Mount Lukens via Deukmejian Park

Mount Lukens via Deukmejian Park is a moderately trafficked 10.5 mile loop that combines single track trails, fire roads, and is located in Glendale, California. The loop is challenging yet rewarding and includes a summit of Mount Lukens, the highest point in Los Angeles! The area is popular amongst hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers and is accessible year round. 

Deukmejian Park is a city park within the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. The trails in the area are lined with sweet smelling sage and various chaparral such as manzanita and yucca. The park is easily accessible and has accommodations such as, a large parking area, bathrooms, picnic benches, potable water and tons of trail access. Deukmejian Park is quiet, scenic, and is often less crowded than some of the other nearby foothill areas. 

Described here is a counterclockwise loop, but it can also be done in a clockwise direction. A counterclockwise route will have a short and steeper climb and a longer and more gradual descent.  

THE ROUTE
From the parking lot, take the wide dirt path to the main trailhead in Dunsmore Canyon. Turn right at Vineyard Trail and continue to climb along the Crescenta View Trail.

At 3.4 miles turn left on Mount Lukens Forest Road and continue for another 1.2 miles where you reach the summit of Mount Lukens (the actual high point is in front of the radio towers, and you will need to briefly leave the dirt road to stand there).  

From the top you will be able to enjoy 360 degree views. From the west, you can see the Verdugo Mountains, Griffith Park, and the city of Los Angeles. You can also see as far out to the Pacific Ocean if you are at the top of the mountain on a clear day. Look to the east, and you will see the rugged wilderness of Angeles National Forest and the jagged peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains.

After you have taken a few pictures at the top, return to Mount Lukens Road and begin your descent down Haines Canyon Motorway. 

At mile 7.6, take the Rim Of The Valley Trail and continue down through Cooks Canyon. At mile 9.2, take the Le Mesnager Loop Trail back to Dunsmore Canyon and the parking area where you started. 

There are several connecting trails near the parking area making it possible to explore more and complete the loop in a variety of ways. Additional information and maps of the area are provided by the city of Glendale and can be viewed here: https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/community-services-parks/trails-and-open-space/trail-maps

WATER
Potable water is available in the parking lot just before the trailhead. Make sure you begin your hike with plenty of water. This loop has little shade and minimal seasonal streams that you should not rely on.  

PARKING
The park is open from sunrise to dusk, make sure you do not leave a car in the parking area past sunset or it will get locked inside.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash.

• Bikes are allowed, however, helmets are required for all cyclists.