For those of us that live in Riverside, CA, Mt Rubidoux is one of those great places to go out, get a workout and expeirence nature. It is the perfect hike for just about anyone as it is a short and mostly easy walk to the summit of the mountain and it has a great view to reward you at the top.On the way there are many different Riverside historical landmarks such as the Peace Bridge, American Flag and then eventually the cross on the top. I myself have walked Mt Rubidoux many time and love the chance to get up to the summit and just take in the city.
History
A little history on the mountain is as follows:
“In 1906 Frank Miller, owner of the Mission Inn, along with Henry E. Huntington and Charles M. Loring, formed the Huntington Park Association and purchased the property with the intent to build a road to the summit and develop the mountain as a park to benefit the city of Riverside. Originally the park was named Huntington Park, but the name was changed to the Frank A. Miller Mount Rubidoux Memorial Park after the heirs of Frank Miller donated the property to the city in 1955. On December 13, 1925 the Testimonial Peace Tower, devoted to peace, was dedicated to Miller. The bridge is a replica of a noted bridge in Alcántara, Spain. Initial improvements, including the road, were completed in February 1907. The first memorial marker on the mountain, the cross and tablet at the summit honoring Father Junipero Serra, was dedicated on April 26, 1907.”
Source: The Old Franciscan Missions Of California by George Wharton James via Project Gutenberg
The above picture is one of my favorites as it shows how much history this mountain has invested in it and I hope to finally experience an Easter Sunrise service up there next year as it is the longest running outdoor one in the United States.
Where to Park
The best thing about Mt Rubidoux is that there are many different trails up the mountain. No matter which way you approach it, there is sure to be a path. That being said you need to pay careful attention to parking when you are at the mountain. Recent laws in the city have set up specific parking areas and sides of the street that are resident parking only so make sure to carefully read the signs when looking for somewhere to park.
Since they have now completed the Ryan Bonaminio park I believe that is the best place to park for the mountain. The address for this park is 5000 Tequesquite Ave, Riverside, CA 92506 and it has a lot of parking spaces. It has easy access to the mountain here as well as you just head up the street about a quarter mile from the parking lot and you will reach the start of the trail. Always remember to read the signs though as it can change without warning.
The Trail
The trail itself if really easy to find as it is a paved road all the way up, there are a couple of them so you have to choose which length you are in the mood for. There is a long way that is around two miles, a shorter way that is around one mile and a backside way that is less then a mile but pretty much straight up the whole time. If it is your first time I would suggest taking the long way as you will get to take in all the sites and see the famous Peace Bridge that was mentioned above. It is a beautiful hike that takes you around many different plants and flowers, huge boulders that you can climb and even the historical markers on the mountain. Plan for about an hour to an hour and a half to complete the less then 3 miles as you will want to spend some time up on the summit.
The Peace Bridge
The Peace Bridge was built in 1925 by the city of Riverside to commemorate the work that was done by Frank Miller and his family while they were away on travel. It was dedicated when they returned and a plaque was created that said:
“Peace with Justice for all men. Anno Domini 1925. This bridge
was built by neighbors and friends of Frank Augustus Miller in
recognition of his constant labor in the promotion of civic beauty,
community righteousness and world peace.” *
It is a beautiful bridge that adds to the uniqueness of this trail. Great for photo shoots or to just admire while making your way to the top.
The Summit
On the summit of Mt Rubidoux you will find many different sites to explore. I have never been up there when there was not at least 10 to 15 other people hanging out on top. The cross itself that is the highlight of the mountain and is so big it can be seen from the freeway, it alone is worth checking out and climbing up to. As is the bridge that is near the summit and the steps to the flag.
Even had a plane fly by me once
Downtown Riverside
This is an especially beautiful area to watch the sunset at as you can get a great view if it is clear. To head down from the mountain, simply go back the way that you came.
This mountain is a great experience for both the first time hiker and anyone looking to show a friend a great local spot in the Inland Empire. I have done it many times and I can honestly say each time I see something I haven’t before. Make sure you take the time to head up Mt Rubidoux if you are near the area, as it will be something you will likely love and want to do again.
If you have been up there or have additional information on the mountain make sure to leave it in the comments and get directions below.
*Information taken from the Mission Inn Website