The best running trails in Riverside County

Riverside County offers a wide selection of over 200 running routes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy, flat paths to challenging mountain ascents.

Yes, Riverside County has 22 easy running routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed jog. These often feature flatter terrain and shorter distances, such as sections of the Santa Ana River Trail or paths within local parks like Fairmount Park.

The region boasts incredibly diverse terrain. You can run along serene riverside paths, through lush greenways, tackle challenging mountain trails with significant elevation changes, or explore unique desert vistas. Options range from paved surfaces to dirt paths and rugged natural trails.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by notable landmarks. For panoramic views, consider the Mount Rubidoux Loop, which takes you to the historic Mount Rubidoux Summit and Cross. In the desert, the Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail offers unique desert vistas within Joshua Tree National Park, passing by Mastodon Peak.

Yes, many routes in Riverside County are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mount Rubidoux Loop, the Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail, and the Lake Perris loop. These are great for exploring without needing to retrace your steps.

The running routes in Riverside County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average rating of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from serene riverbanks to challenging mountain paths, and the unique desert environments that make each run an adventure.

Absolutely. For longer distances, consider the Lake Perris loop, which is 10.2 miles (16.4 km) long. Another challenging option is the San Jacinto Peak via Round Valley Trail, a 10-mile (16 km) route with significant elevation gain, offering a strenuous workout and stunning views of San Jacinto Peak.

Yes, Riverside County is bordered by mountain ranges like the Santa Ana Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains, offering routes with substantial elevation changes. The San Jacinto Peak via Round Valley Trail, for instance, features over 730 meters of ascent, providing a very demanding run. The South Lykken Trail Loop also offers over 350 meters of elevation gain.

While popular spots can get busy, areas like the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve near Murrieta offer over 9,000 acres of protected land with oak woodlands and grasslands, providing a more tranquil running experience. The Hidden Valley Wildlife Area also features 25 miles of multi-use trails, often less crowded than central park areas.

Definitely. The eastern part of Riverside County includes desert landscapes, notably within Joshua Tree National Park. The Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail is a prime example, offering a moderate 6.5-mile run through unique desert vistas. Another option is the Mastodon Mine Loop Trail, also in a desert setting.

Riverside County offers year-round jogging opportunities, but the best season depends on your preference. Spring and fall generally offer mild temperatures, ideal for most routes. Summers can be very hot, especially in desert areas, so early morning or evening runs are recommended, or sticking to shaded riverside paths. Winters are typically mild and pleasant for running.

Yes, you can find excellent running opportunities near the San Bernardino National Forest. The Murray Hill Loop – San Bernardino National Forest is a challenging 9.4-mile (15.2 km) route with significant elevation, offering a great trail running experience in that area.