trees and the open fields.

Western Bluebird

A Glimpse of a Horned Lark

Horned Lark

One of the quieter highlights of the hike was spotting a Horned Lark on the ground, blending in so well with their surroundings that we almost missed it. Its subtle colors and little feather "horns" made it a treat to watch as it foraged along the trail.

Overlook

Soaring Hawks Above

Red-tailed Hawk

Looking up, we caught sight of a few Red-tailed Hawks gliding effortlessly in the sky above us. They circled slowly, taking advantage of the warm air currents. Watching them float against the patchy clouds was a calming and impressive sight that made us pause for a few moments.

Overlook

Songs of the Lazuli Bunting

Lazuli Bunting

Near the end of the hike, we were treated to the cheerful song of a Lazuli Bunting. We caught a glimpse of its vibrant blue plumage as it sang from a shrub near the trail.

Trail View

A Spotted Towhee also popped into view, its bright red eye catching the light as it rustled in the underbrush.

Spotted Towhee

A Quiet, Joyful Walk

Overlook

Our hike at Ramona Grasslands Preserve was a peaceful and refreshing way to spend the morning. The mix of clouds and sun made the landscape feel dynamic, and the variety of birds kept us smiling from start to finish.

Wild geranium

It was a wonderful reminder of how much beauty and life can be found just a short drive from home.

Desert Cottontail