Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved.  Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability.  All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Oakmont Loop

• Location: Verdugo Mountains in northeastern Glendale.  From I-210, take La Crescenta Avenue south for about a mile.  You will pass Eilinita, one of the residential streets this hike visits.  Just after La Crescenta Avenue curves to the left, take a right on Oakmont View Drive.  Follow this winding residential street for about a mile to its end at Oakmont View Park.  Park in the lot and follow the signs to the beginning of the trail.  Parking is free.
• Agency: Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy/Verdugo Open Space
• Distance: 2.5 miles
• Elevation gain: 600 feet
• Suggested time: 1.5 hours
• Difficulty Rating: PG
• Best season: Year round; best in the late afternoon or evening
• USGS topo map: “Pasadena”
• More information: here
• Rating: 5

If you live in the San Fernando Valley, you might assume that you’d have to drive to the ocean or up into the mountains to get away from the summer heat.  But you’d be wrong.  While this loop might not be a great place to hike at noon when the temperature is 100 degrees, its location on a northeastern facing slope makes it a good afternoon or evening hike.

From the parking area, head north on the Edison fire road, taking in views of the San Gabriels.  You may notice an obscure trail braching off to the right; this is your return route.  Stay on the main trail, which briefly ascends and then switchbacks down into Engleheard Canyon, which is heavily shaded by oaks.  Barely away from civilization, this part of the trail gives a true sense of isolation.

The trail then exits the woods and briefly enters a residential area, on Eilinita Street.  Follow Eilinita and take a right on Emmanuel and follow it to the end.  From here, pick up the Edison dirt road which climbs 500 feet over the next 0.8 miles to get you back to your starting point.  The ascent is vigorous, but again the oaks provide some shade.  The trail switchbacks up the slope and enters a meadow before rejoining the fire road.  At the junction, take a left and retrace your steps to the parking area.