LA Hiking｜Scenic Views on Glendale Peak Trail 🥾🌄

🌟 Let’s start with the conclusion: This trail is absolutely worth it! I recommend starting about two hours before sunset—perfect for catching golden hour views of the sunset, the LA skyline, and Griffith Observatory while avoiding harsh sun and that notorious LA smog. 😎 📌 Glendale Peak Trailhead: 2715 N Vermont Canyon Rd Free parking and street parking available near the trailhead. 🥾 The trail is 3.6 miles long; with stops for views, it took us about two hours total. Although AllTrails labels it “Moderate,” the LA sun and three steep climbs bumped it up a notch in my book ☀️ Most of the path is dirt, over half is uphill, and there’s very little shade. But the views make it all worth it! From the start, you can see downtown LA and Griffith Observatory in the distance, plus a lush golf course right below. As you climb higher, the vista opens up—you’ll see all of Burbank on the other side of the mountain. Looking down, I even spotted the trail behind the Hollywood Sign that I hiked last time! Further along, you’ll reach the hills behind Griffith—my first time seeing the observatory from this angle, with the city sprawled behind it. A unique perspective! Note: Those stunning photographer shots of Griffith from above are probably taken from trails starting near the observatory, not this one. ☁️ We started around 9 AM—the morning breeze was cool, and we finished before the heat kicked in. Overall, a rewarding city hike with a bit of challenge, and every pause offers a beautiful view. Too bad summer brings intense heat and heavier smog, which really lowers visibility toward downtown 😭 🏞 Griffith Park has tons of trail options—you can choose based on fitness level, scenery preference, and starting point. Many trails cross and overlap, but signage isn’t always clear, so download an offline map to avoid wrong turns! ⚠️ Reminder: Summer hiking means sunscreen and plenty of water are essential. Two of us brought 1.5 liters and still ran a bit short! Have you hiked Glendale Peak Trail? What’s your favorite Griffith Park route? Share your experience below! 👇🌿 #LosAngeles #LAWeekends #LAFun #WeekendGetaway #GriffithObservatory #LATravel #NearLA #DowntownLA #LA #LAHiking #ScenicTrails #SunsetHikes #CityViews #NatureInLA #HikeLA #TrailVibes