The best walks and hikes around Glendale

Yes, the San Rafael Hills offer some great options for families. The Scholl Canyon Fire Road loop is a relatively flat 4.1-mile (6.6 km) trail that's suitable for most fitness levels. Additionally, the Catalina Verdugo Trail is a well-regarded two-mile loop designed for an easy-going walk through the canyons.

Many trails in Glendale are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. The fire roads in the Verdugo Mountains, such as those starting from the popular Beaudry Loop Trailhead, are common spots for hikers with dogs. Always check specific park regulations before you go, as rules can vary, especially in wilderness areas.

For trails in the Verdugo Mountains, Brand Park is a major hub with a large parking area. It serves as the starting point for several trails. For hikes in the northern part of Glendale, Deukmejian Wilderness Park has dedicated parking near the historic Stone Barn Nature Center. Street parking is available for other trailheads like the Beaudry Loop, but be sure to check for any posted restrictions.

While Glendale's immediate trails are mostly dry chaparral, several popular waterfall hikes are a short drive away in the San Gabriel Mountains. Switzer Falls and Trail Canyon Falls are two highly-rated options, both involving a trek through canyons to reach the waterfalls. Be aware that the water flow varies significantly depending on the season and recent rainfall.

The trails in the Verdugo Mountains are famous for their panoramic views. As you climb, you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of downtown Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and the San Gabriel Mountains. On exceptionally clear days, you might even see the Pacific Ocean. The Brand Library Hiking Trail is particularly well-known for offering excellent viewpoints.

The Verdugos are known for their steep and challenging trails, which are a great workout. Many routes involve significant elevation gain on fire roads. For a strenuous climb, the Verdugo Crest loop from Brand Park is a tough but rewarding option. There are moderate routes as well, but expect a consistent incline on most trails in this range.

The best times to hike in Glendale are during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to May). Summers can be very hot and dry, making strenuous midday hikes potentially dangerous. If you do hike in the summer, go early in the morning or late in the evening and carry plenty of water.

Yes, for a difficult, full-day adventure, consider the Mount Lukens via Haines Canyon Road loop. This nearly 10-mile (16 km) trek involves over 2,800 feet (850 m) of elevation gain and offers a serious challenge with incredible views from the highest point in the city of Los Angeles.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails from the city, the stunning 360-degree views from the ridgelines, and the well-maintained fire roads that provide a great workout.

Yes, Glendale has several excellent loop trails, which means you don't have to backtrack. The Brand Park loop is a moderate 2.3-mile (3.7 km) option. For a longer circuit, the Tongva Peak via the Beaudry Motorway loop is a popular 6.7-mile (10.9 km) hike on a wide fire road.

Deukmejian Wilderness Park, located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, offers a more rugged and remote hiking experience. The 709-acre park features trails that wind through chaparral and woodlands, with options ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs into Dunsmore and Cook's Canyons. It's a great place to experience the region's natural landscape.