The best running trails in Riverside County

Embark on the Desert Springs loop, a moderate jogging route spanning 4.2 miles (6.8 km) with a gentle 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 42 minutes. As you jog, you'll pass through the meticulously maintained grounds of the Desert Springs Golf Club, enjoying views of mature palms, pines, and various water features like lakes and waterfalls. Keep an eye out for the vibrant pink flamingos that sometimes add a splash of color to the scenery, all while taking in the distant Santa Rosa Mountains and Coachella Valley vistas. This route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a resort-like atmosphere.

Planning your visit to the Desert Springs loop is straightforward, as the trail is integrated within the resort area. You will find the path largely composed of paved surfaces and accessible sections, making it suitable for most joggers. Access and parking are generally easy, allowing you to quickly begin your run without hassle. This popular route is a great option for a consistent and pleasant jogging experience in Palm Desert.

What makes this route stand out is its distinctive setting within a manicured golf course environment, offering a luxurious ambiance for your outdoor activity. It provides a unique jogging experience that combines the tranquility of a well-kept landscape with the convenience of a resort location. This particular trail is a popular choice in Palm Desert for those seeking a refreshing run in an unusual and visually appealing setting.

Embark on the Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail for a moderate jogging experience through Joshua Tree National Park. This 6.5-mile (10.4 km) route takes you past groves of iconic Joshua trees and offers expansive desert vistas. You will encounter varied terrain, from packed dirt to rocky sections and sandy hills, as you gain 660 feet (201 metres) in elevation. The trail culminates in panoramic views across Pleasant Valley and Malapai Hill, making for a rewarding 1 hour and 20 minutes of jogging.

When planning your visit, aim for the spring or fall seasons, as the weather is much milder for jogging. Summer temperatures can be very high, so if you go then, start your jog in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense heat. Be aware that the entire route offers little to no shade, so prepare accordingly with sun protection and plenty of water. Always check park conditions before heading out.

This trail offers a unique glimpse into the region's past, leading you to the historic Lost Horse Mine. It stands as one of Joshua Tree National Park's best-preserved gold mines, featuring a mostly intact 10-stamp mill and remnants of old cabins. Beyond the mine, you can also enjoy exceptional panoramic views from Lost Horse Mountain, adding a historical and scenic dimension to your outdoor activity.

Experience the Mount Rubidoux Loop, a moderate jogging route that offers consistent paved surfaces with a mix of gentle and steeper inclines. As you ascend, you will be treated to expansive panoramic views of Riverside and the surrounding mountains. The trail is dotted with historical markers, leading you up to the prominent Serra Cross at the summit, where 360-degree vistas await. This 3.4-mile (5.5 km) loop involves gaining 591 feet (180 metres) in elevation, making it a good workout that typically takes about 38 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to Mount Rubidoux is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible and popular for various activities. You will find parking generally available close to the trailhead, making it easy to start your outing. This well-frequented Southern California destination is suitable for joggers, walkers, and even those with strollers or dogs on leashes. It is a great option for a quick workout any time of day.

The Mount Rubidoux Loop stands out as a significant local landmark, offering more than just a physical challenge. It is a place rich with history, featuring notable sites like the Friendship Bridge and the Peace Tower along your path. The iconic Serra Cross at the peak provides a focal point and a reward for your efforts, symbolizing the area's heritage. This makes the route a popular choice not just for exercise, but also for experiencing a piece of Southern California's cultural landscape.

Embark on the Lake Perris loop, a difficult jogging route that offers a challenging yet rewarding experience around the scenic Lake Perris. This 10.2-mile (16.4 km) journey will have you gaining 421 feet (128 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the lake, framed by picturesque mountains in the distance. The trail itself presents a varied terrain, featuring a mix of both paved and unpaved surfaces to keep your run engaging.

Before you head out, be aware that accessing the Lake Perris State Recreation Area usually requires an entry fee, typically around $10. The route is a multi-use trail, so you will share it with hikers and cyclists; however, bikes are not permitted on the dam section. Plan your visit to take advantage of the designated picnic areas available along the route, perfect for a post-jog cool-down or a mid-run break. Consider starting early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially during warmer months.

While jogging the Lake Perris loop, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as various birds and rabbits that frequent the area. During the winter months, if you look towards the horizon, you might even spot the distant, snow-capped peaks of the San Bernardino, San Jacinto, and Santa Rosa Mountains. This route provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and observe the changing landscape throughout the seasons.

If you're looking for a demanding jogging experience, the San Jacinto Peak via Round Valley Trail delivers a difficult 10.0 miles (16.0 km) journey. You will ascend 2407 feet (734 metres) in elevation, typically completing the route in about 2 hours and 21 minutes. The trail winds through serene pine forests and open meadows, where you might encounter local wildlife like deer. As you gain altitude, the trees give way to expansive vistas of Mount San Jacinto itself. Reaching Wellman Divide rewards you with sweeping views across southern ridges and valleys, stretching towards the distant Salton Sea.

Accessing the trailhead for this route primarily involves taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Before you set out, remember that free day-use wilderness permits are required; you can obtain these at the Long Valley Ranger Station. This station also serves as your last reliable water source before heading further up the mountain. Be aware that heavy snow and harsh conditions are common during winter months, making the trail suitable only for experienced winter joggers during that season.

This trail leads you to the summit of San Jacinto Peak, standing at an impressive 10,834 feet. From this high point, you can enjoy expansive 360-degree panoramic views that, on a clear day, can extend all the way to the Pacific Ocean and the Los Angeles Basin. The route offers a strenuous workout with significant altitude changes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a challenging and rewarding high-altitude jogging adventure.

Embark on the South Lykken Trail Loop for a difficult jogging experience covering 7.1 miles (11.4 km) with a significant 1156 feet (352 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 27 minutes. As you ascend, you'll be treated to continuous, expansive views of Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley, and the majestic Mt. San Jacinto. Keep an eye out for vibrant wildflowers like yellow brittlebush and various flowering cacti, especially if you visit in spring, and make sure to pause at the Simonetta Kennett Vista Point for excellent valley vistas.

Given the trail offers no shade, it's wise to plan your jog for the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late afternoons, particularly outside of the hottest months. Always carry more water than you anticipate needing and apply sun protection to stay safe and comfortable. You can begin your journey from either the southern end on South Palm Canyon Drive or the northern access point near West Mesquite Avenue.

This route winds through the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, an area known for its diverse desert ecosystem. While jogging, you might spot local wildlife such as bighorn sheep, various lizards, and roadrunners, adding an element of discovery to your workout. The trail's challenging nature and rewarding views make it a notable option for experienced trail runners looking for a strenuous outing in the region.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Sitton Peak via Bear Canyon and Bear Ridge Loop, a difficult route that spans 9.9 miles (15.9 km). You will gain 1816 feet (553 metres) in elevation, pushing your endurance over an estimated 2 hours and 12 minutes. As you jog, the scenery shifts from coastal chaparral and riparian zones, including an oak grove, to open boulder-strewn ridges and a wide canyon.

For your visit, be aware that the final ascent to Sitton Peak is particularly steep, rutted, and can be muddy. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear with excellent traction to handle these conditions. Many joggers find trekking poles helpful for maintaining stability on both the demanding climb and descent, so consider bringing them along.

Reaching Sitton Peak is the highlight of this route, rewarding you with expansive 360-degree views. From the summit, you can see across Riverside and Orange counties, the majestic San Bernardino Mountains, the Orange County coastline, and even Catalina Island on clear days. This panoramic vista offers a unique perspective on the region's diverse landscape.

Prepare for a difficult jogging challenge on the Suicide Rock via Deer Springs Trail. This route covers 6.7 miles (10.8 km) and climbs 1850 feet (564 metres), taking about 1 hours and 33 minutes to complete. You will jog through diverse terrain, starting among oak trees before transitioning to higher elevations with pines, massive Manzanita bushes, and evergreen foliage. As you ascend, views open up, culminating in panoramic vistas from Suicide Rock itself, overlooking Strawberry Valley, Idyllwild, Lily Rock, and Mount San Jacinto.

Before you head out, know that a free wilderness permit is required for this trail. You can pick one up at the Idyllwild Forest Service Ranger Station or Mt. San Jacinto State Park. It is crucial to carry enough water with you, as there are no water sources available along the route. Also, keep in mind that dogs are generally not allowed on this trail because it enters State Park Wilderness areas.

This strenuous jog is perfect if you are looking for a significant uphill workout within Mount San Jacinto State Park. The trail offers a unique experience with its varied plant life and the rewarding views from the summit. It is an excellent option for those who enjoy a challenging ascent and the natural beauty of the high desert and mountain transition zones.

The Mastodon Mine Loop Trail offers a moderate jogging experience through Joshua Tree National Park. You will cover 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with an elevation gain of 379 feet (116 metres), typically taking about 37 minutes to complete. The route begins near the lush palm trees of Cottonwood Springs Oasis, quickly transitioning to a varied desert landscape of rocky formations, dusty paths, and sandy sections. As you jog, you will encounter stone steps and expansive views, culminating in panoramic vistas from Mastodon Peak.

Before you head out, remember that this trail is within Joshua Tree National Park, so be prepared for park entrance fees and regulations. While much of the route is suitable for jogging, some varied terrain, including sandy washes and rocky areas, might require you to walk. Always carry plenty of water, as shade is limited along the entire route, and wear sturdy footwear to navigate the diverse surfaces.

This trail is notable for blending natural beauty with historical intrigue, offering a glimpse into the region's past. Beyond the scenic desert views, you can explore the remnants of the Mastodon Mine, adding a unique historical dimension to your outdoor activity. From Mastodon Peak, you can also spot distant landmarks like Eagle Peak, Monument Mountain, and even the Salton Sea, providing a broad perspective of the surrounding area.