Hollywood Reservoir Los Angeles
A serene 3.3-mile paved loop offering iconic Hollywood Sign views and a peaceful escape in the heart of Los Angeles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Hollywood Reservoir Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 3.3-mile paved loop offering iconic Hollywood Sign views and a peaceful escape in the heart of Los Angeles.
"Truly felt like I was not in LA for a couple moments while walking the 3.5 mile loop."
🎯 Best Hollywood Sign Photo Spot
Walk to the end of the fence near the bridge for the most spectacular, unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign.
👟 Paved Trail, Little Shade
The 3.3-mile loop is paved and great for all, but bring sun protection as there's minimal shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hollywood Sign Vista
Along the reservoir trail, near the bridge
Capture that iconic Hollywood Sign photo from a unique vantage point. The views are truly spectacular!
Serene Reservoir Loop
3.3-mile paved trail
Enjoy a peaceful 3.5-mile walk or run with stunning water and nature views, a true escape from the city bustle.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the trail
Keep your eyes peeled for local fauna like deer and various bird species, adding a natural charm to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views
Trail Essentials & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Hollywood Sign Photo Spot
Walk to the end of the fence near the bridge for the most spectacular, unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign.
👟 Paved Trail, Little Shade
The 3.3-mile loop is paved and great for all, but bring sun protection as there's minimal shade.
🚗 Parking is Street-Based
Free street parking is available, but the drive up is narrow and residential, so drive slowly.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted on the Hollywood Reservoir trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Hollywood Sign Photo Spot
Walk to the end of the fence near the bridge for the most spectacular, unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign.
👟 Paved Trail, Little Shade
The 3.3-mile loop is paved and great for all, but bring sun protection as there's minimal shade.
🚗 Parking is Street-Based
Free street parking is available, but the drive up is narrow and residential, so drive slowly.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted on the Hollywood Reservoir trail.
🦌 Watch for Wildlife
You might spot deer and other animals, but be aware that coyotes have also been seen.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Hollywood Reservoir for its stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and its peaceful, natural atmosphere, offering a welcome escape from the city. The paved trail is convenient for walking and running, and the chance to see wildlife is a delightful bonus. Some note the drive up can be narrow and that there's limited shade.
"Amazing place with incredible views ❤️ My favourite place to hike! The trail is paved - convenient for dust-free hiking)
You can see animals: hares, varans, deer
There's a cool spot on the trail for a photo with a Hollywood sight 📸"
Diana Dovzhuk
"Beautiful and quite walking trail at the Hollywood Reservoir. The road to getting there is a bit tight and curvy but I think it helps deter a lot of people away which helps keep its exclusivity. I truly felt like I was not in LA for a couple moments while walking the 3.5 mile loop. The dead silence and natural beauty really delivers an amazing escape."
Guy Heger
"Grate views of the Holly wood sign. TIP: keep waking till the fence ends and you reach the bridge. There’s the most spectacular view. A lot of people just turn around because they think is not worth it but it totally is worth it."
J M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach the Hollywood Reservoir, take Barham Boulevard to Lake Hollywood Drive. The drive up is through a residential area and can be narrow, so proceed with caution.
Yes, there is free street parking available near the reservoir. Be mindful of the narrow, winding residential roads leading up to the area.
While you can't drive directly to the sign, driving to Lake Hollywood Park offers a close view without much walking. The Hollywood Reservoir trail also provides excellent photo opportunities.
Public transport options are limited for direct access. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the reservoir.
Many visitors find the approach via Barham Boulevard to Lake Hollywood Drive to be the most straightforward, though the roads are tight.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Hollywood Reservoir and its trails is free. There are no admission fees required.
The reservoir trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during park hours, typically from sunrise to sunset.
There is no entrance fee to access the Hollywood Reservoir or its walking paths. It's a public space for recreation.
Official tours are not typically offered for the Hollywood Reservoir itself. It's a self-guided recreational area.
The main restriction is that dogs are not allowed on the reservoir trail. Otherwise, it's open for public use during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Hollywood Reservoir trail is a paved, 3.3-mile loop around the reservoir. It's relatively flat with some gentle inclines, making it suitable for walking, jogging, and running.
Most people take about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete the 3.3-mile loop at a leisurely pace, including stops for photos.
Restroom facilities are not widely advertised or consistently available at the Hollywood Reservoir. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive.
Yes, the paved surface of the 3.3-mile loop makes it very stroller-friendly.
Visitors often spot deer, various bird species, and sometimes even coyotes. It's a great spot for nature observation.
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular photo spot is along the trail where you get clear views of the Hollywood Sign. The bridge area offers particularly stunning perspectives.
Yes, the 3.3-mile loop provides several vantage points for excellent Hollywood Sign photos. The key is to walk further along the trail towards the bridge for the best shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in park areas and near reservoirs due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
Besides the sign, the reservoir itself, the bridge, and the surrounding natural landscape offer picturesque scenes. You might also capture wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's little shade, visiting in the cooler parts of the day (morning or late afternoon) can make it more comfortable. The chance to spot wildlife like deer is often a big hit with children. Just be sure to remind them that dogs are not allowed and to keep a safe distance from any animals they might see. The iconic Hollywood Sign views also add an element of excitement for younger visitors.
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
The trail offers a refreshing change of scenery from typical city gyms or streets, with water views and glimpses of the Hollywood Sign. While it can get warm due to the lack of shade, early morning or evening runs are highly recommended. The relatively gentle elevation changes make it suitable for various training levels.
📸 Photographers & Sightseers
Visiting during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) will provide the best lighting for stunning photos. The reservoir's tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the chance to see wildlife, adds further appeal. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as there are limited amenities on the trail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hollywood Reservoir Trail Experience
Many visitors highlight the tranquil ambiance of the reservoir, noting how it feels miles away from the hustle of Los Angeles. The gentle elevation changes make it accessible for most fitness levels, and it's even stroller-friendly. The presence of local wildlife, such as deer and various bird species, adds to the natural charm of the area. However, remember that dogs are not permitted on the trail, and while you might see deer, coyotes have also been spotted.
For the most rewarding experience, especially for photography, it's recommended to continue walking past the initial viewpoints. The area near the bridge offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign, a highlight for many visitors. Planning your visit during weekdays or early mornings can help you avoid larger crowds and fully appreciate the natural beauty and iconic scenery.
Capturing the Iconic Hollywood Sign
To get the best photographic results, timing is key. Visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – provides beautiful lighting that enhances the scenery and the iconic sign. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, allowing for more relaxed photo opportunities without jostling for space.
Beyond the sign, the reservoir itself, the unique bridge structure, and the surrounding natural landscape offer plenty of photographic interest. Keep an eye out for wildlife, which can add an unexpected and delightful element to your photos. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone fully charged and ready to capture the views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit