Mount Rubidoux Park

Park Overview

Mount Rubidoux Park is a 161-acre urban park located in Riverside, California, just west of downtown. The park is centered around Mount Rubidoux, a hill that rises to an elevation of 1,331 feet (406 meters) and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Trails and Accessibility

The park features a 3.5-mile network of paved roads and several dirt hiking trails that wind their way to the summit. The main trail is a 3.2-mile loop that is popular among walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

The paved path makes the park accessible to a wide range of visitors, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.

Summit Attractions

At the top of Mount Rubidoux, visitors will find several points of interest. The most prominent is a large cross dedicated to Father Junípero Serra, which has been a subject of both historical significance and legal controversy.

Other attractions include the Peace Tower and Friendship Bridge, built in 1925 in honor of Frank Miller, a notable figure in Riverside's history.

Historical Significance

Mount Rubidoux Park has a rich history dating back to 1906 when it was established by Frank Miller and Henry E. Huntington. It is the site of the oldest outdoor non-denominational Easter Sunrise service in the United States, a tradition that began in 1909 and has attracted tens of thousands of attendees over the years.

Visitor Information

The park is open from dawn to dusk and is managed by the City of Riverside with support from the Friends of Mount Rubidoux, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and beautifying the park.

While the park offers stunning views and recreational opportunities, visitors should note that there are no restroom facilities on the mountain itself.