The best walks and hikes around Glendale
4.7
(1104)
13,780
hikers
28
hikes
Hiking in Glendale, CA, offers access to the rugged Verdugo Mountains and the San Rafael Hills. The area's terrain is characterized by chaparral-covered slopes, fire roads, and single-track trails that provide views over the Los Angeles basin. Key hiking hubs include Brand Park and Deukmejian Wilderness Park, which serve as gateways to the mountain trail networks.
Best hiking trails around Glendale
- The most popular hiking route is Tongva Peak via the Beaudry Motorway loop — Verdugo Mountains, a 6.7 mile (10.9 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This route follows a fire road with steady inclines to the peak.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Tongva Peak and Mount Thom via the Verdugo Crest loop — Brand Park, a moderate 4.3 mile (6.9 km) path. The trail involves a steep climb from Brand Park to the ridgeline.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Scholl Canyon Fire Road (Valle Vista Motorway) loop — Glendale, a 4.1 mile (6.6 km) trail leading through the San Rafael Hills, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking around Glendale is defined by steep mountain fire roads, chaparral-lined canyons, and ridgelines with city views. The trail network provides options for various fitness levels, from easier loops to challenging ascents.
- The routes in Glendale are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 350 reviews. More than 6,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Glendale's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.0
(1)
25
hikers
10.8km
03:48
660m
470m
Embark on the Mount Thom and Tongva Peak Loop, a moderate hike spanning 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2159 feet (658 metres). This route typically takes around 3 hours and 48 minutes to complete. You'll traverse wide dirt service roads and encounter some steep, rugged ascents through chaparral and sage-covered slopes. The journey offers expansive panoramic vistas of downtown Los Angeles, Burbank, and Glendale. Be sure to pause at the dedicated scenic overlook at Tongva Peak for some of the best views along the way. In spring, the trail bursts with wildflowers like lupines and California poppies, adding vibrant color to your experience.
Accessing the Mount Thom and Tongva Peak Loop is straightforward, with the trailhead conveniently located off Beaudry Boulevard in Glendale. You won't need to worry about permits or fees to enjoy this hike. It's a great option for a morning or afternoon outing, given its duration. If you plan to bring your canine companion, remember that dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash throughout the trail. This makes it a flexible choice for many hikers.
This loop is nestled within the Verdugo Mountains Open Space Preserve, offering a true escape into nature close to the city. The chaparral and sage-covered landscape provides a distinct Southern California ecosystem to explore. Its prominent peaks, Mount Thom and Tongva Peak, are key features of the Verdugo Mountains. The trail's consistent elevation gain makes it a rewarding workout with spectacular views as your payoff. It stands out as a prime location for panoramic cityscapes and natural beauty.
6
hikers
5.22km
01:32
180m
90m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure at Cherry Canyon Park and Lookout Tower, a route spanning 3.2 miles (5.2 km) with an elevation gain of 593 feet (181 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 1 hour and 32 minutes. The trail winds through varied terrain, from wide dirt fire roads to narrower single-track paths, offering a pleasant experience as you make your way towards the prominent Lookout Tower, also known as the Cerro Negro fire tower. This hike provides a rewarding outdoor experience for all skill levels, leading you through chaparral and oak trees.
When planning your visit, remember that Cherry Canyon Park is dog-friendly, but your canine companion must remain on a leash at all times. It is wise to bring plenty of water and sunblock, especially during warmer months, as many sections of the trail offer limited shade. There are no restrooms directly on the trails, so plan accordingly before you start your hike. This ensures you have a comfortable and prepared outing.
The highlight of this route is undoubtedly reaching the Lookout Tower and the Ultimate Destination Vista Point, which provide expansive panoramic views. From these elevated spots, you can clearly see the San Gabriel Valley, the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, and even the distant skyline of Downtown Los Angeles. It is a fantastic place to pause, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the natural sounds, including local birdsong, making it a notable destination in the region for its accessible vistas.
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3
hikers
2.36km
00:40
20m
100m
Hike the easy 1.5-mile Catalina Verdugo Trail in the San Rafael Hills, offering scenic views over Glendale and historical insights.
3
hikers
23.1km
07:49
1,220m
1,000m
Hike the difficult 14.4-mile Verdugo Crest and Beaudry Motorway Loop for panoramic views and a challenging workout in the Verdugo Mountains.
1
hikers
4.38km
01:14
80m
120m
Hike the easy 2.7-mile Scholl Canyon and Valle Vista Loop for panoramic views of Los Angeles, the Verdugo and San Gabriel Mountains.
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Other adventures around Glendale
Tips from the Community
A solid entry to the Verdugo Mountains with rewarding climbs and views, but watch the start—there are ruts and leftover metal pieces on the trail. Stay alert and pick your line carefully to avoid punctures or spills before the smoother sections begin.
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Verdugo Peak stands at 1835 feet and is a remote feeling summit off of the Verdugo Motorway. This sunny summit grants you fantastic views across the Verdugo Mountains and the valley below. In the spring there are often wildflowers along the motorway.
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Great view of Downtown LA. The climb up into the hills to reach the viewpoint is challenging, but it is worth the effort for the excellent vistas.
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This overlook, very close to the tower on Cerro Negro, offers one of the best views in the area. Soak in the great vistas towards Glendale, Los Angeles and the Verdugo Mountains.
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a nice intermediate hike perfect for newbies. Great views of LA.
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You can approach this 3,124-foot peak from several directions, but the multi-use Verdugo Motorway is the most common uphill option.
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This overlook, very close to the tower on Cerro Negro, offers one of the best views in the area. Soak in the great vistas towards Glendale, Los Angeles and the Verdugo Mountains.
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This overlook, very close to the tower on Cerro Negro, offers one of the best views in the area. Soak in the great vistas towards Glendale, Los Angeles and the Verdugo Mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in 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.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
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.
What are the best places to park for hiking in Glendale?
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.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Glendale?
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.
What kind of views can I expect on Glendale trails?
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.
How difficult are the hikes in the Verdugo Mountains?
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.
What is the best time of year to hike in Glendale?
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.
Are there any challenging, long-distance hikes available?
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.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Glendale?
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.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
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.
What is Deukmejian Wilderness Park like for hiking?
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.
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