This blog will detail 1,000 video hikes in Southern California. By Southern California, I am drawing a line from San Luis Obispo to the Nevada Border. Anything south of that line will be declared "Southern California". In a way, it is a personal challenge to do so many hikes. Mainly, however, it is my way of showcasing how many hiking opportunities there really are right in our own geographic back yard. As a blog, it serves as a companion piece to my Youtube channel "Mike On The Trail". It is also a work in progress, as I don't actually have 1,000 edited videos completed. This will take effort for quite some time before it is declared done. Even then, there will still be more out there. Here's to hiking and all the positive effects it has had on my life...and possibly yours!
As classic as a hike gets, Mount Rubidoux is one of those hikes that must be done at least once in your lifetime. Even if you are not a hiker, this one is doable as a place to get a little exercise and good views. Over the years, starting points for this hike has changed. For now, the best place to start is from Ryan Bonaminio Park in Riverside. A short walk up San Andreas Avenue leads to the Mount Rubidoux Trailhead. Paved roadways lead up and down the small mountain, along with a good portion of the Riverside population. Did I mention yet that this is a popular hike?
A dramatic summit shot.
Views open up right away, and these are some of the best city views imaginable. Along the way are a few historical placards representing the mountain's history. The first half of the hike leads to the summit, where a huge white cross marks the summit. Stair steps leading to the cross are also seats in a hug amphitheater that is used in the annual Easter summit gathering. On it's twin summit sits a big American flag. These high points are great places to hang out and enjoy the views for a little longer.
World Peace Bridge & Tower.
On the way down, I continued along the route that I did not come in on. The roadway bends around the upper slope and reaches the World Peace Tower and Friendship Bridge. The tower is photogenic, and looks like something out of Medieval Europe. The road leads back to a junction reached earlier before summiting. This time I continued forward, which continued on a loop hike back down the opposite side of the mountain. The trail loops around the lower slopes and returns to the Mount Rubidoux Trailhead. This is truly an enjoyable hiking experience, especially on a cool day.
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