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Located in the Verdugo Mountains, above Burbank, is one of my family’s favorite trail, called the Stough Canyon Hike.. Many people don’t know about this fantastic trail.  You won’t find tons of people here, like you do at Runyon Canyon in Hollywood.  It’s a little bit away from the Hollywood hills and lesser known. You’ll find mostly locals on this hike.  I consider this area one of LA’s hidden gem.

 

 

Stough Canyon offers some amazing views of the San Fernando Valley.  You can see downtown Los Angeles too. There’s also a nature center at the bottom of the canyon, where kids of all ages stop by to learn about the wildlife in the area. Many activities are offered at the nature center

 

 

There is 6.8 miles worth of trails for you to hike and mountain bike around on. There’s also a Loop trail, which is 2.4 miles and is considered a great family hike. There are some benches donated by the Burbank Rotary Club to rest on, up and down the trail.

 

 

You’ll start at the bottom of the canyon, by the nature center, and begin on a fire road, which is the trail.  The elevation gain is a quick 1000 ft.  It’s a good steady climb, so you’ll get a good work out.

At about a quarter mile up, you’ll see a few of the benches.  You’ll continue on until you see a split in the road.. To the right is the continuation of the fire road.  To the left is the beginning of a narrow and more strenuous uphill trail.  Both trails meet up at the same point. There are spots where you can branch off and explore more, as well.

 

 

Stough Canyon is a very dog friendly area.  However, you need to watch for mountain bikers.  This trail extends to La Tuna Canyon Road on the north side of the mountain and is a popular mountain bike riding path.  If you have your dog off the leash, be sure to keep them close by to you.

By the way, did you notice my dog, Holly, carrying a Go Pro Camera?  We’ve been testing it out and I’ll share with you my thoughts about this camera soon!

 

 

There are different directions to go on this trail, which makes this hiking area very enjoyable.  It never really feels overcrowded, because of that. Even during the weekends and holidays, it does’t feel too busy.

 

 

Directions –  Located at 2300 Walnut Avenue, at The Stough Canyon Nature Center.  From the I-5 Freeway, take Olive Avenue exit and head northwest to Sunset Canyon Drive.  Turn left on Sunset Canyon and continue to Walnut Avenue.  Make a right on Walnut Avenue.  Follow for 1.1 miles past the Starlight Amphitheater and DeBell Municipal Golf Course until you reach the nature center’s parking lot.  The Trailhead is to the left of the building. Enjoy!