Let’s be honest, sometimes the idea of a hike sounds intimidating. You envision crazy elevation gains, technical climbs, and ending up looking like you wrestled a bear (not the good kind of wrestle). There’s a perfect hike out there for everyone, and Mt. Rubidoux Hiking Trail in Riverside, California, is a fantastic option for those who want a scenic walk with amazing views, without the whole “grueling challenge” vibe. We had a fantastic time hiking the Mt. Rubidoux trail and here, I will tell you all about it!
How Long is the Hike up Mt. Rubidoux
The hike up to Mt. Rubidoux is 3.2 miles long and and ideal for a casual outing. While there’s an elevation gain of roughly 800 feet, the trail is paved most of the way, making it manageable for walkers, runners, and even families with strollers. The incline is gradual, so you can conquer the summit at your own pace, stopping to catch your breath and soak in the panoramic views of Riverside and the surrounding areas. Most people complete the hike in 1-2 hours.
Planning Your Mt. Rubidoux Hiking Trail Adventure
Mt. Rubidoux Trail is a great hike for those looking for a scenic and accessible option, and it’s only 52.7 miles away from Los Angeles. It should take about an hour to drive there by car. This is the perfect little hike to start your day with.
Best Times to Hike Mt. Rubidoux
While you can technically hike Mount Rubidoux any time the park is open, there are definitely some times that offer a more enjoyable experience:
- Early Morning: This is my personal favorite. The temperatures are cooler, especially during the summer months, and you’ll likely have the trail (or at least parts of it) to yourself. Plus, catching the sunrise over the city is an incredible sight.
- Weekdays: Weekends tend to be the busiest, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, aim for a weekday hike.
- Spring and Fall: The spring wildflowers add a pop of color to the trail, and the fall foliage in the surrounding mountains is beautiful. Just be aware that these shoulder seasons can also be busier with tourists.
Mt. Rubidoux Hike Parking and Directions
The official trailhead is located at Ryan Bonaminio Park, right next to Mt. Rubidoux. Here’s the good news: there’s a parking lot at the park, but it can fill up fast, especially on weekends. My advice? Get there early, or be prepared for a little street parking hunt.
Mt. Rubidoux Hiking Trail Hours
The park itself is open from sunrise to sunset, which is perfect for early birds who want to catch the sunrise or night owls who prefer a sunset stroll (although night hikes aren’t recommended, as the trail isn’t lit).
Mt. Rubidoux Hiking Trail Logistics
| Distance: 3.2 miles | Time: 1.5 hours | Elevation: 800ft | |||
| Route Type: Loop | Difficulty: Moderate | Rating: 🌟4.6 | |||
| Stroller Friendly ✅ 360 degree Views of Mountains and City ✅ Pet Friendly ✅ | |||||
| Highlights: Paved most of the way, historical landmarks, dog friendly (although minimal shade) | |||||
What to Pack for Mt. Rubidoux Hike
- Snacks – Ultimate Hiking Snack RX Bars
- A long sleeve shirt perfect for sun protection – Lululemon Swiftly or Lululemon Swiftly TShirt
- Sun Hat– Wide Brim Sun Protection Hat
- Sunscreen– SPF 60+ Sunscreen La Roche Posay
- Water Pack– Camelback 2 L Water
- Hiking Shoes– Merrels Edge 3 Shoes
- Hiking Pants– Lightweight Quick Dry Hiking Pants
Mt.Rubidoux Hiking Trail
I tackled the Mt. Rubidoux hike on a crisp Saturday morning in late April. The parking lot was already bustling, but I managed to snag a spot and set off with a backpack full of water, sunscreen, and a healthy dose of excitement.
The first part of the trail is a gentle incline, winding through a neighborhood with friendly smiles and waves from folks watering their gardens.
It felt more like a walk through a charming community than the start of a hike, which I loved. It was quite stunning with everything blooming and many flowers visible along the trail.
There were lots of wild mustard and fiddleback in bloom so you will see lots of bees and ladybugs, as well as bunnies.
As you climb higher, the views started to unfold. The city of Riverside stretched out below, with the Santa Ana Mountains adding a dramatic backdrop. There are plenty of spots to pull over and take photos, and trust me, you’ll want to capture this panorama.
Halfway Point on Mt.Rubidoux Hiking Trail
The halfway point is marked by a fork in the road. One path takes you to the summit with the giant white cross, while the other offers some historical markers and a slightly different perspective.
I opted to go all the way to the top, and let me tell you, the final climb is where you feel the burn a little. But the payoff? Absolutely breathtaking.
At the top, there’s a lot to explore including a stone bridge, a large U.S. flag, an old tower, the cross, a sign explaining the history of the mountain
Reaching The Summit on Mt. Rubidoux Hiking Trail
Standing at the top of Mount Rubidoux, you’re greeted by a 360-degree view that’s simply stunning. The city sprawls beneath you, the mountains rise in the distance, and there’s a certain sense of accomplishment that washes over you.
It’s a reminder that sometimes the best views come after a little effort. Overall, this was a nice short loop trail to the summit of a mountain with a rich history.
Related Reads: The Best Weekend Trip from Denver to Hanging Lake
Things to do in Riverside after Mt.Rubidoux Hike
Now, the hike itself is fantastic, but Mt. Rubidoux offers more than just a scenic climb. We opted to explore the area after our hike as it was only 11 am, by the time we finished our hike.
Here are some cool things to do after you’ve conquered the trail:
Whitewater Preserve (Free!)
We went to Whitewater Preserve after our hike to sit and have a mini-picnic at the preserve. It was the perfect cool down. The preserve is a jewel of a place to appreciate and enjoy. There is ample parking and it is free to visit. The trails are well kept and there is little to no trash. The old trout ponds are really cool to look at and the facilities are top notch.
There are several ways to explore the Whitewater Preserve. If you’re still feeling energetic after your hike, there are a few easy to moderate trails that wind along the river, offering plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and spotting desert wildlife like bighorn sheep and bobcats.
For a more relaxing experience, you can spread out a picnic blanket by the water and enjoy the sound of the flowing river. The preserve also offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing (with a permit), making it a perfect spot for a full day of outdoor adventure.
Very calm lake featured in Whitewater Preserve,bring your sandwiches and snacks, you will want to sit for a while.
California Citrus State Park
After conquering Mount Rubidoux, I decided to extend my adventure with a drive to California Citrus State Park about a 20-minute drive away. This hidden gem is a historic citrus grove showcasing California’s agricultural heritage. Walking through the meticulously maintained rows of orange, grapefruit, and lemon trees was a delightful change of pace and smell. Oh the smell of sweet citrus!
Best Places to Eat after Hiking Mt.Rubidoux
By the time I finished exploring the citrus groves, my stomach was rumbling. Luckily, Riverside has a fantastic selection of restaurants to satisfy any post-hike cravings. Here are a few of my favorites:
- The Salted Pig: This gastropub offers a stylish and inviting atmosphere with a menu featuring inventive takes on classic comfort food. If you’re looking for a hearty burger or a delicious plate of pasta, this is the spot.
- Con Sabor A Sinaloa: Need a caffeine pick-me-up after your hike? Head to Press Coffee Bar for a delicious cup of joe roasted in-house. They also have a selection of pastries and sandwiches perfect for a quick and satisfying bite. Oh and they have churros!
- The Pizza Place: Sometimes after a hike, all you crave is a classic slice. House of Pizza delivers (literally and figuratively) with their delicious New York-style pies.
Bonus Tip: If you’re looking for a more scenic dining experience, check out the restaurants located along the Riverside walkway. You can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the river.
Tips for a Smooth Hike
- Bring water: No matter what time of day you go, hydration is key. There are no water fountains on the trail, so pack enough water for the duration of your hike.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat: California sun can be intense, especially during the midday hours. Protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke with sunscreen and a hat.
- Wear comfortable shoes: This might seem obvious, but you’ll be glad you have proper footwear for the climb. Sneakers or hiking boots are ideal.
- Leash your dog: Mount Rubidoux is dog-friendly, but all pups must be leashed for the safety of everyone (including your furry friend). P.S Pick up your dog’s poop.
- Leave no trace: Pack out all your trash and leave the trail as beautiful as you found it.
Conclusion
Mount Rubidoux is a fantastic hike for anyone looking for a scenic and accessible option. It’s perfect for a family outing, a solo adventure with some nature therapy, or a quick workout with a view. So lace up your shoes, grab your water bottle, and get ready to conquer this little mountain in the heart of Riverside
