Mulholland Highway
A legendary scenic drive through the Hollywood Hills, offering breathtaking city views and a cinematic atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Mulholland Highway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary scenic drive through the Hollywood Hills, offering breathtaking city views and a cinematic atmosphere.
"A picturesque oasis of visual beauty one can drive unwind and relax don't miss it."
🚗 Plan Your Route
Some overlooks are one-way. Check a map beforehand to maximize your scenic stops!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The overlooks offer incredible photo opportunities of LA.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hollywood Hills Scenic Overlook
Eastbound traffic
Panoramic vistas of the sprawling Los Angeles basin, a truly iconic view.
Hollywood Bowl Scenic Overlook
Eastbound traffic
A favorite spot offering stunning views, perfect for soaking in the city's grandeur.
Nancy Hoover Pohl Overlook
Westbound traffic
Experience the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains from this serene vantage point.
Rocky Oaks Nature Reserve
Malibu
Explore hiking trails amidst the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
David Lynch's Muse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Route
Some overlooks are one-way. Check a map beforehand to maximize your scenic stops!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The overlooks offer incredible photo opportunities of LA.
🎬 Lynchian Vibes
Embrace the cinematic atmosphere, especially if you're a fan of David Lynch's films.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
A popular route for motorcyclists seeking thrilling curves and stunning scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Route
Some overlooks are one-way. Check a map beforehand to maximize your scenic stops!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The overlooks offer incredible photo opportunities of LA.
🎬 Lynchian Vibes
Embrace the cinematic atmosphere, especially if you're a fan of David Lynch's films.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
A popular route for motorcyclists seeking thrilling curves and stunning scenery.
👟 Hiking Trails Nearby
Stop at Rocky Oaks Nature Reserve for a refreshing hike in the mountains.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular, sweeping views of Los Angeles and the surrounding mountains, calling it a 'picturesque oasis of visual beauty.' Many appreciate it as a free and scenic way to spend a couple of hours. Some note that certain overlooks are directional and parking can be limited.
"Want to kill a couple hours while in Los Angeles without spending a penny? Take a drive on this VERY scenic road located north of the Laurel Canyon area. Do a simple internet search for a beginning and stop point and take in any or all of the pull-overs along the way. Keep in mind, at least a couple of these pull-overs are only accessible for east or westbound traffic, and you'll learn this in your internet search. We chose to drive Laurel Canyon Blvd., north to Mulholland Dr., then east. Continuing east, we stopped at the Hollywood Hills Scenic Overlook. Make no mistake, even without stopping, you're still going to have spectacular views. Continuing east, we stopped at the Scenic Overlook at Hollywood Bowl. THIS overlook was our favorite. As I stated earlier, this is one of the overlooks that is only accessible for directional traffic (eastbound.) Parking is limited, and steps leading to the very top observation point would be inaccessible for a wheelchair. We then continued east, found a turnaround spot, and headed west as far as the Nancy Hoover Pohl Overlook. Enroute, we stopped at the Universal City Overlook. With our drive completed, we headed back to our Airbnb in Laurel Canyon.
Enjoy!"
Robert Kramer
"A picturesque oasis of visual beauty one can drive unwind and relax don't miss it."
Kered Nella
"Beautiful road for any motorist."
Phantom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mulholland Highway is accessible from various points, including Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Kanan Road. Many visitors start by driving north on Laurel Canyon Blvd. to reach Mulholland Drive.
Mulholland Highway is a two-way road, but some scenic overlooks are only accessible to eastbound or westbound traffic. It's best to plan your route in advance.
Yes, a regular car is perfectly suitable for driving Mulholland Highway. The road is well-maintained, though some sections can be winding.
Public transportation options are limited for directly accessing the scenic overlooks. Driving is the most convenient way to experience Mulholland Highway.
Many recommend starting from Laurel Canyon Boulevard and heading east on Mulholland Drive for iconic views of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, driving Mulholland Highway and visiting its scenic overlooks is free of charge.
There are no entrance fees for the scenic overlooks along Mulholland Highway.
Mulholland Highway is a public road and is accessible 24/7. However, visiting overlooks during daylight hours is recommended for the best views.
Parking is available at most overlooks, but it can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays.
Yes, you can drive Mulholland Highway at night, and the city lights offer a different, spectacular view. Be cautious of winding roads and wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hollywood Hills Scenic Overlook and the Hollywood Bowl Scenic Overlook are highly recommended for capturing stunning cityscapes.
Late afternoon during the 'golden hour' provides beautiful lighting. Evenings offer a magical view of the city lights.
Drone regulations can be complex in Los Angeles. Always check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone.
Mulholland Drive is famously associated with David Lynch's film of the same name, and many scenes evoke a mysterious, cinematic feel.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on city landmarks.
🎫 🏞️ Nature & Outdoors
Yes, Rocky Oaks Nature Reserve is located on Mulholland Highway and offers hiking trails within the Santa Monica Mountains.
You might spot various birds, small mammals, and reptiles in the surrounding natural areas. Be aware of your surroundings.
Many cyclists enjoy Mulholland Highway for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain. Always ride defensively and be aware of vehicle traffic.
The highway features winding roads with significant elevation changes as it traverses the Santa Monica Mountains.
While there aren't designated picnic areas on every overlook, you can find spots to enjoy a packed lunch with a view. Please pack out all trash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a bit of nature, consider a stop at Rocky Oaks Nature Reserve. It offers easy hiking trails suitable for children, allowing them to explore the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. Remember to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for any walking.
🎬 Film Buffs & Cinephiles
Beyond Lynch, Mulholland Highway has been a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows. Keep an eye out for locations that might spark recognition from your favorite movies. The dramatic vistas and winding roads offer a classic Southern California cinematic feel.
🏍️ Motorcycle Enthusiasts
+2Consider planning your ride to include stops at scenic overlooks for breaks and photo opportunities. The journey offers a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping curves and picturesque vistas, making it a must-do for many bikers in the Los Angeles area.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cinematic Allure of Mulholland Drive
This cinematic connection adds a layer of intrigue to the drive. As you navigate the curves, you might find yourself recalling scenes from the movie, imagining the stories that unfold in the shadows of the Hollywood Hills. The road's reputation as a filming location and its namesake film have cemented its place in popular culture, drawing tourists who want to walk (or drive) in the footsteps of cinematic history.
Beyond its film fame, Mulholland Highway offers a genuine escape into the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. The contrast between the urban sprawl below and the rugged terrain above creates a compelling visual narrative. Whether you're a film buff or simply seeking a picturesque drive, Mulholland Highway promises an unforgettable journey.
+1Navigating the Curves: A Motorist's Paradise
+2For drivers and riders, planning is key. It's advisable to be aware of other users of the road, including cyclists and other motorists, and to drive or ride within your limits. The road can be narrow in places, and visibility can be limited around blind corners. Many riders share their experiences online, highlighting the thrill of the ride and the importance of safety.
+2Beyond the thrill of the drive, Mulholland Highway provides access to various natural areas and points of interest. The Rocky Oaks Nature Reserve offers a chance to stretch your legs and explore hiking trails, providing a perfect complement to a scenic drive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit