May 5, 2026
TO: City Council
REQUESTED BY: Robert Johnson, City Manager
APPROVED BY: Robert A. Johnson, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution Support of Preserving and Conserving the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 4117, in support of Preserving and Conserving the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail.
DISCUSSION:
The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail is a significant historical corridor that traces the route of the 1775–1776 expedition led by Juan Bautista de Anza, contributing to the early settlement and development of California. Within the San Jacinto Valley, a segment of the trail located in the southeastern Hemet area along Bautista Road, from Fairview Avenue through the canyon into Anza, remains largely unprotected for preservation and conservation.
This approximately 12-mile portion of the trail lies within a historically significant corridor and presents an opportunity to preserve a landscape reflective of the original expedition experience more than 250 years ago. The area is considered one of the more intact and undeveloped segments of the broader trail system, offering potential for future planning consistent with a nonmotorized recreational corridor.
Preservation of this segment is aligned with broader efforts supported by the National Park Service and the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District, which emphasize recognition, conservation, and partnership in maintaining the historical and cultural integrity of the trail.
Enhancing and preserving this portion of the trail may provide a range of community benefits, including expanded opportunities for hiking, biking, and equestrian use. In addition to recreational value, trail preservation may contribute to increased regional visitation, supporting local economic activity and tourism within the San Jacinto Valley.
The trail also represents an important connection to the region’s broader historical and cultural resources, including local museums, historical sites, and longstanding community traditions.
Preservation efforts aim to promote awareness and appreciation of the area’s heritage while supporting long-term community identity and regional collaboration.
Overall, preservation and conservation of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail within the San Jacinto Valley is intended to support historical recognition, recreational opportunities, and regional partnerships, with potential benefits for both current residents and future generations.
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 4117 in support of preserving and conserving the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact to adopting Resolution No. 4117 in support of preserving and conserving the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution 4117 Support of Preserving and Conserving the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Foundation Document