Beaudry Bountiful

There are no cars allowed on Beaudry Loop, but for reasons unknown its trails are called motorways. But one thing we know for sure: This 6-miler will take you on a wild ride. You’ll be climbing 1,500 feet up the southern Verdugos along a chaparral-lined trail with gorgeous mountain and urban vistas every step of the way.

Start your engines on a residential street in Glendale. Pass the gate and walk a half-mile past the dam until you reach the junction of Beaudry North and Beaudry South Motorways, marked by a yellow metal sign. Heading in either direction is fine, but locals agree the northern motorway offers a gentler ascent. 

The wide dirt road twists up along the ridgeline at a steady incline, offering lovely views of the Crescenta Valley and the San Gabriel Mountains. After passing a rusted water tower, make a sharp left on the trail towards the Verdugo Motorway to find a striking radio tower locked behind a fence. Take the small elevated path along the fence’s edge to reach the 2,656-foot Tongva Peak. Here you’ll discover a concrete bench and a serene lookout point of Burbank, Griffith Park, and downtown Los Angeles.

After reaching the second radio tower at Mount Thom, the road splits. Keep left to descend down Beaudry South to complete the loop. 

TIP: This unshaded trail is best enjoyed in the winter or spring months. Avoid hiking this trail on extremely hot days, or go early in the morning to beat the heat. Regardless of season, we recommend plenty of water and sunscreen.

From CA-2 in Glendale, exit onto Mountain St. and head west. Turn right onto N. Verdugo Rd., and then veer left onto Cañada Blvd. Make lefts onto Country Club Dr. and then Beaudry Blvd. Find the trailhead on the left at the intersection of Beaudry Blvd. and Beaudry Terr. Street parking only. Dog friendly.

Story and photos by Yvonne Pasquini, @yvonne_pasquini