The Verdugo Mountains, often overshadowed by their bigger neighbors, offer great hiking and trails right in the middle of LA. This hike on the popular Vital Link Trail takes you to the highest point in the range, Verdugo Peak. The Vital Link Trail is a tough one, but you're rewarded along the way with panoramic views from the ocean to the San Gabriels. And the Burbank trailhead makes it convenient to most of LA.
In this Guide:
Video & Turn by Turn Vital Link Trail Directions
How to Get to the Vital Link Trail
Everything You Need to Know To Prepare for the Hike
The hike starts at Burbank's Wildwood Canyon Park. There are several trails in the park, which can get confusing, so make sure you pay attention to the starting directions below. There is plenty of free parking at the hike.
There are a few use-trails in the park that all lead to the Vital Link Trail. These hike directions use the trailhead described here.
The park has port-a-potties and water fountains (that don't always work). I'd take care of your business and fill up with water before you get here.
Gear for the Hike
The main thing to be aware of is the lack of shade and the heat. If you are doing this hike when it's hot out, use sun protection and bring plenty of water. I usually bring 2L. The trail is steep and sandy, so good hiking footwear and trekking poles will help on the steeper slope.
Gear That I Love Right Now
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
The trails to Verdugo Peak are not well marked, but are relatively easy to follow. The Vital Link Trail has lots of cut-offs, and it can be hard to know what is a trail cut-off and which is a trail junction. If you have a GPS, loading the GPX file helps.
If you look at the OSM map, you'll see lots of trails that (as of me writing this) are not there. They might have been at one point, or are small use trails, but in general there is a lot in the OSM map that's not hike-able.
FYI "Verdugo" means executioner or hangman in Spanish.
If you go right, there is a dead end at some communications equipment, but there's also a hidden, shady bench. I marked the waypoint in the GPX file. It's a nice place to catch your breath before continuing.
Okay, back to the directions to Verdugo Peak.
From here you just turn around and go back the way you came!
Need More Info?
Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.
When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.