Hike #1401
Wildwood Canyon Park to Verdugo Peak
May 1, 2019
Hike Leader: Steve Babcock
Meet at 9:00 am for start at 9:30 am
Please print your own hike descriptions and maps. This will avoid the inconvenience and save costs to the hike leader.
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1600 feet
Directions To The Trailhead: From Interstate 5 in Burbank take the Burbank Blvd exit. Northbound travelers take the Burbank east fork and turn right. Southbound take the Burbank exit and turn left. In a quarter mile use the middle lane to turn right on N 3rd St, then make a quick left on E Harvard Rd. In 1.5 miles turn right on Wildwood Canyon Rd and enter the park. The Vital Link Trail has four trailheads and we will be using the third. Look for a stone restroom building on the left with picnic tables and parking on the right.
The Hike: This hike is short but very steep. It begins behind the restrooms (on yellow track) and quickly climbs to a ridge. Those wishing a shorter easier loop can turn left here (on red track) and follow the trail to the park entrance and then walk back up the road to our cars. The rest of us turn right and continue climbing to a signed junction. Again, those wishing a shorter hike can turn right here (on green track) down to Wildwood Canyon Rd and back to the cars passing some tables along the way. This also makes a nice variation for the return trip. Tigers turn left at this junction and continue (on yellow track) climbing to the red-and-white radio tower looming above. At the top you will find a cement lounge chair where one person can rest and catch their breath. Those who are not completely exhausted at this point can make their way to the Verdugo Motorway, turn right, and in about a mile reach Verdugo Peak which at 3100 feet is the high point of the range. Unfortunately this high point is fenced off to protect a building full of electronic equipment, but the views are still outstanding if the day is clear. Return the way you came.
Refreshments will be served at the tables near the parking area.Google Earth Photo - Wildwood to Verdugo
2019-03-24
