Hollywood Sign: Hike to Iconic Hillside Landmark & Soak Panoramic Los Angeles Views

Photos of Hollywood Sign

Perched at 1,578 feet above sea level in Griffith Park, the Hollywood Sign beckons adventurers and photographers alike. Originally erected as “Hollywoodland” to promote a housing development, its bold letters have come to represent the spirit of the film industry and Southern California’s sunny optimism. Whether you’re hiking the Brush Canyon Trail to its base, framing it from the Griffith Observatory terraces, or capturing it at sunset from Lake Hollywood Park, the Sign delivers an unforgettable L.A. backdrop.

What to Expect

Approach via one of several Griffith Park trails—popular routes include the 3-mile loop from the Griffith Observatory parking lot or the steeper 2.5-mile Brush Canyon Trail. Along the way, you’ll pass chaparral-covered slopes, interpretive plaques about local flora and fauna, and lookout points over the San Fernando Valley. At the Sign’s lower fence, you can snap close-up photos of the letters and the cityscape beyond, though direct access atop the hill is restricted.

Alternate viewpoints abound: the Observatory’s West Terrace frames the Sign beneath its famed dome; Lake Hollywood Park offers reflections in the reservoir; and the Mulholland Drive overlook presents a classic postcard panorama at twilight.

Background and Cultural Context

Built in 1923 as an advertisement for the “Hollywoodland” real estate development, the original sign read “HOLLYWOODLAND.” After years of neglect and damage, the city restored it in 1949—dropping the “LAND”—and again rebuilt it in 1978 with donor-funded steel letters. It has since starred in countless films, TV shows, and music videos, cementing its status as a global emblem of the entertainment industry.

Today the Hollywood Sign Trust oversees its preservation, the Griffith Park Conservancy manages surrounding trails, and local artists occasionally illuminate or embellish the letters for charity and civic celebrations—always under strict city guidelines to protect the landmark.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) offer cooler temperatures, softer light, and fewer hikers. Late afternoon (4–6 PM) yields warm, golden hues on the letters and downtown skyline. For city-lit night views, head to the Observatory or Mulholland Overlook after dusk. Avoid weekends and midday in summer, when trails can be crowded and hot.

How to Get There

Parking and trailheads are at the Griffith Observatory lot (2800 E. Observatory Rd) or the Brush Canyon Trailhead at Canyon Dr & Franklin Ave. Limited free parking fills quickly—reserve a Griffith Observatory parking spot online or arrive early. Ride-share drop-off at the Observatory is convenient; public transit (Metro Bus 96) runs along Los Feliz Blvd to Vermont Canyon.

Photo Opportunities

• Close-up of the “H” and “O” letters framed by chaparral on the Brush Canyon Trail
• Wide panorama of the Sign with downtown L.A. skyline beyond from Observatory West Terrace
• Reflection of the Sign in Lake Hollywood reservoir at sunrise
• Silhouette of the letters against a fiery sunset from Mulholland Drive overlook
• Long-exposure night shot capturing city lights beneath the illuminated Sign

Travel Tips

• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes—trails are unshaded and can be steep.
• Use the official Griffith Park Trail Map to choose a route matching your fitness level.
• Arrive early or late to avoid parking shortages and midday heat.
• Respect posted signs and fences—do not attempt to climb onto or beyond the letters.
• Combine your hike with a visit to Griffith Observatory for telescope views and museum exhibits.

FAQs

Can I hike behind the Sign?
No—access beyond the protective fence at the base of the letters is prohibited for safety and preservation.

Is there an admission fee?
No—access to Griffith Park trails and the Hollywood Sign viewpoints is free. Observatory parking may require a reservation fee.

Are dogs allowed?
Leashed dogs are permitted on all trails; bring waste bags and water for your pet.

Is the area accessible?
Trail access is rugged and not wheelchair-accessible; Mulholland Overlook and Observatory terraces offer easier viewing points.

Final Thoughts

The Hollywood Sign stands as both a testament to L.A.’s cinematic legacy and a captivating natural landmark. Whether you’re summiting a hillside trail, gazing from a distant overlook, or framing it through your camera lens, the Sign offers a timeless connection to the dreams and drama of the City of Angels.