Phantom of Brand Park

Culture. Beauty. Paranormal activity. Just your standard expectations when you visit Brand Park in Glendale. The 31-acre spot located at the base of the Verdugo Mountains is not only one of the most unique parks in Los Angeles, it’s also one of the most storied. The palm tree–lined entrance area greets with remnants of the gate of El Miradero (Spanish for “the lookout”), the former home of Leslie C. Brand, an early 20th-century entrepreneur who essentially built modern Glendale and left his grounds to the city. The stunning Taj Mahal-esque mansion is now Brand Library, also including an art gallery, sculpture court, recital hall, and rentable studios, creating the “cultural showplace” that Brand always wanted. In fact, he’s so fond of Glendale he still haunts the grounds, and has even spoken to library regulars (so turn in your books on time)!

Take a 1-mile (round-trip) hike to the Brand family cemetery—and that includes the pets. Head behind the library, taking note of the Miss America Green Cross statue, a symbol of the environmental movement and the trailhead marker for a 6-mile loop hike with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain and gorgeous views. For now, swing a left through the parking lot to the tranquil Whispering Pine Tea House and Japanese Friendship Garden (open Mondays to Thursdays only). Head up the hill on the paved road, passing the Doctor’s House, an enchanting Victorian-era home with a museum that opens its doors on Sundays for informative tours. Continue on the wide asphalt road, noting the sign indicating you are on the Brand Motorway trail, and after 0.5 mile reach a three-way junction. Take the leftmost path to a staircase leading to a pyramid-shaped tomb, the pharaoh of Glendale’s final resting place. Head back the way you came.

To get to Brand Park, take the I-5 to Western Ave. Go northeast on Western for 1.5 miles to Brand Park. Dog-friendly!