Outbound Collective logo

Vital Link Trail

Burbank, California

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

3.72 miles

Elevation Gain

1775 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jared Orlando

The Vital Link Trail in Wildwood Canyon Park is nested above the DeBell Golf Course in Burbank, CA, and provides a rigorous hike with sweeping views that's close to civilization.

From I-5, take the Burbank Blvd exit. Drive north on Burbank Blvd. and take a right on N 3rd. Left on E Harvard. Right on Wildwood Canyon after 1.5 miles.

There are a few ways you can begin your hike: from the parking lot, the entrance will be to the left past the gate. Here you were have a steep climb for a half mile that will then connect to the Vital Link Trail. Another is driving through the gate on Wildwood Canyon Road where you can park and start the hike with a wide service road.

The Vital Link Trail at Wildwood Canyon Park is an athletic one. In a mile and a half, you will have ascended 1,275ft. For this reason, it may not be exactly the go-to spot for families, but it is perfect for a nature-seeker who also wants to get a workout in. Roundtrip the hike can be completed in 2 hours. During this hike you will be treated to panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley, with downtown Los Angeles peaking out in the distance. Be prepared for a no-shade hike with plenty of water and sunblock, perhaps a hat. The only seating I found was midway up. There is a picnic table and beautiful views. Suggestion: bring a book, sit here and soak it all in.

There is no permit needed, and no payment to park, which is great and it's a steep trail, so do some stretches before hand. 

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Chillin
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildflowers

Vital Link Trail Reviews

One of my favorite trails right in my backyard. It’s not a long hike but it’s a steady to intense elevation gain in the short miles. Perfect for that leg and booty workout. There’s a nice relaxing bench at the top to relax on and enjoy the serenity of the top. The trail has no shade and trekking poles will be helpful coming back down.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Wildwood Canyon Loop

Old Youth Camp Loop

Verdugo Crest Trail

Brand Library Loop

Verdugo Peak via Hostetter Fire Road

Verdugo's North Ridge Trail