The best walks and hikes in Riverside County

Yes, there are many options for families. The Skull Rock Nature Trail and Split Rock loops in Joshua Tree National Park is a great choice, offering fascinating rock formations on a relatively flat path. Another excellent option is the Palm Canyon Trail, which provides a gentle walk through a beautiful palm oasis.

Dog policies vary significantly across the county. While many city and regional parks like Mount Rubidoux Park are dog-friendly (on-leash), dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Joshua Tree National Park or other sensitive ecological reserves to protect wildlife. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit before bringing your dog.

Yes, you can find waterfalls, especially after rainfall. The Tahquitz Falls loop near Palm Springs is a popular hike leading to a seasonal 60-foot waterfall in a scenic canyon. Keep in mind that the flow of the waterfall is dependent on recent weather.

For a strenuous challenge, the hike to the Lost Palms Canyon offers a longer desert trek with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Skyline Route in Mount San Jacinto State Park, which involves a very steep ascent of over 10,000 feet from the desert floor.

The county offers a wide variety of trails. There are over 300 routes to explore, with a good mix for all abilities: approximately 155 are rated as easy, 138 as moderate, and 54 as difficult. You can find everything from flat desert nature walks to steep mountain climbs.

Packing depends on the location and season. For desert hikes, especially in Joshua Tree, always carry more water than you think you'll need, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and salty snacks. For the higher elevations of the San Jacinto Mountains, pack layers as temperatures can be much cooler. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for all terrains.

Absolutely. Many trails are designed as loops so you can enjoy new scenery for the entire hike. The Mastodon Peak Loop Trail is a fantastic option that includes views and a bit of history. For a longer desert experience, the Wall Street Mill Trail & Barker Dam Loop combines historic sites with natural beauty.

The region is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunningly diverse landscapes, from the unique geology of Joshua Tree National Park to the cool, forested trails in the mountains.

Besides the well-known national and state parks, locals enjoy several other areas.

Mount Rubidoux Park is a very popular paved trail in the city of Riverside offering 360-degree views. Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park has an extensive network of dirt trails for both hiking and biking. For a more rugged experience with a chance to see wild donkeys, many people head to Box Springs Mountain Reserve.

For panoramic desert vistas, the steady climb up Ryan Mountain in Joshua Tree National Park is unmatched. If you prefer city and valley views, the Herb Jefferies Trail loop near Palm Desert provides excellent overlooks of the Coachella Valley.

The best time to hike is generally from October to May. The desert areas, including Joshua Tree and the Coachella Valley, are most pleasant during the cooler fall, winter, and spring months. Summer hiking in the desert can be extremely dangerous due to high temperatures. The higher-elevation trails in the San Jacinto Mountains offer a great escape from the heat in the summer.