Trekking up the dusty, sun-drenched pathways of Griffith Park to reach the spectacular viewpoint behind the Hollywood Sign is an unforgettable California adventure. The trail winds through wild, sage-scented chaparral and rugged canyons, slowly climbing the slopes of Mount Lee. As you reach the peak, you stand directly above the massive, nine-story-tall white letters of the sign, looking out over the entire city of Los Angeles, the downtown skyscrapers, and the sparkling blue ocean in the distance.
What makes this hike highly rewarding is the dramatic contrast between the quiet wilderness of the park and the bustling urban landscape below. Standing at the summit, watching the sunlight glint off the glass towers of the city, and capturing photos with the iconic letters from an angle few tourists see provides a true sense of achievement. It is a favorite local path for catching the fresh mountain air, offering a healthy and scenic escape from the busy city streets.
One fun fact people love:
The Hollywood Sign was originally constructed in 1923 as a temporary advertisement for a local real estate development named Hollywoodland, before being shortened and preserved as a permanent landmark.
Where in Los Angeles is it?
Located in Griffith Park on Mount Lee, situated in the Hollywood Hills area north of the city center.
How to reach:
Accessible by driving to the Canyon Drive trailhead or the Brush Canyon trailhead, where clear dirt paths lead up the mountain.
Best time to visit:
October to April when the temperatures are cool, comfortable, and perfect for hiking the exposed mountain trails.
Best time of day:
Early morning around 7:00 AM to enjoy the cool morning air and beat the intense midday sun and parking crowds.
Entry fee:
Completely free of charge to access the public trails and hike to the viewing areas.
Commute difficulty:
Moderate; the trail is unpaved, gravel-covered, and climbs steadily uphill, requiring sturdy walking shoes and a basic level of physical fitness.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- The final section behind the sign is fenced off and monitored closely by security cameras and park rangers, so stay on the public path to avoid a heavy fine.
- There is very little shade along the entire mountain trail, so packing plenty of water and wearing a wide hat is absolutely essential.
- The surrounding neighborhood streets have highly strict parking restrictions, making launching your hike from the official park trailheads much easier.
