It took me 18 years, but I finally went on the Hollywood Sign hike, and it was wonderful. If you’re wondering what took me so long, I’m asking myself the same question. I don’t really have a good reason, but the sign is visible from many vantage points throughout the city, and I suppose that had something to do with it.
The Hollywood Sign Hike
If you’ve never been to LA before the Hollywood Sign should be on your list in some form, and getting up close to one of LA’s most well known icons is pretty special.
Table of Contents
Where is the Hollywood Sign and How close can you get?
The Hollywood Sign is located in Griffith Park at the top of Mt. Lee. Situated within a protective fence it is impossible to actually walk right up to it, but you can get fairly close.
Summit of Mt. Lee Griffith Park
There are multiple trails leading to the Sign, and depending on the one you choose you’ll either have views from below or above. It’s quite possible to do both, which I recommend. Do keep in mind that there are security cameras and climbing the fences or approaching the Sign will result in a minimum fine of $1000.
Getting There
There are many entrances to Griffith Park, but for this hike you’ll want to enter at 3200 Canyon Drive, Los Angeles 90068. Don’t google the Hollywood Sign as those directions won’t lead you to this hike, but to an alternative viewing platform far from your desired destination. There are two parking lots in this location and either one will work.
How Long is the Hollywood Sign Hike? Is it difficult?
Depending on your chosen route the hike is around 6 miles round trip with 1100 feet of elevation and takes between 3 and 4 hours to complete. Due to the change in elevation the hike should be considered moderate, though people of all fitness levels have successfully completed this hike.
Spring is a great time to complete this hike as much of it is out in the open with very little shade. The hills are still green from the winter rains making the trail extra beautiful. If not you might consider waiting for late autumn, early winter and avoid the extreme heat of summer.
Hollywood Sign Hike Griffith Park
The Hike
Once parked you’ll want to walk to the end of the furthest parking lot, go around the gate, and head straight. The trail is a wide flat dirt path, which for the most part goes up though there are a few dips here and there giving you a reprieve.
DTLA as seen from Griffith Park
Take a left at the first T and then continue along the main trail. Keep winding around the mountain and be on the lookout as you’ll see glimpses of the Sign as you climb. Make sure to admire the many scenic viewpoints of the Observatory, Downtown LA, and Hollywood along the way.
Hollywood Sign Hike Griffith
About two miles in the trail starts winding down to the left. Go this way to see the front view, but if you’re after the view from behind the sign take a right onto the paved Mt. Lee Road, and keep climbing.
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Mt. Lee Drive Griffith Park
The trail winds up and around to the left and then…
Hollywood Sign Back View
There it is! The world famous Hollywood Sign. Climb just a little bit higher for this wonderful view of the entire sign and the city spread out below.
View of Downtown Los Angeles from the Hollywood Sign
Hollywood Sign Hike
Hollywood Sign Hike
Take your time, savor the moment, admire the view and remember to be safe.
Afterwards, if you haven’t yet, head back down to the front view for a different perspective.
The Hollywood Sign Hike
These people are standing about as close as one can get. Do you see the people far above standing at the Summit of Mt. Lee? That’s where we just were. It’s only a few minutes from one vantage point to the other.
What if I don’t want to hike, but still want to see the sign?
Horse Riding in Griffith Park Los Angeles
There are always other options. As I mentioned the Sign can be seen from many places around Los Angeles, including: Hollywood & Highland, The Broad Building at LACMA, 71 Above in DTLA, the 10 freeway and many more.
If you want to get close, but don’t want to walk you can go on horseback, and finally the Sign’s official website provides suggestions for a number of other optimal viewing spots around town, one of which is the Griffith Park Observatory located in… Griffith Park. If you choose this location you’ll not only see the Sign, but the Observatory as well. Check two of LA’s most famous institutions off your list at the same time.
On a clear day the Observatory offers incredible views in every direction. The view of the Hollywood Sign from this location is great, but you’ll need a long range lens on your camera to get a good photo.
You might also be interested in:
Los Angeles The Hollywood Sign
12 Iconic Film Locations in Los Angeles
One Amazing Day in LA
Tips & Advice:
- Bring water. It’s hot and there is almost no shade. There is also nowhere to get water, and there are no facilities along the trail.
- Wear comfortable closed shoes, and did I mention bring water.
- There are signs pointing you in the correct direction. Please stay on the path and heed all signage. Let’s keep this place pristine for others.
- There are no fees associated with this hike.
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fromtoddlertotraveler
This was the perfect thing to find in my inbox today, because I have a rare weekday off and was debating hiking to the Hollywood sign vs Runyon canyon. Beautiful photos!
Hilary
Today will be a perfect day to go! Not too hot!
Nicola
So cool! I always wanted to hike to the sign but never had time the last time I was in LA
#farawayfiles
Hilary
It was really cool! You’ll have to try it when you next visit!
Clare Thomson
This looks like such a great hike to do, Hilary, and I like your detailed instructions. I’m not sure I’d want to do it in the summer so spring seems perfect. #farawayfiles
Hilary
Thank you! It was a very fun day out and yes, Spring was the perfect time.
Rhonda Albom
I’ve seen the sign from afar so many times. The thought of hiking to get close to it never crossed my mind. Thanks for the idea and the information on how to hike to the Hollywood sign.
Hilary
I don’t think I realized one could hike there legally until a few years ago, though I always knew people did. A great hike on many levels.
Lydia C. Lee
Looks like a good walk! #Farawayfiles
Hilary
A very nice walk!
wildkidswander
I want to do this when we visit Socal!! #farawayfiles
Hilary
You definitely should!
Sharon
Hilary, I’ve done this hike and loved it! Your photos are wonderful. What strikes me is the whiteness of the Hollywood letters. I think they’ve been newly painted. You inspire me to go on this hike again!
Hilary
They do look refreshed don’t they! I’m definitely going to explore more of Griffith Park, it’s so huge!
Janis
This looks like a wonderful hike and with the reward of the view across the city when you reach the top, fantastic. When we had a brief stop in LA (quite a few years ago now) we cheated and drove to the streets further below. Not quite the same, but it’s still great to get the iconic shot. #farawayfiles
Hilary
I get excited Every time I see it no matter the vantage point! It’s just such an icon of this city that I love!
Corey | Fifi + Hop
I would have totally done this if I didn’t have the girls with me, as I love to hike. But, regardless, they LOVED seeing the sign and it was such a highlight of our trip for them. They had seen the image so many times that to see it in person was so exciting for them. I agree and think the view from the Observatory is a great way to see it too. #farawayfiles
Hilary
You’ll just have to come back and we can do it together!
Truly Madly Kids (@TrulyMadly7)
I love this! I had no idea you could hike up there – it really does give a different view of it. Thanks for this post, the I make it to LA I will definitely be looking this back up #farawayfiles
Hilary
Thank you!! I hope you find your way here!