Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
3,631.00 ft (1,106.73 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
11.30 mi (18.19 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Verdugo Mountains (also known as “The Verdugos) provide city dwellers with an opportunity to get away from the cars and crowds without traveling too far. This small rugged mountain range is surrounded by the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Canada and Pasadena. But, despite being in the middle of Los Angeles County, when you get up into the Verdugos you will not find any paved roads. Instead you will have 20+ miles of well maintained fire roads and single track dirt trails to hike, bike, or run along.

If you are training for a big hike or trail run, The Verdugos are a great place to build up mileage and get some serious elevation gain. Adventurers will climb 2,000+ ft to reach the peaks of the Verdugos and can choose to do so via steep single tracks, or long and winding fire roads. 

Visiting in the early morning, or evening, is ideal as there is little shade and no flowing water in the Verdugos. Rattlesnakes, Bobcats, and Coyotes are frequent in the Verdugos so make sure to stay aware and alert. 

The Verdugo Loop begins in Sunset Canyon in a neighborhood of Burbank, CA. There is usually plenty of street parking in this neighborhood (make sure to read the signs for any restrictions). This route has several ups and downs ending with an equal elevation gain and loss of about 3,640ft. 

This is a great route for strengthening your ability to hike or run uphill and downhill. The Verdugos are a great place to get outdoors and offer plenty of opportunities to create your own adventure!


 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Winter
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Uncrowded. Many Trails. Scenic City Views.

Cons

Heat. No Water.

Trailhead Elevation

1,169.00 ft (356.31 m)

Highest point

2,831.00 ft (862.89 m)

Features

Bird watching
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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