Tongva Peak and Mount Thom via the Verdugo Crest loop

The trailhead for this loop is located at Brand Park in Glendale. You can find parking available at the park. For those using public transport, several bus lines serve the area around Brand Park, making it accessible without a car.

Yes, this loop is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash as per local regulations and that you carry enough water for both yourself and your pet, especially given the challenging nature of the trail.

The best times to hike this loop are during the cooler months, from late fall through spring. Summer can be very hot with little shade. In spring and early summer, you might also catch wildflowers like lupines, sage, and California poppies blooming along the trail.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail in the Verdugo Mountains. The trail starts from Brand Park, which is a public park.

The terrain is challenging, featuring both wide dirt service roads and narrower, potentially slippery, firebreak sections. Expect significant and steep inclines, particularly on the section leading to Mount Thom, which some describe as like 'stair climbing a downtown skyscraper'. The landscape is primarily chaparral and sage-covered slopes with very few trees.

You can expect beautiful, panoramic views that become increasingly impressive as you gain elevation. From various points, you'll see vistas of the San Fernando and Crescenta Valleys, Glendale, Burbank, and even the San Gabriel Mountains. Key viewpoints include Top of Switchbacks — Overlook, Mount Thom Viewpoint, and Seven Trees Overlook.

Starting from Brand Park, you can explore historical buildings and a Japanese teahouse. Along the trail, you'll pass by the Brand Debris Basin. The summits of Tongva Peak and Mount Thom offer expansive views, though the peaks themselves have communication towers.

Yes, the route utilizes and intersects with several official trails. You'll hike sections of the Verdugo Motorway, Brand Motorway, Verdugo Crest Trail, Las Flores Motorway, Brand Gravesite Trail, Bamboo Ruins Trail, and Beaudry South Motorway.

This loop is generally considered difficult due to its significant elevation gain and steep inclines, making it more suitable for experienced hikers. It is not recommended for beginners or families with young children looking for an easy outing. For a less intense experience with impressive views, consider a lower loop to an overlook with benches, which offers a strong moderate hike without the full climb to the summits.

Given the strenuous nature and exposure, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, and snacks. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the steep ascents and descents. There are restrooms and water available at Brand Park at the trailhead.

The estimated duration for this 6.9 km (4.3 miles) loop is around 2 hours and 43 minutes. However, due to the significant elevation gain and challenging terrain, it's wise to allocate at least 3-4 hours, especially if you plan to take breaks, enjoy the views, or are hiking at a more leisurely pace.