The Best (And Easiest!) Way To Hike To The Hollywood Sign

 

 

When I was ferociously researching landmarks and places to go in Los Angeles, there was one that simply HAD to be included in my Los Angeles itinerary: the Hollywood Sign hike. Oh, and I don’t mean just having a good old look at the Hollywood Sign from afar; I wanted to get as close as humanly (and legally) possible! Hiking to the Hollywood Sign is an iconic experience that offers stunning views of Los Angeles, and it quickly became my favorite part of visiting LA.

I’ve now done the Hollywood Sign hike twice, exploring two different routes, and both times it was absolutely worth it. The first time, I tackled the Wonder View Trail, which was an adventure in itself, and more recently, I took on the Griffith Observatory to Hollywood Sign hike. Each trail offers its own unique charm and challenges, making every hike to the Hollywood Sign a memorable adventure.

In this updated guide for 2024, I’ll share detailed information on both the Wonder View Trail and the Griffith Park Trail, helping you decide which hike is best for you. We’ll cover everything from how to get to the Hollywood sign, what to expect on the trail, and where to park, to tips for making the most of your hike. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this guide will ensure you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable journey to one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the magic of the Hollywood Sign hike. Trust me, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!

Is the Hollywood Sign Hike Worth It? 

So, first off you may be wondering “is the Hollywood sign hike worth it?”. Well to that I say absolutely, yes! I mean I would not have done it twice unless it was. 

The first time I hiked to the Hollywood Sign, I took the Wonder View Trail. This trail was a thrilling adventure with steep inclines and rocky sections that made reaching the top feel like a real achievement. Despite the challenges, the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views made it all worthwhile. Standing behind those famous white letters, looking out over the sprawling cityscape of LA, is a moment I’ll never forget.

On my second hike, I opted for the Griffith Obseravtory to Hollywood Sign hike. This route was less strenuous but equally rewarding, offering a more relaxed hike with panoramic views all along the way. The sunset hike was particularly magical, with the golden light casting a beautiful glow over the city and the Hollywood Sign itself. This trail proved to be a perfect option for those looking for a less demanding yet equally picturesque hike to the Hollywood Sign.

Pros of the Hollywood Sign hike include the iconic photo opportunities, where you can get that perfect shot with the Hollywood Sign in the background (make sure you have a wide-angle camera like a GoPro). The spectacular views from both trails give you a unique perspective of Los Angeles. Additionally, the hike provides a good workout, making it a satisfying challenge for those who enjoy staying active while exploring new places.

In conclusion, whether you choose the Wonder View Trail or the Griffith Park Trail, the Hollywood Sign hike is undoubtedly worth it. The combination of iconic views, a bit of adventure, and the sheer joy of reaching an iconic landmark makes this hike a must-do when visiting Los Angeles. So, yes, the Hollywood Sign hike is definitely worth every step!

What Is The Easiest Hike To The Hollywood Sign? 

Choosing the easiest Hollywood sign hike depends on your fitness level and hiking preference. Both the Wonder View Trail and the Griffith Park Trail offer unique experiences. Here’s a brief overview of each trail to help you decide which path suits you best.

Wonder View Trail

The Wonder View Trail, also known as Burbank Peak Trail, is a thrilling route for the Hollywood Sign hike. This trail offers a moderate to strenuous adventure with steep inclines and rocky sections, perfect for those looking for a bit of a challenge. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of Los Angeles and even visit the famous Wisdom Tree. It’s a quieter, less crowded path to the iconic Hollywood Sign.

Griffith Observatory to Hollywood Sign Hike 

The Griffith Park Trail is a more relaxed option for the Hollywood Sign hike, starting from the Griffith Observatory. This route is less steep and offers a leisurely hike with beautiful panoramic views of Los Angeles. The trail is well-marked and popular among both tourists and locals, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less demanding hike. Enjoy the sunset and the breathtaking vistas as you make your way to the Hollywood Sign.

Hollywood Sign Hike: The Wonder View Trail

I’d seen so many photos from behind the Hollywood Sign but I was baffled as to how to get to it, as there aren’t many simple resources online. In the end, I turned to my trusty google maps, and searched for the shortest distance to the nearest road. I found the Wonder View Trail. 

A little disclaimer before we start; when I say easy in the title, this by no means is going to be easy for everybody. I found this was the easiest, as it was the shortest route and also a lot less foot traffic than most Hollywood Sign hikes (as far as I know). However, this hike has some serious elevation (seriously, we were in the clouds at some points) and is not just a casual stroll. Just for you, I’ll include a few alternative hikes at the bottom. 

Getting There 

Getting to the Wonder View Trailhead for your Hollywood Sign hike is fairly straightforward but requires some planning. The trailhead is located in a residential area, and the best way to get there is by car. I stress the importance of renting a car in LA in this post, but this couldn’t ring more true for this excursion. The trailhead is only accessible via car or private vehicle. You could opt to Uber to the trailhead from wherever you are but I would seriously consider renting just to have your own freedom and save a return Uber. We hired our red convertible for whizzing around LA from Trip.com.

Parking 

Start by driving to Lake Hollywood Drive and then follow the road until you reach Wonder View Drive. You’ll see lots of signs saying “DEAD END”, “HIKERS TURN BACK”, “NO TURN OUT” etc. Please DO NOT ignore these. They are exactly right, it is a private and narrow road and you will get stuck at the top because there’s nowhere to turn around or park. Before you hit Wonder View Drive, keep right to stay on Lake Hollywood Drive and there is parking down at Lake Hollywood North Gate. 

From here, it’s a short walk to the trailhead. Make sure to obey all parking signs and restrictions to avoid fines. There’s no parking directly at the trailhead, so plan to park and walk a bit. This area can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early not only helps with avoiding crowds on the trail but also ensures you get a good parking spot.

If you’re using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, set your drop-off point at Lake Hollywood Park to avoid the narrow, winding roads that lead up to the trailhead. This way, you’ll start your Hollywood Sign hike smoothly without any parking hassles.

Best Time To Start

Starting early is crucial for a couple of reasons. First, you’ll avoid the midday heat, which can be intense, especially during the summer months. Second, an early start means fewer people on the trail, allowing you to enjoy a quieter, more peaceful Hollywood sign hike. Plus, if you time it right, you might catch a breathtaking sunrise over Los Angeles, making your Hollywood Sign hike even more memorable.

Figuring out the best time for the Hollywood Sign hike is all about personal preference. I chose this hike because it’s short (about 40-45 minutes) and less crowded. To ensure a stress-free experience with optimal views, I decided to hike around sunrise.

Now, hear me out. I’m not a morning person, and waking up at 5 am for a 1.5-hour round-trip hike doesn’t sound fun. BUT, that morning light! I’m a sucker for golden hour, and watching the sun rise behind the Hollywood Sign was unforgettable. Plus, we had the trail and viewing area all to ourselves for the first 15 minutes. On our way down, we only saw a few locals on their morning walk. I highly recommend doing the Hollywood Sign hike at sunrise rather than sunset.

The Wonder View Trail

The Wonder View Trail is an adventurous and moderately strenuous route to the Hollywood Sign. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, this trail is perfect. The hike begins with a steep incline, quickly gaining elevation as you ascend the west side of Mount Lee. This initial stretch might get your heart pumping, but the views are absolutely worth it. One of the first landmarks you’ll encounter is the Wisdom Tree, a solitary tree at the summit of Burbank Peak. This unique spot not only offers fantastic views of the city but also serves as a popular rest stop for hikers to catch their breath and take in the scenery.

As you continue your hike, you’ll reach Cahuenga Peak, the twelfth highest peak in the Santa Monica Mountains. This part of the Hollywood Sign hike involves some rocky sections that require good footing, so make sure you’re wearing appropriate hiking shoes. The trail here can be quite rugged, but the effort is well-rewarded with panoramic vistas of Los Angeles and beyond. The sense of accomplishment you feel as you conquer these rocky sections is unparalleled.

Getting closer to the Hollywood Sign, the trail becomes less steep but remains rugged. You’ll find yourself navigating through a variety of terrains, which keeps the hike interesting and engaging. Eventually, you’ll reach the Hugh Hefner Overlook, located right behind the iconic Hollywood letters. This spot offers an incredible perspective of the sign and the sprawling cityscape below. The total elevation gain on the Wonder View Trail is about 800 feet, making it a decent workout.

Overall, while the Wonder View Trail is challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. The combination of steep inclines, rocky sections, and stunning views makes it a memorable adventure. If you’re up for a moderately strenuous hike with breathtaking scenery, the Wonder View Trail to the Hollywood Sign is a fantastic choice.

Hollywood Sign Hike: Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Sign

When planning my next hike to the Hollywood Sign, I wanted to try a different route and decided to start from the iconic Griffith Observatory. I’d read about the Griffith Park Trail being a bit easier and more scenic, and it didn’t disappoint. Using Google Maps, I found the Charlie Turner Trailhead at the observatory and set off on my adventure.

Just a heads up, this hike is still a workout, but it’s less strenuous compared to the Wonder View Trail. The trail is mostly paved and offers a more gradual ascent, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. I chose to start my hike around 4 PM, aiming to catch the sunset from the top. This timing was perfect – the trail was quieter, and the golden hour views were absolutely stunning.

As a nice addition, starting at the Griffith Observatory means you can enjoy this LA landmark before or after your hike. 

Getting There

Getting to the trail head for the Hollywood Sign hike from Griffith Observatory is quite convenient. This trailhead is well-known and easily accessible. I recommend taking an Uber or Lyft up to the Griffith Observatory to avoid the hassle of parking as it’s usually super busy. Once you arrive, head to the Charlie Turner Trailhead, which you can find on Google Maps. From there, walk up West Observatory Road until you reach Mount Hollywood Drive and turn onto the drive, continuing upwards. This Hollywood sign hike offers a more leisurely hike compared to the Wonder View Trail, with less steep inclines and a more gradual ascent, making it suitable for a wider range of fitness levels.

Parking

Parking for the Griffith Obseravtory to Holywood Sign hike can be a bit tricky, especially during peak hours and weekends. Finding somewhere to park at Griffith Observatory can be challenging on weekends, and even more so around sunset, so I recommend coming early to park or visiting on a weekday for the best chance of getting a spot. 

If you plan to arrive around 2 PM on a weekday and stay at the observatory till later, it’s usually not too hard to find parking. When I went with a car in 2020, parking was around $15 an hour, so keep that in mind when planning your visit. If the lot is full, there’s also street parking available around Griffith Park, but be prepared for a bit of a walk to the trailhead.

Alternatively, I used a rideshare service to get dropped off directly at the Griffith Observatory. This saves you the stress of finding parking and allows you to start your Hollywood Sign hike right away.

Best Time To Start

Choosing the best time to hike the Griffith Park Trail to the Hollywood Sign can make a big difference in your experience. For this trail, I definitely recommend a sunset hike. I started around 4/4:30 PM, and it was perfect timing to get out and back before sunset (this was in April when the sun set just before 8 PM).

Hiking at this time of day means the trail is super quiet and relaxing. It was such a chilled experience, and I even had the chance to relax and listen to Taylor Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department,” which had just been released. The trail put me into a bit of a meditative state, and I loved every minute of it.

The Griffith Park Observatory to Hollywood Sign hike is easier and more popular, so it can get busy during the day. If you prefer a chilled-out hike without loads of people, going around sunset is your best bet. The cooler temperatures in the late afternoon and the beautiful golden light (perfect for photos!) make for an incredibly scenic and enjoyable hike. Plus, the views of Los Angeles as the sun sets are simply breathtaking.

Starting around 4/4:30 PM gives you plenty of time to reach the Hollywood Sign, take some great photos, and enjoy the peacefulness of the trail. You’ll have enough daylight to hike back safely and avoid the crowds that tend to gather during the day. 

Griffith Observatory to Hollywood Sign Hike

The trail begins on at the Charlie Turner Trailhead on West Observatory Road and heads uphill most of the way, but it’s not super steep. This makes it a good alternative to the Wonder View Trail, which is much steeper and involves a bit of scrambling. Theis trail on the other hand, offers a more gradual ascent, making it accessible for hikers of most levels. As you hike, you’ll pass through beautiful landscapes with panoramic views of Los Angeles, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.

Follow the West Observatory Road until you reach Mount Hollywood Drive. This section involves a steady climb but offers beautiful landscapes and panoramic views of Los Angeles along the way. Keep walking up Mount Hollywood Drive until you reach a fork, make sure to turn left onto Mulholland Trail. I made the mistake of not turning off Mount Hollywood Drive onto the Mulholland Trail and ended up scrambling slightly through the bush on the Mount Chapel Trail – although this route was quicker. To avoid this, make sure to turn off from Mount Hollywood Drive onto Mulholland Trail. 

The Mulholland Trail includes some downhill sections and switchbacks as it winds uphill. This part of the hike is less strenuous and provides a variety of terrains to keep things interesting.

As you continue, you’ll eventually reach Mount Lee Drive, which means you’re basically at the Hollywood Sign. You can keep walking up the hill until you get behind the sign, where you’ll have incredible views of the city and the iconic letters. The total distance from Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Sign is about 2.9 miles and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete one way. When you’re ready, simply retrace your steps back to the Griffith Observatory. I recommend doing this hike around sunset. The trail is quieter and more relaxing at this time, and the golden light makes for breathtaking views. Plus, the cooler temperatures make the hike even more enjoyable.

Hollywood Sign Hike FAQs

How long does it take to hike to the Hollywood Sign?

The time it takes to hike to the Hollywood Sign depends on the trail you choose. If you take the Wonder View Trail, it’s a moderately strenuous hike that takes about 40-45 minutes to reach the sign, making it a 1.5-hour round trip. On the other hand, the Griffith Park Trail, starting from the Griffith Observatory, is about 2.9 miles one way and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the sign. Including time for photos and breaks, this makes it a 3-hour round trip. Both routes offer stunning views and unique experiences for your Hollywood Sign hike.

What is the easiest hike to the Hollywood Sign?

The easiest hike to the Hollywood Sign is the Griffith Park Trail. Starting from the Griffith Observatory, this trail is less steep and more gradual compared to the Wonder View Trail. The Griffith Park Trail is well-marked and mostly paved, making it suitable for hikers of all levels, including families and casual hikers. In contrast, the Wonder View Trail is steeper and involves some scrambling, making it more suitable for those looking for a bit of a challenge. For a more relaxed and accessible hike, the Griffith Park Trail is your best option.

Can you hike to the Hollywood Sign on your own?

Yes, you can definitely hike to the Hollywood Sign on your own. I personally did the Griffith Observatory to Hollywood Sign Hike solo, and both are well-traveled and safe.

However, it’s important to be prepared. Bring plenty of water, wear appropriate hiking shoes, and have a map or GPS handy. I would avoid the Wonder View Trail if you’re alone early in the morning or late in the evening due to its steeper terrain and potential for isolation. The Griffith Observatory hike, with its moderate gradient and popularity, is perfect for solo hikers and provides a more relaxed environment. On my solo hike from Griffith Observatory, I found the trail easy to navigate and enjoyed the peacefulness of hiking alone on a quieter trail. 

How long is the Hollywood Sign hike from Griffith Observatory?

The Hollywood Sign hike from Griffith Observatory is approximately 2.9 miles one way. This route follows the Griffith Park Trail and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete one way. If you include time for photos and breaks, the entire round trip is around 3 hours. This trail offers beautiful views of Los Angeles and is a relatively easy hike, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a scenic walk to the Hollywood Sign.

What is the best trail to see the Hollywood Sign?

Both the Wonder View Trail and the Griffith Park Trail offer unique and rewarding experiences for your Hollywood Sign hike. If you’re looking for a quieter and more adventurous route, the Wonder View Trail is a great choice. It’s steeper and involves some scrambling, but the views and sense of accomplishment are worth it. My hike on this trail was challenging but incredibly rewarding with the stunning views of Burbank and the city for sunrise (even in the clouds). For a more relaxed and accessible hike, the Griffith Park Trail is ideal. I enjoyed both trails, but for a leisurely and scenic hike, I would recommend the Griffith Observatory hike.

Other Hiking Trails

These aren’t the only Hollywood Sign hikes! If you fancy a more challenging hike or even something a bit flatter there are heaps of hikes to get up behind it. Here are some I was recommended, but haven’t completed: 

1. Canyon Drive Trail to Hollywood Sign Hike  (easy-moderate) 
2. Griffith Observatory Trail to Hollywood Sign Hike (difficult)
3. Brush Canyon Tail to Hollywood Sign Hike (moderate)

So, there you have it! You’ve made it to the Hollywood Sign and completed the Hollywood Sign Hike! Did you end up doing this hike, or any of the other hikes I mentioned? Let me know down below how you found it and if you have any other tips to add. I’d love to hear from you!

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