The best city hikes and walks around Riverside

Embark on an easy hiking adventure through Fairmount Park Extended, a pleasant urban escape. This route spans 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 55 feet (17 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete the entire loop in about 1 hour and 2 minutes. As you hike, you will pass through shaded woodlands and enjoy views of Lake Evans, experiencing diverse flora and fauna within the park's wetlands and riparian zones.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Fairmount Park is well-connected and easily accessible. The trails link seamlessly to various park amenities and surrounding neighborhoods, offering convenience for all visitors. While specific parking details for this exact route are not provided, the park generally offers good accessibility. For practical needs, look for Park Hubs, which typically provide restrooms and maps from May to October, enhancing your experience on the trail.

Fairmount Park stands out as one of the country's largest urban green spaces, providing a vital natural refuge from city life. This particular route offers a refreshing journey through its expansive landscape, allowing you to connect with nature without leaving the city. It's an excellent choice if you are looking for a tranquil escape and a chance to observe local wildlife in a serene setting.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Santa Ana River Trail, a diverse route spanning 8.5 miles (13.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 207 feet (63 metres). You can expect to spend about 3 hours and 31 minutes exploring its varied landscapes. The trail transitions from the serene waters of Lake Evans and the green expanses of Fairmount Park to more natural, even desert-like, vegetation further along, offering a unique blend of urban and natural scenery.

Planning your visit to the Santa Ana River Trail is straightforward, as many sections are easily accessible. You'll find convenient parking generally available at various points along the route. The trail is designed with hikers in mind, often utilizing underpasses to ensure smooth, uninterrupted travel without frequent road crossings. Consider starting your hike early to enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during warmer months.

The Santa Ana River Trail offers a glimpse into the diverse Southern California landscape, showcasing how urban areas can coexist with natural habitats. It's a trail that is continually under development, reflecting an ongoing effort to connect communities and preserve natural spaces. This makes it a dynamic route, always evolving and providing a different perspective on the region's ecology and urban planning.

The Gage Canal Path offers an easy 0.4-mile (0.6 km) hike, taking about 9 minutes to complete with no elevation gain. You will walk alongside the historic Gage Canal, which still carries water, experiencing a varied landscape. The route transitions from residential areas into more rural settings, where you can spot trees, plants, and even orange groves. Keep an eye out for farmlands and farm animals like cows or horses as you make your way along this flat, well-maintained path. Eventually, you will enjoy views towards the California Citrus State Historic Park.

This path is suitable for all skill levels, making it a great option for a quick outdoor escape. You will find the route largely flat and well-maintained, ensuring an accessible experience. As you hike, you will cross quiet residential streets, but remember to exercise caution at the busy Washington Street intersection. Some parts of the path are exclusively for walkers, which helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere for your short outing.

The Gage Canal itself is a significant historical feature, still actively carrying water through the landscape. This trail provides a unique opportunity to observe its function and the surrounding environment. It offers a distinct blend of natural and agricultural scenery, setting it apart from typical urban walks. The path's proximity to the California Citrus State Historic Park also adds a layer of regional context to your brief journey.

Embark on the Challen Park Loop, an easy hike spanning 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 80 feet (24 metres). This route offers a pleasant mix of concrete paths and decomposed granite surfaces, including some mild uphill sections perfect for a light workout. As you hike, you'll discover rustic benches thoughtfully placed along the way, inviting you to pause and take in the views of the surrounding hills and the Riverside cityscape, especially from higher points on the trail. You can comfortably complete this loop in about 22 minutes, making it ideal for a quick escape into nature.

Planning your visit to Challen Park is straightforward, as the trails are well-maintained and easily accessible for various abilities. Parking is generally available, ensuring a convenient start to your outdoor adventure. If you have a furry friend, you'll be pleased to know that this is a dog-friendly location, so feel free to bring them along. The park provides a welcoming environment for both you and your canine companion to enjoy the fresh air.

Challen Park is known for its picturesque vistas, providing stunning panoramic views that truly set it apart in the region. The diverse terrain, from paved sections to natural paths, adds variety to your experience without being overly challenging. This loop serves as an excellent option for anyone seeking a brief yet rewarding outdoor activity, whether you're looking for a brisk walk or a peaceful moment to appreciate the scenery.