Mount Rubidoux Park Riverside
Iconic Riverside landmark offering panoramic city views via accessible paved trails, perfect for hikes and family outings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Mount Rubidoux Park Riverside
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Riverside landmark offering panoramic city views via accessible paved trails, perfect for hikes and family outings.
"Easy hike with beautiful views of the city, a great workout and a pleasant walk!"
🎯 Beat Weekend Crowds
Arrive before 6 AM on weekends for parking and fewer people.
👟 Paved vs. Dirt Trails
The main trail is paved, but off-trail paths are dirt and rocks. Wear appropriate footwear!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Riverside and the surrounding Inland Empire. Perfect for photos!
+1
Peace Tower
Summit
A prominent landmark at the summit, offering a great photo opportunity and a symbol of the park's history.
Historic Easter Sunrise Service Site
Summit
Experience the site of the oldest outdoor non-denominational Easter Sunrise Service in the U.S.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Parking & Access
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat Weekend Crowds
Arrive before 6 AM on weekends for parking and fewer people.
👟 Paved vs. Dirt Trails
The main trail is paved, but off-trail paths are dirt and rocks. Wear appropriate footwear!
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Much of the trail is exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Dogs are welcome on leash! Great for a run with your furry friend.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat Weekend Crowds
Arrive before 6 AM on weekends for parking and fewer people.
👟 Paved vs. Dirt Trails
The main trail is paved, but off-trail paths are dirt and rocks. Wear appropriate footwear!
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Much of the trail is exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Dogs are welcome on leash! Great for a run with your furry friend.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning panoramic views perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Rubidoux Park for its stunning city views and accessible paved trails, making it a great spot for a moderate hike and family outings. While many enjoy the workout and scenery, some find the park can get quite crowded, especially on weekend mornings, and the lack of shade means it can get hot.
"I love this place. It's an easy hike with beautiful views of the city. If you stay on the trail it is paved but if you go off the trail, it's dirt and rocks. Your mostly in the sun on this trail depending on what side of the mountain your on. There is alot of things to look at on the trail and walking it goes rather quickly. Parking is across the street at a park.. so before you reach the entrance there will be a prewalk to the trail."
Jennifer
"Great place. Very pleasant walk in both trails to the peak !"
Alberto Lee
"It was an amazing experience. The hike felt short but the beautiful thing about this hike is that you can create or find a way to loop the hike. I think we did over 2+ miles on the hike even though it was about 1.5 miles from start to top. Definitely recommend this hike. Also, this hike is not secluded so there will be many people here. I love a nice quiet hiking trail where you can hear nature doing it's thing. This is not that lol."
Bro. Alejandro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Rubidoux Park is located west of downtown Riverside, California. Parking is available at Ryan Bonaminio Park (5000 Tequesquite Ave, Riverside, CA 92501) before heading to the trailhead.
Yes, parking is available at Ryan Bonaminio Park across the street from the park entrance. It can fill up quickly on weekends.
While specific bus routes may vary, checking local Riverside transit schedules is recommended. Many visitors opt to drive due to the park's location.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Riverside. Follow signs for Mount Rubidoux Memorial Park or Ryan Bonaminio Park.
The main access point is from Ryan Bonaminio Park, leading to the paved trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mount Rubidoux Park is a free public park. There are no admission fees to enter or hike the trails.
The park is open for day use only, from dusk until dawn.
No advance booking is required as it's a public park. However, arriving early on busy days is advised.
The park is generally open to the public. Dogs must be on a leash.
Weekdays and very early weekend mornings (before 6 AM) are recommended to avoid crowds.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main trail is paved with a moderate incline, making it an easy to moderate hike. Off-trail paths are dirt and rocks.
The loop can vary depending on the route taken, but it's generally around 2.4 to 3.5 miles. Some visitors create longer loops.
The trails are mostly exposed with limited shade, so sun protection is highly recommended.
At the summit, you'll find the Peace Tower and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Riverside.
Yes, the paved main trail is generally considered kid and stroller-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the best panoramic views. The Peace Tower is also a popular subject.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting conditions for photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the City of Riverside Parks and Recreation for current rules.
The historic nature of the park, including the Peace Tower and the Easter Sunrise Service site, provides unique photographic opportunities.
Expect cityscapes, rolling hills, and natural landscapes, especially during wildflower season.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider making it a game to spot different landmarks from the top, or have a picnic at the base in Ryan Bonaminio Park. The relatively short distance to the summit means kids can complete the hike without getting too tired, and the rewarding views at the top are a great motivator.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be sure to bring water for both yourself and your dog, and always clean up after your pet. The open nature of the park means your dog will have plenty of space to explore, and the cooler temperatures in the early morning or late afternoon are ideal for dog walking.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
+1If you prefer a more intense experience, exploring the off-trail dirt and rock paths can add an element of trail running or hiking that engages different muscle groups. The consistent elevation gain makes it a reliable spot for consistent training.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trails of Mount Rubidoux
+1For those seeking a more rugged experience, off-trail paths are also available. These routes are primarily dirt and rock, offering a more natural hiking feel. While these paths can be more challenging and less predictable, they provide a different perspective of the mountain's terrain. It's important to wear appropriate footwear if you plan to explore these areas, as they can be uneven.
Many visitors enjoy creating custom loops by combining different sections of the trail network. This allows for a varied hiking experience and can extend the distance for those looking for a longer trek. The park's design encourages exploration, and you can often find new ways to navigate the mountain.
History and Significance
The park also features the Word Peace Tower, a prominent structure at the summit that serves as a focal point and a popular photo opportunity. This tower, along with the bridge at the top, adds to the historical and visual appeal of the park. The trails themselves have been a part of the community for generations, offering a place for recreation and reflection.
Beyond its historical events, Mount Rubidoux is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a accessible natural escape within the city. Its role as a gathering place for community events and its scenic beauty make it a cherished part of Riverside.
Views and Wildlife
+1The park is also a habitat for various local wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and the occasional wildflower bloom, especially in the spring. While the main trails are paved, the surrounding natural environment provides opportunities for wildlife observation.
Many visitors describe the experience as both a good workout and a visually rewarding one. The combination of physical activity and the stunning scenery makes Mount Rubidoux a popular destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit