Two Trees Trail Hiking Guide
The Two Trees Trail is one of Riverside's most recognizable local hikes, named for the pair of trees visible from much of the city that mark the ridgeline above town. The trail winds through open chaparral and delivers sweeping views of the Inland Empire, the Santa Ana River valley, and on clear days, distant peaks. It's a rewarding out-and-back that suits hikers who want meaningful elevation and a genuine sense of place without committing to a full-day backcountry push.
Trail Overview and Character
The Two Trees Trail climbs from the Riverside foothills into the dry chaparral slopes of the Box Springs Mountain range. The route gains elevation steadily via switchbacks and exposed ridgeline segments, rewarding hikers with panoramic views well before the summit area. The namesake trees — visible as a landmark from the city below — sit near the high point of the trail and make for a satisfying destination. Expect rocky, packed-dirt singletrack with loose sections on steeper grades. The trail has minimal shade, so morning starts are strongly recommended from late spring onward.
Trailhead Access and Parking
The most common starting point is accessed from the Box Springs Mountain Reserve area on the eastern edge of Riverside near the UC Riverside campus. Street parking is available near the trailhead, though spots fill quickly on weekend mornings. There are no fees or permits required to access the trail. Arriving before 8 a.m. on weekends ensures a parking spot and a cooler start temperature. The trailhead is accessible by ride-share if you prefer not to drive. Check the City of Riverside Parks and Recreation site for any temporary closures related to fire risk or maintenance.
Elevation and Terrain
The trail climbs approximately 700 feet over roughly 2 miles to the ridge, making the round trip about 4 miles with steady but manageable grades. The lower sections are gentler and wind through scrubby brush. As you gain elevation, the trail narrows and the surface becomes rockier. The final push to the ridgeline is the steepest section, but the views that open up make it immediately worthwhile. Hikers with dogs should watch for loose footing on the upper switchbacks, and hot pavement near the trailhead can affect paw pads in summer months.
Best Times to Visit
Fall through spring offers the most comfortable conditions on the Two Trees Trail. Winter days are often crystal clear, delivering the best long-distance views of the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Peak. Spring brings brief wildflower color to the chaparral slopes. Summer hiking is possible but demands an early start — the exposed ridgeline becomes punishing once temperatures climb past the mid-70s. The trail sees the most traffic on weekend mornings year-round. Weekday afternoons in fall or winter are a good option if you prefer a quieter experience.
Wildlife and Natural Environment.
The Box Springs chaparral supports a variety of native wildlife including cactus wrens, California towhees, and the occasional red-tailed hawk riding thermals above the ridge. Mule deer are sometimes spotted in the lower brush at dawn. Rattlesnakes are present and most active from spring through early fall — stay on the trail, watch where you place your hands on rocks, and keep dogs leashed and close. The vegetation is dominated by sage scrub, chamise, and black sage, which gives the trail a distinctive aromatic quality especially after light rain.
Safety Considerations
The Two Trees Trail is exposed with limited shade, so heat management is the primary safety concern from May through September. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person and turn back if you feel lightheaded or fatigued. Cell service is generally available along the ridge, but don't rely on it exclusively. Letting someone know your plans before heading out is a basic precaution worth maintaining. Hiking with a partner or group adds a meaningful layer of security on this trail, particularly for solo hikers venturing out at dawn or dusk when visibility in the brush is reduced.
Hiking tips for Two Trees Trail
- Start before 8 a.m. on weekends to secure trailhead parking and beat both crowds and midday heat.
- Bring at least 2 liters of water per person — the ridge is fully exposed and shade is almost nonexistent above the lower slopes.
- Keep dogs leashed throughout; the upper switchbacks have loose footing and rattlesnakes are active in warm months.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat even in cooler months — the open chaparral offers no UV protection on the upper half of the trail.
- The two landmark trees at the ridgeline are a great turnaround point; take time to orient yourself to the city and peaks visible below before heading back.
Nearby trails to explore
- Box Springs Mountain Loop Trail.
- Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park Trail.
- Mount Rubidoux Loop Trail
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Planning a hike on the Two Trees Trail? Use TrailMates to find hiking partners at your pace and skill level, organize a group meetup that meets the 3-person safety minimum, and stay connected with the Inland Empire hiking community — download the TrailMates app or download TrailMates from the App Store.