Brace Canyon Park

Mountain Retreat in the City

Found in a residential neighborhood at the foot of the Verdugo Mountains, this park feels like a little escape from city life, complete with mountain breezes and tall trees. From here, you can soak in some pretty spectacular panoramic views of the eastern San Fernando Valley and catch breathtaking sunsets over Burbank.

The park has an interesting backstory - built in the 1960s for $112,500 on top of a working reservoir in Burbank's water system. Today, it remains something of a local secret, cherished by neighbors for its peaceful vibe and natural beauty.

Recreation Facilities

Whether you're looking to relax or get active, Brace Canyon offers a mix of facilities that work for different ages and interests. The open, grassy areas with their various levels and slopes make perfect spots for spreading out a picnic blanket or tossing a frisbee.

If you're in the mood for something more structured, head to the basketball court where weekend pick-up games often unfold. Tennis enthusiasts will find tennis courts just uphill across the street, while the baseball fields at the lower level host everything from Little League practices to casual weekend games.

Playground Area

The large, wilderness-themed playground is a definite highlight for families. Kids love scrambling over the climbing structures, racing down slides, and soaring on swings. There's even a climbing wall and various equipment that keeps school-aged children entertained for hours. Just note that there's less here for the under-three crowd.

The playground features a fun music play station and other interactive elements that spark imagination. Keep in mind that the ground is covered with sand and there's limited shade, so hats and sunscreen are good ideas during warmer months.

Walking Paths and Scenery

Nicely paved walking paths wind around the park with enough variation in incline to get your heart rate up if you're looking for exercise. For those who prefer a more natural surface, there's a dirt track circling the baseball field.

Tall trees create plenty of shady spots to cool off when temperatures climb. The hillside setting creates an interesting landscape with different levels to explore, all while enjoying those lovely views of the surrounding area.

Amenities

Scattered across the grounds are picnic tables and grills - fantastic for impromptu cookouts or planned gatherings. If you're organizing something bigger, you can reserve dedicated picnic areas through the city ahead of time.

The park has restrooms that are generally well-kept, but like most public facilities, cleanliness varies depending on when you visit. You'll discover drinking fountains conveniently placed around the park, plus plenty of benches for sitting back and enjoying the atmosphere.

Dog-Friendly Environment

Dog owners, you're in luck - leashed pups are welcome here. The grassy areas and walking paths make for pleasant dog walks, and there are waste bag stations throughout (though sometimes they run empty, so bringing your own bags isn't a bad idea).

One thing to be aware of: the park borders natural areas, and there have been occasional coyote sightings. If you have a smaller pet, you'll want to keep a close eye on them, especially near the brush-covered hillsides.