Mount Rubidoux Bike Ride, Riverside

Overview

Mount Rubidoux rises just west of downtown Riverside, and it is one of the most unusual climbs in the Inland Empire: a city park and historic landmark where the paved roads are closed to cars. The City of Riverside describes 161 acres with 3.5 miles of paved roads and several dirt hiking trails, open from dawn to dusk to walkers, joggers and bicyclists. The cross at the summit, dedicated to Father Junípero Serra, the historic markers along the way, and the view over the Santa Ana River and the city make it a short ride with a lot of character.

The route in plain words

Park at Ryan Bonaminio Park, which the city recommends for visitors, and enter the paved road network. The roads wind up the mountain in a series of switchbacks and loops, with a narrower road climbing toward the summit area near the cross. Most riders climb one side, enjoy the view from the top, and descend the other branch to complete a loop, then repeat. Because the roads are car-free, it is a great place for short climbing repeats, especially for riders who live or work near downtown Riverside. It also pairs well with the Santa Ana River Trail's Riverside section, which runs right past the base of the mountain.

Distance and elevation

The City of Riverside lists 3.5 miles (5.6 km) of paved roads in the park. AllTrails and a local conservancy describe the popular main loop at about 3.2 miles with about 500 ft of gain. Metrolink describes the road as paved and steep. There is no single official cycling distance, so treat these as approximate and expect short, steep grades rather than a long climb.

Best time to ride

The park is open from dawn until dusk, and the mountain and the nearby parking lot close at night; the city notes there is no lighting and night visits are not allowed. Early morning is ideal, especially in summer when Riverside gets very hot by late morning. Weekend mornings are busy with walkers; weekday mornings are quieter. Major community events, like the Easter Sunrise service and Fourth of July fireworks launched from the summit, change access on those days.

Water and coffee stops

The city notes restrooms at Ryan Bonaminio Park during park hours. Downtown Riverside, a few minutes away, has plenty of cafés and restaurants, and the historic Mission Inn area is a pleasant place to finish a ride. Bring water; there are no shops on the mountain.

Safety notes

The paved roads are shared with large numbers of walkers, runners, strollers and dogs. Ride slowly and courteously, especially on the descent, where blind corners and pedestrians walking two or three abreast are common. The city discourages large gatherings, so this is not a place for group training. Speed is never appropriate here; think of Rubidoux as a climbing gym, not a racecourse.

Which bike and setup

Any bike can do it, but the grades are steep, so a compact crankset with a wide cassette makes repeats more enjoyable. A gravel bike lets you explore nearby river paths too. Good brakes matter for controlled descents among pedestrians.

Before you go

Riverside riders: Veloaded is about a 40-minute drive from downtown Riverside. If your brakes squeal on Rubidoux descents or your shifting hesitates on the steep pitches, book a service with us in Santa Ana, or call (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: Riverside County (Inland Empire)
Start: Ryan Bonaminio Park, Riverside
Distance: 3.5 miles of paved roads in the park (City of Riverside)
Climbing: Steep, short grades; about 500 ft on the main loop (AllTrails lists about 3.2 miles)
Surface: Paved car-free park roads
Difficulty: Short and steep

Pair it with

Roll along the Riverside section of the Santa Ana River Trail nearby, or head east for Oak Glen.

Frequently asked questions

Can you bike Mount Rubidoux?

Yes. The park roads are closed to cars and open to walkers, joggers and cyclists from dawn to dusk.

Where do you park for Mount Rubidoux?

The City of Riverside recommends the lot at Ryan Bonaminio Park.

Sources

Distances and climbing are from the published sources listed above and are approximate; roads, closures and conditions change. Check current conditions before you ride.

More Riverside County / Inland Empire ride guides

All guides: Southern California ride guides. Veloaded Cyclery has one location, at 3420 W MacArthur Blvd Suite B, Santa Ana, CA 92704: service menu, bike fitting.