The best walks and hikes around Burbank

The Vital Link and Stough Canyon Loop offers a diverse hiking experience, blending challenging ascents with expansive views across the San Fernando Valley and the Santa Monica Mountains. You'll navigate a steep singletrack on the Vital Link Trail, where the terrain can be unstable with slippery decomposing granite, before transitioning to the more forgiving, wide trails of Stough Canyon, which feature ingenious stonework designed to manage rainwater. Keep an eye out for gnarled trees and unusual plants that give parts of the landscape an almost alien feel, especially as you gain elevation and the panoramic vistas unfold.

To tackle this 7.0-mile (11.2 km) hike with 1948 feet (594 metres) of elevation gain, plan for about 3 hours and 51 minutes on the trail. Many hikers begin their journey at the Stough Canyon Nature Center, which provides a convenient starting point and parking. While the overall difficulty is moderate, the Vital Link section is quite strenuous, so bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Starting early in the morning is advisable to avoid the midday sun and to secure parking, as this is one of the popular trails routes in the area.

This loop is notable for its dramatic change in character, from the

The Stough Canyon Loop Trail offers a delightful escape into the Verdugo Mountains, providing expansive views over the San Fernando Valley and beyond. You'll traverse well-maintained paths of packed earth and loose gravel, with some moderate inclines that give you a good stretch without being overly strenuous. Look for native chaparral and wildflowers along the way, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like birds and lizards. The highlight is undoubtedly "The View Point," which delivers breathtaking vistas of Burbank, Glendale, and even downtown Los Angeles.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail begins at the Stough Canyon Nature Center, where parking is available. While generally less crowded than other area trails, an early start is always recommended to secure a spot and enjoy the cooler morning air. This easy 1.0-mile (1.7 km) hike with 252 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain typically takes around 31 minutes, making it a perfect quick outing.

Beyond the natural beauty, the Stough Canyon Loop Trail also holds a unique historical element with the ruins of an abandoned Boy Scout camp along the route. This adds an interesting layer to your hike, blending natural scenery with a touch of local history. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a rewarding, easy hike with great views and a bit of character.

The Stough Canyon Trail to Verdugo Peak offers a rewarding journey through the Verdugo Mountains, starting with a steep climb from the Stough Canyon Nature Center. As you ascend the dirt and gravel fire road, the landscape transforms, revealing expansive views of the San Fernando Valley, the Los Angeles skyline, and the majestic San Gabriel Mountains. You'll pass by the ruins of an old youth camp and eventually reach Verdugo Peak, where the panoramic vistas are truly spectacular, making the moderate 4.1-mile (6.7 km) hike with 1559 feet (475 metres) of elevation gain well worth the effort.

Planning your visit to this popular trail means preparing for a workout; the initial section is particularly strenuous. The route is an out-and-back, typically taking around 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. Always carry ample water, especially during warmer months, and wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain, which can include sandy and slippery patches. Parking is available at the Stough Canyon Nature Center, which serves as the main access point for this trail.

This trail is part of the larger Verdugo Mountainway Trail System, connecting various communities across the Verdugo Mountains. Beyond the stunning viewpoints, you might spot local wildlife or observe passenger jets taking off from Bob Hope Airport in the distance. The Stough Canyon Nature Center itself is a hub for outdoor activities, offering various programs and acting as a gateway to this moderately challenging yet highly scenic hiking experience.

The Verdugo Peak via Skyline Motorway trail offers a unique blend of urban proximity and rugged terrain, making it a standout in the Verdugo Mountains. You'll navigate an old fire road that has largely reverted to a single-track path, with uneven ground and steep sections, including a notable washed-out area. As you climb, the chaparral-lined route reveals increasingly expansive views over downtown Los Angeles, Glendale, and the San Gabriel Mountains, culminating in panoramic 360-degree vistas from higher points.

This moderate hike packs a punch with 2016 feet (614 metres) of elevation gain over 4.0 miles (6.4 km), typically taking around 2 hours and 24 minutes. Given the limited shade, it's best tackled during cooler months. The trailhead can be a bit tricky to find, but once you're on your way, no permits or fees are required, and leashed dogs are welcome.

What sets this trail apart is its evolution from a motor route to a natural hiking path, providing a strenuous workout with constant, breathtaking skyline views. It serves as a key access point into the Verdugo Mountains, offering connections to other routes once you reach the broader Verdugo Fire Road. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean.