01
Closest climb from Highgrove
Two Trees Trail
Highgrove Foothills • Steep Viewpoint Trail • Quick Local Workout
A short but steep climb from the edge of Highgrove to a ridge with broad views over Riverside and the surrounding valleys.[3][4]
Starting from the neighborhood just above Highgrove, Two Trees heads straight up the open slope, gaining views quickly as you switchback toward the Box Springs ridgeline.[3][4] It is a favorite for locals squeezing in a dawn or sunset workout, with exposed terrain, frequent breezes, and a real summit feel in under a couple of miles. The grade is no joke, so bring decent shoes and water, but you are rewarded almost immediately with city lights and far-off mountain backdrops.
02
Best workout hike
Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park
Between Riverside And Moreno Valley • Wild Foothill Preserve • Big-View Training Ground
A rugged network of trails climbing to Box Springs Mountain’s high ridges, with multiple routes, steep grades, and wide-open Inland Empire views.[5]
Box Springs Mountain looms directly above Highgrove, and the reserve’s many routes let you choose anything from a moderate loop to a long, sustained grind to the radio towers.[5] Trails are mostly exposed fire roads and singletrack, so you get sweeping views over Riverside, Moreno Valley, and on clear days out toward the San Bernardinos. It is a prime spot for hikers and trail runners looking to train on real elevation while still staying close to town.
03
Most iconic local hike
Mount Rubidoux Park
Downtown Riverside • Historic Riverside Summit Walk • Best Introduction For Visitors
A paved and dirt loop up Riverside’s signature hill, with a cross-topped summit, historic stonework, and big views of the Santa Ana River corridor.[5]
Mount Rubidoux is where many locals bring out-of-town guests for a first Inland Empire hike, thanks to its short distance, steady grade, and postcard-worthy views over downtown Riverside.[5] The mostly paved route winds past old stone arches and up to the summit cross, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels while still feeling like a real hill climb. Go early or near sunset for cooler temps and a lively mix of walkers, runners, and families enjoying the skyline.
04
Best for mellow exploring
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park
Canyon Crest & Sycamore Canyon • Urban-Edge Canyon Preserve • Laid-Back Half-Day Outing
A sprawling preserve of rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and interlacing dirt paths right on the edge of Riverside’s neighborhoods.[2]
Sycamore Canyon offers a choose-your-own-adventure feel, with a web of trails that let you stitch together anything from an easy hour-long wander to a longer loop over multiple ridges.[2] Expect gentle climbs, pockets of wildflowers in season, and the occasional technical stretch around rock features, all with the convenience of being minutes from shops and housing. It is an easy pick when you want to get off pavement without committing to a big climb like Box Springs.
05
Best lake-and-views combo
Terri Peak Trail at Lake Perris
Lake Perris State Recreation Area • Lakeside Summit Route • Weekend Adventure
A rocky summit hike above Lake Perris that pairs a satisfying climb with wide water views and a classic Inland Empire ridgeline.[2]
Terri Peak rises sharply above Lake Perris, and the trail to the top serves up a steady climb over granite-studded slopes and desert scrub.[2] From the summit, you look out over the reservoir, surrounding hills, and distant mountain ranges, making it feel more remote than its drive time from Highgrove would suggest. Combine the hike with a lakeside picnic or a swim in warm months for a full day out without leaving Riverside County.