Day Trips from Riverside
← All Riverside day tripsDay Trips from Riverside: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Riverside, CA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Riverside
Point Dume Natural Preserve
Malibu, CA 90265
Just 1 hr 48 min from Riverside, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail
Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Riverside, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Vicente Bluffs Reserve
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Just 1 hr 27 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 868 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Just 48 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 2,250 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Palos Verdes Estates Shoreline Preserve
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Just 1 hr 27 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 2,925 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Palm Canyon
CA 92264, USA
Just 1 hr 15 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 958 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Stoneview Nature Center
Culver City, CA 90232
Just 1 hr 12 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 507 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Whitewater Preserve
Whitewater, CA 92282
Just 55 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 1,481 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Oak Glen Preserve
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Just 43 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 3,091 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dana Point Preserve
34558 Scenic Dr, Dana Point
Just 1 hr 2 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 946 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Placerita Canyon Nature Center
Newhall, CA 91321
Just 1 hr 25 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 1,197 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ocean Trails Reserve
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Just 1 hr 18 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 1,342 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Riverside
What are the best hiking trails near Riverside, CA?
The best hikes near Riverside range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Riverside?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Riverside offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Riverside?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Riverside are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Riverside?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Riverside. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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