Barry PhilipsBurbank, California, is best known as a major center of the entertainment industry, but the city also offers easy access to some impressive Southern California hiking trails. Surrounded by the Verdugo Mountains and located next to Griffith Park, Burbank provides opportunities for everyone from casual walkers looking for a short outdoor escape to experienced hikers searching for steep climbs and panoramic mountain views.
The best hiking trails in Burbank combine scenic overlooks, rugged hills, wildlife, native vegetation and views across the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles. Some trails are short enough for a quick morning workout, while others can be extended into several-hour adventures.
If you’re planning a hiking trip in Burbank, these are some of the trails and routes worth considering.
Top Hiking Trails In Burbank
1. Vital Link Trail
The Vital Link Trail is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in Burbank. It runs through Wildwood Canyon Park and climbs toward the Verdugo Mountains, making it an excellent choice for hikers who want a serious uphill workout.
The route is approximately 3.8 miles and is generally considered difficult. The steep ascent is one of its defining characteristics, so hikers should be prepared for sustained climbing rather than a relaxed stroll.
One of the rewards is the scenery. As you gain elevation, you’ll get increasingly expansive views over Burbank and the surrounding Los Angeles area. The trail is also relatively exposed, meaning there isn’t much shade.
At the higher sections, hikers can find places to pause and enjoy the views. Because of the combination of steep terrain, sun exposure and elevation gain, starting early is particularly sensible during warmer periods.
The Vital Link Trail is ideal for experienced hikers, trail runners and anyone looking for a demanding workout close to the city. Current trail listings rank it among the top-rated Burbank-area hikes.
2. Wildwood Canyon Loop
For many visitors, Wildwood Canyon is one of the best places to experience hiking in Burbank without committing to a very long mountain adventure.
Wildwood Canyon Trailhead provides access to a network of trails through Wildwood Canyon Park. The popular Wildwood Canyon Loop is approximately 2 miles and is generally rated moderate.
The relatively short distance makes it attractive for hikers who don’t have an entire afternoon available. However, don’t confuse its short length with an effortless walk. Parts of the route can be steep, and the terrain can feel considerably more demanding during hot weather.
One of the biggest attractions is the scenery. From elevated sections, hikers can look across Burbank and toward the wider Los Angeles region.
Wildlife is another potential highlight. Depending on the season and conditions, hikers may encounter birds and other native wildlife. Rattlesnakes and coyotes are also known in the surrounding area, so staying aware of your surroundings is important.
If you’re searching for a moderate hiking trail in Burbank, Wildwood Canyon is an excellent place to start.
3. Stough Canyon Trail to Verdugo Peak
Stough Canyon Nature Center is one of the most useful starting points for exploring the Verdugo Mountains.
The Stough Canyon Trail to Verdugo Peak is a much longer adventure than the basic canyon walk. Current trail information puts the route at roughly 8.2 miles, with an estimated hiking time of more than four hours. It is generally rated moderate.
The route follows Stough Canyon before connecting with the Verdugo Mountain Motorway. Eventually, hikers can reach Verdugo Peak, which sits at approximately 3,126 feet.
The wide route makes navigation relatively straightforward compared with narrow, highly technical mountain trails. However, the length and elevation gain mean hikers should still prepare properly.
Shade is limited, so water, sunscreen, appropriate footwear and sun protection are especially important. The Burbank Parks and Recreation Department likewise recommends bringing water, sunscreen and appropriate clothing and shoes for hikes in the area.
For hikers who want a long Burbank hiking adventure with mountain views, this is one of the strongest options.
4. Scout Camp and Stough Canyon Loop
If the full trek to Verdugo Peak sounds too ambitious, consider the Scout Camp and Stough Canyon Loop.
The loop covers approximately 2.4 miles and is rated moderate. It offers an excellent compromise between a short neighborhood walk and a longer mountain hike.
The route provides views toward Griffith Park and the San Fernando Valley, while the elevation changes provide enough challenge to make the hike feel like a genuine outdoor workout.
Another attraction is the sunset scenery. The elevated sections can provide beautiful views as the sun drops across the Los Angeles landscape.
The trail does have steep sections, and hikers may encounter thorny vegetation. Wearing appropriate hiking clothing is therefore advisable.
Because temperatures can become uncomfortable on exposed Southern California trails, mornings and cooler days are generally more comfortable for hiking.
5. Vital Link and Stough Canyon Loop
For hikers who want to combine two popular Burbank trail systems, the Vital Link and Stough Canyon Loop is an excellent choice.
This route is approximately 5.9 miles and is classified as difficult. It combines the steep climb associated with Vital Link with the Stough Canyon area.
The major attraction is the combination of physical challenge and scenery. Instead of simply hiking up and returning along the same route, the loop allows you to experience different portions of the surrounding landscape.
The steep climb makes this a better option for people with some hiking experience. Beginners can certainly work toward completing it, but shorter routes such as Wildwood Canyon or Scout Camp and Stough Canyon may be more appropriate starting points.
If your goal is to find challenging hiking trails in Burbank, this route deserves serious consideration.
6. Wildwood Little Loop
Not every hiking adventure needs to take several hours.
The Wildwood Little Loop is useful for people who want to experience the Wildwood Canyon landscape without taking on one of the longer routes.
Shorter routes are particularly convenient for visitors who have limited time or families looking for an outdoor activity that doesn’t require an entire day.
Although the exact experience can vary depending on the route taken and trail conditions, Wildwood’s terrain means hikers should still expect some elevation changes.
It’s also a good option for returning hikers who want a shorter workout rather than another long-distance adventure.
7. Verdugo Peak
Verdugo Peak is one of the major objectives for hikers exploring the mountains north of Burbank.
Several routes can reach the peak, including approaches from Stough Canyon and other parts of the Verdugo trail network. The summit area is recognizable by radio infrastructure and offers elevated views of the surrounding region.
The appeal of Verdugo Peak is that the hike feels like a genuine mountain experience despite being close to an urban environment.
From higher elevations, hikers can appreciate just how dramatically the landscape changes from city streets to rugged hills.
However, the exposed nature of the trails means you shouldn’t underestimate the conditions. Carry sufficient water, protect yourself from the sun and plan your hike according to your fitness level.
8. Henry Cook Lookout
The Henry Cook Lookout Point is another worthwhile destination for people exploring the Burbank section of the Verdugo Mountains.
Lookout points are particularly attractive because they provide the reward hikers are often seeking: a place to stop, catch their breath and take in the landscape.
The Henry Cook Lookout area can be incorporated into longer adventures through the surrounding trail network. This makes it especially useful for hikers who prefer building their own route rather than following a single fixed loop.
The views are the main attraction, making it a good destination for photographers and anyone interested in seeing Burbank from above.
9. Burbank Peak and the Wisdom Tree
Although Burbank Peak is technically within Griffith Park in Los Angeles rather than Burbank city limits, its proximity to Burbank makes it one of the most popular nearby hiking destinations.
Burbank Peak sits along a ridge near Cahuenga Peak and is associated with the famous Wisdom Tree.
The route provides a very different hiking experience from the Verdugo Mountains. Instead of focusing exclusively on Burbank’s northern hills, hikers can explore the iconic Griffith Park landscape and enjoy views toward the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles.
The Wisdom Tree is also a popular photography destination, giving hikers an additional reason to make the climb.
For visitors searching for hikes near Burbank with famous Los Angeles landmarks, this is one of the most memorable choices.
Visit Burbank also identifies Burbank Peak and the Wisdom Tree among the notable hiking destinations in and around the city.
10. Hollywood Sign and Wisdom Tree Trail
For an even longer adventure, hikers can combine the Hollywood Sign area with the Wisdom Tree and surrounding Griffith Park trails.
The popular route is considerably longer than most Burbank-specific hikes, with one commonly listed version covering approximately 7.9 miles and rated difficult.
The attraction is obvious: few hiking experiences in the Los Angeles region combine mountain scenery with such recognizable landmarks.
The route includes rocky and steep sections and can be highly exposed to the sun. Hikers should therefore carry plenty of water and avoid treating it like an ordinary city walk.
For tourists visiting the Los Angeles area, this can be a particularly memorable way to combine exercise, photography and sightseeing.
11. La Tuna Canyon to Stough Canyon
Another option for experienced hikers is connecting La Tuna Canyon with the Stough Canyon area.
This type of route allows hikers to explore more of the Verdugo Mountains instead of limiting themselves to one canyon.
The surrounding trail network gives experienced hikers opportunities to create longer adventures, although route planning becomes increasingly important as the distance increases.
If you’re unfamiliar with the area, check current trail maps and conditions before starting. Mountain trails can change because of weather, vegetation, maintenance and other factors.
12. Old Skyline Motorway
The Old Skyline Motorway is another route worth considering for hikers interested in exploring the Verdugo Mountains.
Rather than feeling like a conventional city park trail, the motorway sections provide a broader mountain-road experience. They can be particularly appealing to hikers who prefer longer climbs and panoramic views.
The route can also be combined with other trails in the Verdugo network, allowing hikers to customize their distance and difficulty.
Because many of these mountain routes are exposed, hikers should plan around the weather and carry adequate water.
Best Time to Go Hiking in Burbank
Southern California’s warm climate means hiking conditions can change significantly throughout the day.
Early morning is often a comfortable choice, particularly during warmer months. Starting early can reduce exposure to intense midday heat and may provide better conditions for longer climbs.
Spring can be especially attractive because temperatures are often more comfortable and vegetation can be greener following seasonal rainfall. Fall can also provide pleasant hiking conditions.
Summer hikers should take heat seriously. Many Burbank trails have limited shade, and long uphill climbs can become strenuous.
Before heading out, check the current weather and any park or trail notices.
What to Bring on a Burbank Hike
Even relatively short hikes deserve basic preparation.
Bring enough drinking water for the distance and conditions, particularly because many of the popular Burbank mountain trails have limited shade.
Other useful items include:
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat or other sun protection
- Lightweight clothing
- Phone with sufficient battery
- Small first-aid kit
- Snacks for longer hikes
- Trekking poles for steep routes
- Trail map or navigation app
The City of Burbank specifically recommends water, sunscreen, appropriate clothing and suitable shoes for hikes around Stough Canyon.
Hiking Safety in Burbank
Burbank’s hiking trails are close to a major metropolitan area, but that doesn’t mean they’re free of wilderness hazards.
Stay on established trails whenever possible and pay attention to changing terrain. Be especially careful on steep or rocky sections.
Wildlife is another consideration. Rattlesnakes have been reported in the surrounding trail areas, particularly during warmer conditions. Give wildlife plenty of space and never attempt to handle or approach wild animals.
Heat is perhaps one of the biggest practical concerns. Carry water and avoid starting a long exposed hike during the hottest part of the day.
If you’re hiking alone, let someone know where you’re going and approximately when you expect to return.
Families should also choose trails according to the abilities of everyone in the group. The City of Burbank notes that adults should accompany children under 12 on its organized hikes, and strollers are not recommended on hikes.
Why Burbank Is Great for Hiking
One of Burbank’s biggest advantages is accessibility.
You don’t have to drive deep into the mountains to find a challenging climb. The Verdugo Mountains rise directly alongside the city, creating opportunities for hiking, trail running and outdoor recreation within a relatively short distance of developed neighborhoods.
Local hikers also frequently highlight Stough Canyon and Wildwood Canyon as favorite options. Recent community discussion has particularly praised Stough Canyon, Wildwood Canyon and the Vital Link for people looking for challenging local workouts.
The combination of accessibility, elevation and views makes Burbank particularly attractive to people who want to fit hiking into a busy schedule.
Comparison Table: Top Hiking Trails in Burbank
| Hiking Trail | Approx. Distance | Difficulty | Best For | Main Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vital Link Trail | 3.8 miles | Hard | Experienced hikers | Steep climb and views |
| Wildwood Canyon Loop | 2.0 miles | Moderate | Weekend hikers | Burbank and LA views |
| Stough Canyon to Verdugo Peak | 8.2 miles | Moderate | Long-distance hikers | Verdugo Peak |
| Scout Camp & Stough Canyon Loop | 2.4 miles | Moderate | Short workouts | Valley views |
| Vital Link & Stough Canyon Loop | 5.9 miles | Hard | Fitness hikers | Challenging loop |
| Wildwood Little Loop | Short | Easy–Moderate | Casual hikers | Quick outdoor escape |
| Verdugo Peak | Varies | Moderate–Hard | Summit seekers | Mountain summit |
| Henry Cook Lookout | Varies | Moderate | View seekers | Scenic overlook |
| Burbank Peak | Varies | Moderate | Photographers | Wisdom Tree |
| Hollywood Sign & Wisdom Tree | 7.9 miles | Hard | Adventurous visitors | Iconic LA landmarks |
Distances and difficulty can vary depending on the specific route, trail connections and conditions.
Related
Conclusion
Burbank may be famous for film studios, television production and its urban attractions, but its hiking opportunities are a major part of the city’s outdoor appeal. From the relatively short Wildwood Canyon Loop to the demanding Vital Link Trail and long journey toward Verdugo Peak, there is a route for a wide range of hiking abilities.
For beginners and casual hikers, Wildwood Canyon Loop and Scout Camp and Stough Canyon Loop are excellent places to start. Hikers seeking a serious workout can consider Vital Link Trail or the Vital Link and Stough Canyon Loop. For those wanting a longer mountain adventure, Stough Canyon to Verdugo Peak offers a rewarding challenge.
And if you’re willing to venture just beyond Burbank’s official boundaries, Burbank Peak, the Wisdom Tree and the Hollywood Sign area add some of Los Angeles’ most recognizable landmarks to the hiking experience.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend workout or a visitor searching for the best hiking trails in Burbank, the Verdugo Mountains and surrounding trail systems provide plenty of opportunities to get outside, exercise and enjoy spectacular Southern California scenery.