Verdugo Mountains
California State Park

Verdugo Mountains

Verdugo Motorway, Glendale, California 91042
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Biking

🌤 Weather at Verdugo Mountains by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
47–81 °F57–96 °F49–91 °F44–65 °F

Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Newhall 5NW, 22 mi away, elevation 1,765 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

🏆 LA Urban Mountain — Mountain open space within the Los Angeles city limits

Verdugo Mountains is a state park property preserving mountain open space in the Verdugo Mountains — a small but significant range entirely surrounded by urban Los Angeles (Glendale, Burbank, and La Cañada Flintridge). The mountains rise to 3,126 feet and provide hiking, mountain biking, and sweeping views of the LA Basin, San Gabriel Mountains, and Pacific Ocean on clear days.

Visitor Information

DetailInformation
LocationGlendale/Burbank, CA (Los Angeles)
Summit3,126 feet
Entry FeeFree
ViewsLA Basin, San Gabriels, Pacific Ocean

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there trails?

Multiple fire roads and trails climb the Verdugo Mountains, offering accessible to strenuous hikes. The summit provides 360-degree views from downtown LA to the San Gabriel Mountains.

Do mountain lions live near LA?

Yes — an estimated 10-15 mountain lions inhabit the mountains surrounding Los Angeles. The famous P-22 lived in Griffith Park for a decade — just miles from Hollywood. California mountain lions are a protected species. Wildlife crossings (like the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over the 101 Freeway) are being built to connect isolated populations.

Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Los Angeles State Historic Park (a short drive away) and Los Encinos State Historic Park (a short drive away).

⛰️ Visit Verdugo Mountains

Urban mountain island — 3,126-foot summit with LA Basin panoramas.

📍 CA State Parks

About Verdugo Mountains

Verdugo Mountains is an open space preserve in the hills between Burbank, Glendale, and La Cañada Flintridge in the Los Angeles metro area. The mountains rise to 3,126 feet and offer expansive views of the Los Angeles Basin, San Fernando Valley, and the San Gabriel Mountains. A valuable natural island in the urban sea.

Things to Do

Hiking and mountain biking on fire roads and trails, with panoramic city views as reward. The Verdugo Peak trail offers one of the best viewpoints in the LA area. Wildflowers in spring after wet winters. Popular with local hikers and trail runners.

Insider Tips

Urban wilderness: The Verdugo Mountains rise between Glendale, Burbank, and La Cañada — an island of wildland surrounded by 2 million people. Pro tip: The summit trail offers 360° views — from the Pacific Ocean to the San Gabriel Mountains to downtown LA. Wildlife: Mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, and mule deer live in these mountains despite being surrounded by urbanization.

Best Time to Visit

Winter/spring: Cool weather and clear visibility (snow on San Gabriels). Fall: Warm but clear. Summer: Hot — hike early morning only. After rain: Best air quality and furthest views.

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to the state parks of the United States. Our editorial team compiles and reviews each park profile from official state park agency sources and other primary references, and follows a published editorial and review methodology (see /editorial-review-methodology/). We update profiles and correct errors on an ongoing basis.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Verdugo Mountains

Pets allowed? statewide rule
Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly.
Leash rule statewide rule
Maximum 6-foot leash at all times; dogs may not be left unattended.
Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
Dogs are prohibited on most state beaches; only beaches specifically designated as dog-allowed permit them (varies by park).
Cabins & lodging statewide rule
Pets are generally not allowed in buildings or cabins; overnight campers must keep dogs inside a tent or vehicle at night.
Statewide exceptions statewide rule
Designated dog-friendly trails and beaches vary park by park; misrepresenting a pet as a service animal is a misdemeanor.

Are dogs allowed at Verdugo Mountains?
Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.

Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ca.gov. More: California state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared

Last updated: May 17, 2026

Park Location

Verdugo Motorway, Glendale, California 91042

Plan your gear for Verdugo Mountains

From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities: