The diverse terrain, natural exuberance, and perfect year-round weather makes Burbank’s Stough Canyon Hiking Trail a must-see experience. Bringing a feeling that you are secluded from the rest of the world with nothing else in sight but nature. Birds chirp here and there, joining the constant noise of crisp cool air, brushing alongside the bushes and trees lingering. Brown leaves cover the grounds in autumn and naked trees stand tall in the winter. Buildings, roads, and cars are nowhere in sight as you climb up the mountain. It's a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life you won't forget.

As mentioned on burbankinfocus.org, Canyon Park originated in 1916 as a gift to the city of over 128 acres to be used exclusively as public parkland from real estate developer Oliver J. Stough. Improvement of the upper portion, known as “Inspiration Point,” began in 1934 and, by 1950, included facilities for picnics and camping as well as a wading pool. They also mention that many of these facilities were removed in 1958 when the city appropriated additional surrounding land and construction of the nearby DeBell golf course commenced. ​The hike begins about 4 miles up from Burbank's Debell Golf Course. Driving up from the golf course, a parking lot appears to peak over the hill. People are parking their cars, and few are seen leaving the trail. Smiles, laughter, and very red faces are seen as the fellow folks depart from their hike. One then takes a minute to mentally prepare themself. For no reason other than detaching from all the chaos the mind and thoughts go through. From then on, it's just the one dirt path that lies in front (furry friends are welcome too… of course).

​From just the first couple of steps up the hill, one will start to experience nature at its finest. Squirrels climbing up and down trees the second you get too close. Continuing to walk through this majestic journey, nature will invite you in. The birds bring a melody and a symphony all together rather than a simple chirp you once heard. Low tones, high tones, and a pitch that brings music to your ears as you make your way up the mountain. You'll surely begin to experience relaxation and tranquility at its finest. Simply- living in the beautiful moment that the world has to offer. The plethora of flowers and plants bright up your eyes as all different shades of yellows, greens, and orange surround you. 'Stop and smell the roses' ' is a saying that most certainly applies at Stough Canyon Hiking trail. While they may not be roses at this trail, the different types of plants around you will allow you to breathe in a wide range of different scents. 

The scents combine to give you that crisp fresh air you long for when being outdoors. You are experiencing a new type of air that just hits different, that I am sure is unlike your local city air. As you make your way up the hill, you will start to see more dirt and less plants. That is how you will know when you're almost making your way to the top. Close to the finishing line, it won't feel daunting since you will start to see 360-degree views of the Valley. While still enjoying nature, you get a new type of scenery you are not used to seeing from down below. Making your way to the top of the mountain, any feeling other than pure excitement withers away. It is as if you are standing on top of the world from then on. All you will want to do is sit on the bench that stares off into the city for hours. As you make your way back down the hill and to the parking lot, feelings of fulfillment and peace will circulate through your body. Those feelings are what Stough Canyon will leave you with, and a longing to return as soon as possible.

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Stough Canyon Hiking Trail
2300 E Walnut Ave, Burbank, CA 91504