MLK day hike

Yesterday, we visited Sugarloaf peak trail (33.987417741607764, -117.31789731549846), part of the Box Spring Mountain range in Riverside County. Vader remained off leash for the entire hike and continues to show improvement. Seasonal winter rains have transformed the trail, replacing the area’s usual dry, brown landscape with vibrant green hillsides and dense ground cover including California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), buckwheat (Eriogonum), and other drought-adapted natives.

The unshaded trail begins with a steep climb, gaining roughly 400 feet in the first half mile. Although the air temperature was mild, the sun-warmed granite boulders and exposed sections of trail radiated heat. Carrying enough water is highly recommended.

As elevation increases, the trail opens to wide views over the surrounding University of California - Riverside campus.