A Peaceful Morning on the Copper Creek Trail

Wrentit

Last weekend, we set out for a hike on the Copper Creek Trail in San Marcos, CA. This easy 3.1-mile trail winds through rolling hills and a mix of riparian and chaparral habitats, offering a quiet escape into nature. The weather was mostly sunny, with just a few wispy clouds in the sky. It was the perfect day for a relaxed morning walk.

Overlook

A Friendly Phoebe to Start

Say’s Phoebe

Right at the trailhead, we spotted a Say’s Phoebe perched on a fence post, its soft brown and buff-colored plumage blending perfectly with the dry grass. It gave a few sharp calls before darting out to catch an insect mid-air.

Trail View

Seeing this energetic little bird felt like a great way to start the hike.

Sticky baccharis

Towhees and Bushtits Along the Path

California Towhee

As we walked along the trail, a few California Towhees rustled in the underbrush, occasionally hopping onto the path ahead of us. Their muted brown tones made them easy to overlook, but their constant movement kept them in sight. In a nearby shrub, a group of Bushtits flitted through the branches, chattering excitedly as they searched for food.

Bushtit

A Sparrow’s Morning Song

Song Sparrow

Further down the trail, we heard the sweet melody of a Song Sparrow singing from a low tree. It stayed hidden among the branches, but its voice carried through the air, adding a peaceful soundtrack to our walk. The sound of birdsong always makes a hike feel even more special.

Trail View

A Surprise at the Creek

Mallard

As we approached a small stretch of water, we were delighted to see a pair of Mallards paddling along the shallow creek.

Trail View

They glided effortlessly through the water, occasionally dipping their heads beneath the surface. It was a simple yet beautiful sight.

Woolyleaf ceanothus

A Flash of Yellow

Orange-crowned Warbler

While walking through a shaded section of the trail, we noticed a quick flash of yellow darting through the trees. After a moment of searching, we spotted an Orange-crowned Warbler hopping along a branch, flicking its tail as it moved.

Trail View

These tiny songbirds are always a fun find, especially when they pause long enough for a good look.

Trail View

Hummingbird Energy

Anna’s Hummingbird

A little farther up the trail, an Anna’s Hummingbird zipped by, pausing briefly at a flowering plant before continuing on its way. Their speed and agility never fail to impress, and this one seemed especially energetic as it darted between blossoms.

Fuchsia-flower gooseberry

Two Phoebes and a Secretive Wrentit

Black Phoebe

Near the end of the hike, we came across a Black Phoebe, perched on a rock near the water. Unlike the Say’s Phoebe we saw earlier, this one had striking black-and-white plumage, standing out against the earthy tones of the trail.

Trail View

Just as we were about to wrap up our walk, we heard the distinct call of a Wrentit from deep in the brush. These secretive birds are more often heard than seen, so it was a nice way to end the morning.

Wrentit

A Refreshing Local Hike

Trail View

The Copper Creek Trail turned out to be a great choice for a peaceful weekend hike. With its gentle terrain, beautiful scenery, and lively bird activity, it offered the perfect mix of relaxation and discovery. We left feeling refreshed and excited to return in the future to see what other wildlife might be waiting along the trail.

Cassie