Hollywood Sign Hiking Trails
Hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign via Brush Canyon Trail for breathtaking city views and an unforgettable LA experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less sun, fewer crowds
Hollywood Sign Hiking Trails
Best Time
Less sun, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign via Brush Canyon Trail for breathtaking city views and an unforgettable LA experience.
"The hike to the Hollywood Sign is a must-do for any LA visitor, offering stunning views and a great workout."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for this sunny, exposed hike. Stay hydrated!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear a hat and sunscreen; there's very little shade on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Hollywood Sign View
Brush Canyon Trail
Get up close to the legendary Hollywood Sign for unforgettable photos and a true LA experience.
Panoramic City Vistas
Various points along the trail
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Los Angeles basin stretching out below as you ascend.
The Bat Cave
Near Brush Canyon Trailhead
A quirky, lesser-known spot to explore before or after your hike to the sign.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Hydration and Navigation Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for this sunny, exposed hike. Stay hydrated!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear a hat and sunscreen; there's very little shade on the trail.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes or athletic sneakers are recommended for the varied terrain.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable, so have your navigation ready.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for this sunny, exposed hike. Stay hydrated!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear a hat and sunscreen; there's very little shade on the trail.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes or athletic sneakers are recommended for the varied terrain.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable, so have your navigation ready.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, but be mindful of horse droppings.
🚗 Parking Tips
Free street parking is available at the trailhead, but arrive early on weekends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Brush Canyon Trail for its incredible views of the Hollywood Sign and the sprawling Los Angeles cityscape. The accessibility and free parking are major draws, though many note the significant lack of shade and the steep initial climb. It's a rewarding hike, but preparation with water and sun protection is crucial.
"Lovely Trail and a favorite when visiting Hollywood!
From the Trailhead to behind the sign, you will take approximately 1 hour depending on your pace. The roundtrip distance is about 5 miles.
The beginning can feel a bit steep (first 30 minutes) but after that, the road has a moderate elevation gain and you will be amazed by the wonderful city views and some horse riders.
Be aware of the lack of shade. If you arrive early (around 8 or 9 am) some trees and the side of the hill will help to keep you fresh, but around 11 or noon the Trail is mostly exposed. So, bring sunscreen, a hat and water.
Also, it's good to know that portable restrooms are available only at the parking lot and not on the Trail."
Paola J
"Your cell service will be in and out. Make sure you download whatever you are going to listen 2 if anything. Service drops as soon as you pass the dirt parking area. Starting off is all uphill straight inclines, kinda disrespectful if you're not prepared. Little to no shade. Easy free parking, you can visit the OG Bat cave before starting. This trail leads you to the front and back of the Hollywood sign. Clearly marked, you couldn't get lost if you wanted 2. Trail leads you 2 other locations also. Popular location but not packed on a Friday morning. Weekends might be hectic if you want to park right at the start. There's a hydration station close to the Hollywood sign ( front view). Horse Trail as well, so you will share the trail pretty cool to see. Also, lots of horse poop. It's very nice, definitely a leg workout. Enjoy"
F. Jones
"Brush canyon trailhead, the start of our hike to the Hollywood sign viewpoint. We arrived at 8AM on a Sunday, and there were some free parking spaces left.
There are 2 porta potties near the trailhead, but both were practically overflown. Gross.
The 1st mile was a bit of a climb. Wear a hat and sunscreen since there's not much shades. Bring plenty of water, especially if you're hiking in the middle of the day.
At certain parts of the trails, there were lots of horses' manures, so watch your step. Quite a few people brought their dogs (please clean up after Fido). We also saw a black snake near the bushes, so keep your dog on a leash.
The hike to the Hollywood sign viewpoint is somewhat easy/moderate. Easy when it's nice and cool. Moderate when it's blazing hot. The 5 miles hike took us about 2.5 hours, round trip, out-and-back..
The Hollywood sign was visible after the morning clouds rolled away, but the view of downtown LA was still too hazy."
amie k
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular and recommended trailhead is the Brush Canyon Trail, accessible from Canyon Drive. It offers a moderate hike with great views and leads to both the front and back of the sign. +1
Yes, free street parking is available at the Brush Canyon Trailhead at the end of Canyon Drive. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is advised.
While you can see the Hollywood Sign from Griffith Observatory, the direct hike from the observatory to the sign is not the most common or straightforward route. The Brush Canyon Trail is generally preferred for reaching the sign itself.
Public transport options to the trailhead are limited. It's often recommended to use ride-sharing services or drive to the Canyon Drive trailhead.
Currently, there are no official shuttle services directly to the Hollywood Sign hiking trails. Visitors typically drive or use ride-sharing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking to the Hollywood Sign is free and does not require any tickets or admission fees. +1
The trails are generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to check for any specific park alerts or closures.
There is no entrance fee for the Brush Canyon Trail. Access to the trail and the hike to the Hollywood Sign is free. +1
While the trails are technically open, hiking to the Hollywood Sign at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting.
Visitors are asked to stay on marked trails and not to climb on or tamper with the sign itself. Respect the natural environment and wildlife.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to the Hollywood Sign via Brush Canyon Trail is typically around 3-4 hours round trip, covering about 5-6 miles. This can vary based on your pace and how long you spend at the viewpoint. +2
The hike is generally considered moderate. The first mile or so can be steep, but the rest of the trail has a more gradual incline. It's manageable for most fitness levels, but requires some stamina.
Yes, the Brush Canyon Trail is often recommended as an easier route for beginners, especially if you go early and are prepared with water and sun protection.
Portable restrooms are available at the Brush Canyon Trailhead parking lot, but there are no restrooms along the trail itself.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the Hollywood Sign trails. Many visitors bring their dogs, and it's a popular dog-friendly hike.
The Brush Canyon Trail offers excellent views of the sign from both the front and the back. There's also a popular viewpoint for photos.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography. Golden hour can provide beautiful, warm tones.
The Brush Canyon Trail leads to several vantage points, including one directly behind the sign and a popular viewpoint for classic shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas. It's advisable to check with the National Park Service for specific regulations.
A smartphone with a good camera is sufficient for most visitors. If you want more professional shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the sign and the surrounding landscape effectively.
Yes, the Brush Canyon Trail provides ample opportunities to capture the entire Hollywood Sign in your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting early to avoid the heat and crowds, which can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. The presence of horses on the trail can also be an exciting sight for children. Remember to supervise children closely, especially near any steeper sections or where the trail is shared with horses.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to bring plenty of water for your dog as well, as it can get hot. Be mindful of horse droppings on the trail and keep your dog close, especially if they are easily distracted or reactive. Cleaning up after your pet is essential to keep these trails enjoyable for everyone.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider incorporating this hike into your fitness routine for a rewarding experience with an iconic payoff. The 5-6 mile round trip and elevation gain make it a substantial workout. You can also explore other connecting trails in Griffith Park for longer or more varied routes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Hollywood Sign Hike Route
For those seeking a slightly different perspective or a more challenging trek, other trails exist within Griffith Park that can lead you closer to the sign, though they may be less direct or more strenuous. Some hikers mention the Innsdale Drive trail as an alternative, but Brush Canyon remains the go-to for most visitors looking for a straightforward hike up the Hollywood Sign.
It's important to note that while some sources mention a 'shortest hike to the Hollywood Sign,' the Brush Canyon Trail is generally considered the most practical and well-maintained option for a direct approach. Always check trail conditions and be prepared for the specific route you choose.
What to Pack for Your Hollywood Sign Adventure
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear like hiking boots or athletic sneakers. The terrain can be uneven, and the initial ascent is quite steep. A backpack is essential to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, and any personal items. Consider bringing a portable phone charger, as cell service can be spotty, and you'll want to capture those iconic photos.
For those who like to listen to music or podcasts, download your content offline before you leave, as Wi-Fi and cell service can drop significantly once you're on the trail. Finally, a basic first-aid kit is always a good idea for any hike, just in case.
Navigating the Hollywood Sign Trails
Be aware that the trails are shared with horseback riders, so keep an eye out and give them plenty of space. You might also encounter dogs on leashes, as it's a popular dog-friendly hike.
For those interested in a bit of history, the Bat Cave is located near the Brush Canyon Trailhead and can be a fun, quick detour before or after your main hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit