Mount Hollywood Trail: Stunning Views of LA

The Mount Hollywood Trail offers stunning views of Los Angeles, with panoramic views of the city, including the Hollywood sign. It’s a moderate hike and everyone must do it at least once. Keep reading for an overview of the route, scenic highlights and tips for the best nature along the trail. 

Mount Hollywood Trail

Where is Mount Hollywood Trail Located?

The Mount Hollywood Trail is located in Griffith Park and leads up to the top of the 1,625-foot high Mount Hollywood. Most people start from the Griffith Observatory, with a round trip being about 3-miles with 500-foot elevation. 

Why This Trail is a Must-Visit for Hikers

While this trail doesn’t go directly past the Hollywood sign, it gives an excellent view of Mount Lee and the iconic HOLLYWOOD lettering, making it an absolute must for native Californians and visitors alike. 

Trail Overview and Route Details

Trail Distance, Elevation Gain, and Difficulty

The Mount Hollywood trail is a 3 mile round trip with a 500 feet elevation gain. The hike has a gradual ascent, making it accessible for most hikers and even families. 

Starting Points and Route Options

There are many ways to hike Mount Hollywood, but most people start from the Griffith Observatory. Here are some of the most popular routes and who might be suited to them:

• Charlie Turner: This is the most popular route and starts in the Griffith Observatory carpark. It is well marked and offers a gradual ascent with clear views of the Hollywood sign. It is a 3 mile round trip with a 500 feet elevation gain. 
• Griffith Park: This one starts near the Travel Town Museum parking lot and offers a more scenic view through forested paths. This hike is a little more challenging at an 800 feet elevation and a 4 mile round trip, but you will benefit from being in quieter areas with less foot traffic. 
• Mount Hollywood Drive: This paved route begins at the base of Mount Hollywood. It’s an easier hike with a gradual path that is great for families. It is a 3.5 mile round trip with a 700 feet elevation gain. 
• Dante’s View: This route is named after Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. It is a less crowded hike that also starts from the Griffith Park Visitors Center and ascends up a less crowded path than the Charlie Turner Trail. It goes past some of the park’s hidden spots, like the Berlin Forest. It is a 3 mile moderate round trip with a 500 feet elevation gain.
• West Trailhead: This route offers a more natural and shaded path with excellent views. It begins along Western Canyon further west in the park, offering a more nature-filled experience. The total distance is a 3.5 mile round trip with an 800 feet elevation gain.

Scenic Highlights Along the Trail

Breathtaking Views of the Hollywood Sign

Of course, the number one highlight of hiking in Griffith Park, Los Angeles are the breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign. It’s one of the most photographed spots in LA and looks great whatever the time of day or season of the year. 

The Griffith Observatory Experience

In addition to the Griffith Park hiking trails, you should also experience the Griffith Observatory. It was opened to the public in 1935 and has been a cultural institution ever since.

It is not just an iconic building, with an Art Deco exterior, but it is also California’s gateway to space. It is completely free and allows visitors to look through telescopes, explore exhibits and see shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. It’s a great place for the whole family to visit. 

Other Landmarks and Panoramic Views

In addition to the Hollywood sign and the Griffith Observatory, you can also see a number of other landmarks and iconic views:

• City views: You can see panoramic views of the LA skyline mixing rugged hills with skyscrapers. 
• Cahuenga Peak: This is located just west of the Hollywood Sign, here you will also see the rolling Hollywood Hills. 
• Pacific Ocean: On clear days you’ll even get a distant view of the Pacific Ocean. 
• Los Angeles Basin: This is the heart of the city’s metropolitan area and includes the Santa Monica Mountains and the Valley. 

Best Time to Hike Mount Hollywood Trail

Seasonal Considerations

You can hike the Mount Hollywood Trail throughout the year, but different seasons will offer different views and experiences. Here are things to consider in each season:

• Spring: The springtime is probably the best time to hike, with mild temperatures and a lush landscape. You are likely to see many wildflowers during this time of year, although it could be crowded with more hiking groups.
• Summer: The heat can be intense during this time of year and it is advisable to hike in the mornings during the summer months. The landscape may also appear drier and there is always the risk of wildfires.
• Fall: This is an ideal time to hike with cooler temperatures. The landscape may be a bit dustier and you’re not as likely to see as many fall colours as in other parts of the US. 
• Winter: Californian winters are mild but there is still the chance of rain or fog. If it does rain, it is best to avoid slipping. That said, there are less crowds at this time of year.  

Despite the season, it’s advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and always bring water to avoid dehydration.

Sunrise vs. Sunset Hikes

Some of the best times to hike the Mount Hollywood Trail are at sunrise and sunset. Sunrise hikes offer cool temperatures and a calm atmosphere. You’ll see the LA skyline light up as you ascend and may even see wildlife beginning to wake up. Hiking at sunrise is also one of the most peaceful times to hike so you’ll avoid crowds and tourists. 

At sunset, you’ll be able to see the sun dim over the iconic Mount Hollywood sign. Once the sun has gone down, you’ll see the magical twinkling lights of LA. 

Hiking Tips and Safety Precautions

What to Pack for a Successful Hike

There are a number of things you should have in your bag - which should be lightweight and waterproof - for a successful hike:

• Food and water: Make sure you have water so that you don’t dehydrate. You should also have healthy ready-to-go snacks like granola bars and a sandwich so you are fuelled throughout your hike. 
• Clothing: Make sure your clothes are breathable and comfortable. You should have a hat and sunglasses for hot weather, but also pack some rainwear just in case. You should also wear hiking shoes that are appropriate for hiking. 
• Toiletries: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and lip balm. It’s also advisable to bring toilet paper and wet wipes just in case. 
• Emergency kit: Hopefully you won’t need these items, but it’s good to be prepared in case of any emergencies. You should bring a first-aid kit, flashlight and firestarter just in case you have any accidents. 
• Navigation: We all use smart phones these days, but it’s good to have a compass and a map just in case you lose signal. You should also have a power bank with you in case your phone runs out of battery. 

Staying Safe on the Trail

The Mount Hollywood Trail is generally considered to be a safe hike, but there are a number of steps you can take to ensure your safety:

• Check the day: Check the weather. If it is too hot or it’s raining, make a raincheck. The weather can have a big impact on your hike.
• Prepare: You should also make sure you wear appropriate clothing and protect yourself from the sun. It's also important that you have the correct supplies with you for a day’s hiking. 
• Stick to the trail: Designated trails are there for a reason. To avoid injury on rugged terrain and not to avoid disrupting wildlife, it’s best to stick to marked paths.
• Know your limits: If you’re not used to hiking, take breaks and rests. Don’t push yourself, it’s better to turn back than cause injury. 
• Recognize hazardous conditions: Rattlesnakes are rare but they are known to be present in Griffith park. Be careful of tall grass in case they are there. You should also be careful in case of any loose rocks or slippery trails.
• Stay hydrated: It is essential that you drink water continuously throughout your hike, especially in the summer to avoid heat exhaustion. 
• Emergency contacts: It’s important to have an emergency contact in case of an accident, especially if you’re part of a group. You should also keep aware of landmarks as you hike in case you need to call for help. 

Wildlife and Nature Along the Trail

Common Plants and Animals to Spot

There are many animals and plants that can be seen along the trail. Among these are orange and purple wildflowers that can be seen in spring, and red Toyon berries on holly bushes in the fall. If you pass the Berlin Forest, you will see a grove of pine trees that were planted by Berliners to honor their sister-city status with Los Angeles. 

In addition, there is a two-acre retreat of pine, palm and pepper trees that were planted on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood in 1965 by artist-writer Dante Orgolini. Insurance agent Charlie Tucker took over as caretaker after Orgolini’s death in 1978 and hiked to the garden every day until he was nearly 90 over the next 15 years to tend to them. Amongst the animals that can be seen are Chickadee birds that can be seen in conifer trees, as well as brightly coloured Western Tanager birds in the scrub. 

You may also see coyotes, raccoons, foxes, squirrels, and deer in Griffith Park. 

Preserving the Natural Beauty of Griffith Park

Griffith Park is the largest natural wilderness within a US city’s limit, at 4,200 acres of dedicated public parkland. As such, it is important that hikers do their best to preserve its natural beauty:

• Leave no trace: Make sure whatever you bring into the park, leaves the park. Dispose of trash properly, stay on the trails and avoid picking at plants. 
• Respect wildlife: Griffith Park is home to many species of wildlife. If you see an animal, leave them alone and don’t try to pet or feed them. You should also avoid disturbing nests and always keep your dog on a leash. 
• Fire safety: LA is susceptible to wildfires. Avoid lighting fires or not properly disposing of cigarettes, especially during dry conditions. 

Parking, Accessibility, and Nearby Attractions

Where to Park and How to Get There

There are many ways to get to Griffith Park including by Metro & LADOT Dash, cycling and driving. That said, the DASH Observatory shuttle is advised as parking spaces can be limited. This is available 7 days a week. It connects at the Sunset/Vermont Metro station and stops at Los Feliz village, The Greek Theatre, Mt Hollywood hiking trail and the front lawn of the Griffith Observatory.

If you are driving, there are several parking lots although these can fill up quickly. The best parking lot of the Mount Hollywood Trail is the Griffith Observatory Parking lot.  

Other Fun Things to Do in Griffith Park

In addition to hiking, there are many activities for the whole family at Griffith Park. These include numerous attractions which include caves, a theatre and an equestrian center.  There is something for the whole family, from picnicking and camping to soccer and golf. 

Final Thoughts

Hiking the Mount Hollywood Trail is an excellent activity for the whole family. In addition to stunning views of the Hollywood sign, there are dozens of activities that you can experience in Griffith Park.