This is my favorite Easter service. This is an inter-denominational service and local pastors put together a truly meaningful worship service while dawn rises to reveal a giant cross on the top of the mountain. Worship bands perform moving music. A program is handed out so that we can all follow along. And the service is different every year. I just love it!
This is the longest running sunrise Easter service in the nation. For more information, visit https://www.riversideeasterservice.com.
The worship service begins at 6:00 a.m. However, it takes about an hour to walk up the trail to the top of the mountain where the service is held, so we will begin our trek at 5:00 a.m. The trail is actually a paved path, about 2.5 miles long, and pretty easy, with less than 400 feet of elevation to the top. Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.
Bring a sweater as the pre-dawn hours are surprisingly cool, even when the days have been quite warm. Bring a folding chair or blanket to sit on, And bring water to drink. Sometimes a boy scout troop hands out free water bottles. Public port-a-potties are provided for free.
If you are running late and we started without you, don’t panic! Just park at Ryan Bonaminio Park, then follow the crowds across the street and up the hill two blocks to the trailhead. There, the trail splits into two paths. Take either one as they both end up at the top. We will be sitting right at the feet of the worship team, facing them. Come find us!
Please join me for breakfast after the service at Rivera Family Restaurant on 5633 Mission Blvd, Riverside, CA 92509.
