Why This Is Glendale’s Exclusive Hiking Trail With Astonishing Views

Unlike Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park, this public trail is less crowded and will provide you with unbelievable 360-degree views of Pasadena, Downtown LA, Griffith Park, Studio City, and even ocean views. The Brand Library Loop (also known as Brand Motorway or Seven Trees Trail) reveals much of the Verdugo Mountain Range, also known as Burbank Hills. 

If you’re a native or a passing visitor in Los Angeles, you might want to check out this hidden gem. I recently discovered this beautiful hiking trail while doing yoga at Brand Park nearby. Once you’re there, you’ll find ample parking and much to do after your exercise.

Great For:

HikingMountain BikingDog-Friendly
Easy ParkingFamily-FriendlyPicnics
PhotographyWildlifeNo Crowds

Distance: 7.6 miles (Loop Route)

Elevation: 2,371 ft

Parking Address:

Brand Library Parking Lot

1601 W Mountain St, Glendale, CA 91201

Starting Point:

From the parking lot, walk upwards towards the statue on the left of the white buildings. To your right, you will see a trail entrance.

When you walk the first half-mile, it goes up above 500 feet to a plateau. You’ll see benches, a park map, and views of Griffith Park and Downtown LA. Next, you’ll reach the 1-mile climb to some radio towers. This portion is pretty steep and there is barely any shade there, so make sure to bring plenty of water, sun block, or my favorite, a UV umbrella with you to protect from the sun. When you are finally at the top, you will see the Beaudry South Motorway. Turn left and follow the road north 0.6 miles to the first radio tower. At this point, you’ll discover several various routes and roadways that you can follow while on the mountain. There is some shade along this path and as you walk north for a ½ mile on Beaudry South MTWY, you will see the KROQ radio tower. Yup, if you have that old school handheld radio with you, be sure to tune in to 106.7 FM for the latest and greatest alternative pop and indie rock music while on your journey. 

After passing the tower, you’re going to continue onto the Verdugo Motorway. Follow the road for one mile until you reach a 3-way intersection. You’ll see a park bench and yellow road sign. Go along the dirt fire road marked Brand Park Motorway and that will lead you to the end of your adventure. It is made up of switchbacks going down to about 2,000 feet which is around 3.5 miles. This route will then lead you back to the Brand Library parking lot and to your car.

Be sure to check out the surrounding areas afterwards. There’s so much to see and do so you want to take advantage of this place while you’re there. If open, visit the Brand Library and Art Center with your family or friends. Wind down and stretch at the Brand Park and play a little baseball or soccer. Or chill at the Doctors House & Gazebo and Japanese Tea House which is a beautiful event venue and yoga spot.

What do you think about this trail? Was it easy for you? Check out the Alta Vincente Trail in Palos Verdes for ocean views!

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