Mount Rubidoux | Riverside | CA

An Urban Adventure
on the Way to Las Vegas

You know those places that aren’t on your radar but end up being a cool surprise? That was Mount Rubidoux Park for me.

I was en route to Las Vegas to catch up with an old friend, but first, I had to scratch that hiking itch. So, a quick AllTrails search led me to Mount Rubidoux—a quirky hike tucked right into the middle of Riverside.

At first glance, it’s not a towering peak that screams epic. Still, don’t let its modest size fool you. Rising to 1,332 feet, this urban oasis pops up almost out of nowhere, delivering a solid hike with a dash of history, great views, and a fun local vibe. Altogether, the park offers about 3.5 miles of trails—perfect for a quick adventure without overthinking it.

Photos: The Entrance – Let the Adventure Begin! | Wait, How Many Rules?!

A Hill with a View… and a Whole Lot of History

What really sets Mount Rubidoux apart from your typical city park is its history. The land was once part of the estate of Louis Rubidoux, an 1800s entrepreneur and the park’s namesake. Because of that, every step up the hill feels like walking through a slice of Southern California’s past.

Along the way, one of the standout landmarks is the iconic Peace Bridge. Built in 1925 and dedicated to—you guessed it—world peace, it’s one of those features that makes you slow down and actually read the plaque.

Photo: The Peace Bridge

Photos: The Peace Bridge Tower and the Commemorative Plaque

Then there’s the cross. Sitting at the summit, this massive structure was erected in 1907 to commemorate the first Easter Sunrise Service held there—a tradition that still continues today.

Of course, it hasn’t been without controversy. In 2013, after years of debate over religious symbols on public land, the small parcel where the cross stands was auctioned off to a private group. Only in California, right? Regardless, controversy or not, the cross has become an enduring symbol of the park and adds yet another layer to its already fascinating story.

Photo: The Controversial Cross

The Path Less Paved (Or Not)

I kicked things off at Ryan Bonamino Park, which—importantly—has restrooms. That alone makes it a solid starting point if you plan on spending time on the trails.

After a short walk, I reached the trailhead and got moving. At first, the lower trails are paved. However, as you climb higher, dirt paths appear for those wanting a bit more adventure. I ended up mixing it up—running some stretches and hiking others.

Meanwhile, the wide trails made it easy to weave through families, runners, cyclists, and, of course, plenty of pups. And don’t let the word hill fool you. Mount Rubidoux has some steep inclines that will absolutely get your heart pumping.

Luckily, the payoff comes quickly. On a clear day, the views stretch for miles, with sightlines all the way to Mount Baldy and the San Jacinto Mountains.

Photos: This “hill” will give you a good cardio workout!

Photos: Paved Trails Keep Navigation Smooth, Even on Steep Hills

Photos: Dirt Paths – Adding a Dash of Adventure

Views, Vibes, and a Bit of Zen

As I climbed higher, Riverside unfolded below me, framed by surrounding mountains and the winding Santa Ana River. Every few steps, I found myself stopping—partly to catch my breath, but mostly to soak it all in.

By the time I reached the summit, standing next to the cross with a full 360-degree panorama, it felt like one of those earned it moments. There’s just something about being high above the city, enjoying a little peace and quiet—paired with a killer view—that never gets old.

Photos: Incredible Views from the Summit

Photos: City Park with a Mountainous Vib

Mount Rubidoux wasn’t on my original itinerary. Still, it quickly became one of the more memorable parts of the trip. Between the history, scenery, and strong community vibe, this hidden gem in Riverside is absolutely worth a stop.

Viva Las Vegas: Music, Donuts, and Fun Vibes

Not long after wrapping up my Mount Rubidoux adventure, I hit the road for Las Vegas. Once there, my buddy Peter invited me to catch his band, Tokyo Groove Jyoshi, at Maxan Jazz Club.

Peter and I go way back—to our Kilimanjaro days, where we were tent mates. Since then, he’s switched gears from tax expert and business consultant to band manager, which still makes me smile.

Staying Nirvana: A Motel with a Twist

Las Vegas is famous for its towering casinos and over-the-top hotels. This time, though, I went a bit off the beaten path and stayed at Nirvana Hotel—a quirky boutique spot just behind Mandalay Bay and next to Harry Reid International Airport.

It’s a converted Motel 6 with clean, stylish rooms, affordable rates, and—bonus—free parking (a rarity in Vegas). For a quick overnight stay, it checked every box.

Photos: Nirvana Hotel – Las Vegas | My Room

Tokyo Groove Jyoshi: Jazz with a Twist

Maxan Jazz is an intimate venue. As soon as Tokyo Groove Jyoshi hit the stage, the place lit up.

These three insanely talented women—Emi on keys, MiMi on drums, and Rina on bass—blend jazz and funk so seamlessly that you can’t help but get swept up in the groove. Catching up with Peter after the show was the perfect cap to the night.

And the food? Sushi courtesy of former Nobu chefs. Jazz and sushi—who knew that was such a winning combo? Huge thanks to Max and Angie for their incredible hospitality.

Photos: Maxan Jazz | Max and Angie – The Owners

Photo: The Band – Tokyo Groove Jyoshi | MiMi | Rina | Emi

Photos: The Band Groovin’ | Rina Shredding a Bass Solo

Photos: Feasting in Style – Sushi Roll & Crispy Crab Ball

Photos: Chillin’ with Peter – Catching the Show
Rockin’ the After Party with the Band

Brunch and Doughnuts: Fueling Up in Style

The next morning, Peter and I grabbed brunch at Bespoke Kitchen All Day Café. If comfort food with a creative twist is your thing, this spot delivers.

Sure, they occasionally mix up an order. But honestly? We were having a blast, and a little mix-up just added to the fun.

Photo: Brunch with Peter | Bespoke All Day Cafe

Before heading our separate ways, we made one final stop at Pinkbox Doughnuts. Here, doughnuts are just as much about art as they are indulgence.

From classics like the Brown Suga—a raised ring dusted in cinnamon sugar—to wild creations like the Tutti Frutti topped with Fruity Pebbles™, and even the special of the month, Holy Peanut Butter (filled with peanut butter cheesecake), it was hard to choose.

Photos: Pinkbox Doughnuts – Las Vegas | Peter & Pinky

Photos: A Sweet Spread from Pinkbox Doughnuts – Classic Brown Suga to Funky Favorites like Holy Peanut Butter and Tutti Fruitti

---

From the urban charm of Mount Rubidoux to the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, this trip delivered it all—nature, history, music, and food.

Next stop: Big Bear Lake—finally, after living in SoCal for years!

Photo: Big Bear Lake

Catch You on the Road!

Date of Mount Rubidoux Visit: 14 June 2024
Dates of Las Vegas Visit: 14–15 June 2024