Santa Ana River Trail: Mount Rubidoux Loop

Parking is available at the base of Mount Rubidoux Park, which is easily accessible from downtown Riverside. There are several parking lots around the park entrance, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Mount Rubidoux Loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

The best time to cycle this route is during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to May). During these times, the weather is more pleasant, and you might even catch sight of snow-capped mountains in the distance. Spring also brings abundant wildflowers. Summers can be very hot, so if cycling then, it's best to go early in the morning.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Mount Rubidoux Loop or Mount Rubidoux Park. It is free and open to the public.

Yes, there are two main paved routes to the top of Mount Rubidoux. One is a longer, more gradual incline, while the other is shorter and steeper. For touring cyclists, the longer, flatter option is generally more manageable and enjoyable, offering a consistent but less strenuous climb. The shorter, steeper path presents a more moderate challenge.

The Mount Rubidoux Loop is approximately 13.6 kilometers (8.5 miles) long. For a touring cyclist, it typically takes around 50 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Yes, this route is generally considered easy and suitable for beginner touring cyclists. While there is a gradual but consistent incline to the summit of Mount Rubidoux, the paved surface and manageable elevation gain make it accessible. There are also options for a longer, flatter ascent if you prefer a less challenging climb.

The entire Mount Rubidoux Loop is paved, making for a smooth touring experience. While the larger Santa Ana River Trail can be very flat, this specific loop involves a gradual but consistent incline to the summit of Mount Rubidoux, with an elevation gain of about 84 meters. You'll encounter some hills, offering a more varied ride than the flatter coastal sections of the SART.

The route offers numerous scenic highlights. From the top of Mount Rubidoux, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding region, including local mountain ranges like Mount Baldy and the San Jacinto Mountains. Along the way, you'll pass historical landmarks such as the Serra Cross, the Peace Tower, and the Friendship Bridge. The trail also offers views of the Santa Ana River drainage and features natural vegetation, with wildflowers abundant in spring. You'll also pass by Lake Evans and the Safe in His Arms Memorial.

Yes, the Mount Rubidoux Loop is a key feature along the larger Santa Ana River Trail (SART), which is planned to be the longest multi-use trail in Southern California. This connection allows for longer touring possibilities. The route also passes through sections of the Santa Ana River Bicycle path and Main Street.

The Mount Rubidoux Loop is a very popular spot for various outdoor activities, including running, hiking, and walking, in addition to cycling. Cyclists should be courteous to pedestrians, especially on descents, and maintain a safe speed. Expect to share the path with many other users, particularly during peak hours and on weekends.