Mount Hollywood Los Angeles
Hike to the summit of Mount Hollywood for unparalleled panoramic views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Mount Hollywood Los Angeles
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the summit of Mount Hollywood for unparalleled panoramic views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory.
"The Mount Hollywood hike delivers one of the most beautiful views in LA and is hands-down one of the best sunset spots in the city."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes are a must for the varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Trails have limited shade, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Mount Hollywood Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Sign and downtown skyline.
Hollywood Sign Glimpse
Various points along the trail
Catch iconic side-angle views of the famous Hollywood Sign, a must-see for any visitor.
Griffith Observatory Backdrop
Near Griffith Observatory
The trail offers stunning perspectives of the iconic Griffith Observatory, especially during golden hour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Trail Navigation & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes are a must for the varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Trails have limited shade, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :droplet:
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a lifesaver. :iphone:
☀️ Avoid Midday Heat
Hike early or late to escape the strongest sun and heat. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes are a must for the varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Trails have limited shade, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :droplet:
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a lifesaver. :iphone:
☀️ Avoid Midday Heat
Hike early or late to escape the strongest sun and heat. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the Views
The photo opportunities are endless, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trails
Many visitors bring their dogs, but keep them leashed. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles, the iconic Hollywood Sign, and the Griffith Observatory. The hike is generally considered accessible and rewarding, with many appreciating the opportunity for a scenic picnic. Some note that trails can be confusing and shade is limited.
"About a 2 mile hike up from the parking lot down towards the bottom of Western Canyon Dr. It’s fairly easy terrain but all uphill so I’d call it a moderate hike with not a lot of shade. The views are great up top with a few places to stop and take a break along the way."
Christopher Cunniffe
"We started at the Brush Canyon Trailhead and made our way to Dante's View at the summit of Mount Hollywood. Absolutely gorgeous views of Los Angeles and surrounding area. There are picnic tables at the summit along with garbage bins. The weather during our hike was warm with overcast and a bit of haze - I imagine clear skies would have made for an even nicer view. The first portion of the trail is the hardest bit and has the steepest incline. The trails are not clearly marked; I'd recommend mapping out your path beforehand. This trail did provide glimpses of the Hollywood Sign from a side angle but not a clear view. If you're looking to get a clear distinct view of the Hollywood Sign, you'd need to take a different path.
Parking: we had no issue finding parking. We parked at the closest lot to the Brush Canyon Trailhead. We had read that parking is an issue and to arrive early in the day for that reason (and to avoid the heat). Surprisingly, we had no issue on this front despite showing up mid-day. We will most definitely come back to check out other trails the next time we are in Los Angeles!"
Sheida N.
"Beautiful Hike with Stunning Views!
Mount Hollywood Summit offers one of the best hiking experiences in Los Angeles. The trail is well-marked and moderately challenging, making it perfect for most fitness levels.
The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, offering a fantastic panoramic view of the Hollywood Sign and the entire city of Los Angeles.
I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the heat and catch the sunrise. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and wear good hiking shoes."
Arya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Hollywood is located within Griffith Park. You can drive and park near the Griffith Observatory or various trailheads like Brush Canyon. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often preferred. Consider ride-sharing services if parking is a concern. +1
Yes, parking is available at the Griffith Observatory and various trailheads. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot.
While direct public transport to the summit is limited, you can take a bus to the Griffith Observatory area and then begin your hike. Check LA Metro schedules for routes serving Griffith Park.
The most popular access point is from the Griffith Observatory parking lot, which offers direct access to several trails leading to Mount Hollywood. Other trailheads like Brush Canyon also provide access.
Access to Griffith Park and the Mount Hollywood trails is generally free. Parking fees may apply at some lots, but many are free, especially during certain hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to hike Mount Hollywood or explore Griffith Park. The trails are open to the public free of charge.
Griffith Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The trails are accessible during these hours. The Griffith Observatory has its own specific operating hours.
While technically possible, hiking Mount Hollywood at night is not recommended due to unlit trails and potential safety concerns. Some visitors enjoy the city lights from the Observatory area after dark.
While official guided tours specifically for Mount Hollywood hikes might be limited, many local tour operators offer guided hikes within Griffith Park that include Mount Hollywood.
Permits are not typically required for individual hiking on Mount Hollywood. However, if you plan a large group event or specific activity, you may need to check with the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Mount Hollywood is generally considered easy to moderate. It involves some uphill sections, but most trails are gradual. The distance can vary, with popular routes around 3 miles round-trip.
A typical hike to Mount Hollywood from the Griffith Observatory takes about 1-2 hours round-trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit. +1
The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, the Hollywood Sign, the Pacific Ocean on clear days, and the downtown skyline.
Restrooms are available at the Griffith Observatory. Some trailheads may also have facilities, but it's best to use them before you start your hike.
Yes, the easier trails are suitable for families. The gradual inclines make it manageable for most children, but be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food options at the Griffith Observatory, including a cafe and a gift shop. Additionally, a food truck offering Acai bowls has been spotted near the trails.
Picnic tables are available at the summit of Mount Hollywood, making it a great spot for a scenic lunch. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The cafe at Griffith Observatory typically offers light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It's a convenient place to grab a bite before or after your hike.
While there are limited dining options directly within Griffith Park itself, the surrounding Los Feliz neighborhood offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes.
Absolutely! Bringing your own water and snacks is highly recommended, especially for longer hikes. There are no vendors on most of the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos. Midday can be harsh, but the panoramic views are still impressive. Night photography with city lights is also popular. +1
The summit provides the best panoramic shots. The trails leading up offer unique angles of the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory. +1
Yes, you can get good side-angle views of the Hollywood Sign from various points along the Mount Hollywood trail. For a direct, close-up view, other trails in Griffith Park might be better.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Griffith Park and around the Griffith Observatory due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check current park rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cityscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on the Hollywood Sign. A tripod is helpful for low-light or sunset shots. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Choose shorter, well-marked trails near the Observatory.
* Bring extra water and sun protection (hats, sunscreen).
* Consider a mid-morning or late afternoon hike to avoid the strongest sun.
* Make it an adventure by looking for the Hollywood Sign and spotting landmarks from above.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers:
* Pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items at the Observatory.
* Utilize free parking if available, or consider ride-sharing if parking fees are high.
* Focus on the natural beauty and views – they are the main attraction and cost nothing!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips:
* Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best light and dramatic skies.
* Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping cityscapes and a telephoto lens for the Hollywood Sign.
* Consider a tripod for low-light conditions and night shots of the city lights.
* Be aware of the midday sun; it can create harsh shadows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Griffith Park Trails
Several routes can lead you to the summit of Mount Hollywood. Some trails offer glimpses of the Hollywood Sign from a distance, while others focus more on the expansive city views.
Capturing Iconic Los Angeles Views
When planning your photo expedition, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive cityscapes and a telephoto lens if you want to get closer shots of the Hollywood Sign.
Experiencing Mount Hollywood with Families
When visiting with children, it's essential to prioritize hydration and sun protection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit