Capture the Icon: Best Photo Spots for the Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the world — a true symbol of dreams, cinema, and the magic of Los Angeles. Perched high on the hills of Griffith Park, the bold white letters can be seen from various spots across the city, but finding the perfect place for that epic photo is part of the adventure.
Here are some of the best spots to capture the Hollywood Sign:
Griffith Observatory This is one of the most popular and easiest spots to get a great view of the Hollywood Sign. From the Observatory, you get a panoramic view of Los Angeles with the Sign perfectly framed by the hills. Plus, the Observatory itself is an iconic attraction worth visiting.
Lake Hollywood Park A hidden gem! This peaceful park offers one of the closest and clearest ground-level views of the Sign. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and perfect for relaxed photos without the heavy crowds.
Hollywood & Highland Center (Ovation Hollywood) Right in the heart of Hollywood, this shopping and entertainment complex has a special viewing deck designed for tourists to capture the Sign. It’s not the closest view, but it’s a great quick stop if you're already exploring the Walk of Fame.
Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlook Famous for its winding roads and stunning city views, Mulholland Drive has several overlooks where you can snap the Hollywood Sign from a distance, framed by the skyline of Los Angeles.
Bronson Canyon (Hollyridge Trail) For those looking for a light hike, the Bronson Canyon trail leads you to great views of the Sign, plus the famous "Batcave" from the 1960s Batman TV series.
Mt. Lee Summit (Behind the Sign) For the most adventurous, you can hike all the way to the back of the Hollywood Sign at the summit of Mt. Lee. Here, you won't see the front of the letters, but you'll stand right behind them with sweeping views of the entire city — a bucket-list experience!
Pro Tip: The best time for photos is during golden hour — just after sunrise or before sunset — when the light is soft, warm, and perfect for unforgettable shots.
The Hollywood Sign isn’t just a photo; it’s a symbol of ambition, creativity, and the spirit of Los Angeles. Wherever you choose to capture it, the moment will be pure...
Read moreBest Official, legal, free, easy walking trail to the Hollywood Sign starts at Innsdale Trailhead, 6100 Innsdale Dr. LA CA 90068. Innsdale trailhead is open 5AM to 10:30PM. If you are visiting the Hollywood Sign then you are "local traffic". (To get to Innsdale Trailhead on busy weekends if Beachwood is blocked use 101 Freeway to Barham exit, download the google maps in case you lose reception etc. ---That said do not use google for the trail to Hollywood Sign - for that use a popular hiking app from trailhead start)There is Free legal curbside street parking on all the streets next to Innsdale Trailhead. (Almost all of LA is residential and you can hike from/in and park curbside in residential areas as per LA city code. Do not park on red or yellow curbs or you will get a ticket. If parking hours are posted pay attention, if not then you can park all day) There are front views every 10 minutes of Hollywood Sign all the way up this trail in case you do not want to walk to top. (1 mile walk to main front view platform and another mile to above Sign view)Tourists and LA locals walk Innsdale trail every single day. Directions: Free legal curbside park right next to Innsdale trailhead on Innsdale Drive, Tahoe, Canyon Lake or Lake Hollywood Drive. From there start at Innsdale dirt path to Mulholland paved roadway. Turn left on paved Mulholland, then take another immediate left through auto barriers to end of Mulholland. Then bear RIGHT onto small dirt path that goes around to Mt Lee Drive and large gate. to left of gate use chain link door with key pad. After that hike up Mt Lee paved road all the way to back view or Tyrolian Tank Road to front view. Once again, Be careful google app will send you to the Observatory! Take water, don't smoke, too hot for dogs midday in summer. The Parking patrols take their lunch here and patrol this legal curbside parking area to make sure people are quiet, and not parking on red curbs.Important: bathroom stop before as there are no bathrooms on the hike at all. Did we say don’t smoke? Don’t smoke please. Take Water...
Read moreHere's a possible review:
5/5 Stars: Breathtaking Views and a Guinness World Record to Boot!
I recently had the privilege of visiting the iconic Hollywood Sign Mountain in Hollywood, California, and it was an unforgettable experience! Our team chose this stunning location to host a Guinness World Record attempt, and we were blown away by the breathtaking views and the mountain's unique energy.
The event was sponsored by our company Design & Animation Studios Corp, and we were thrilled to support Colombian athlete John Fredy Moncada as he attempted to set a new record for the greatest descent controlling a soccer ball without touching the floor. And what a moment it was! John's incredible skill and determination paid off, and he successfully established a new Guinness World Record.
The Hollywood Sign Mountain provided the perfect backdrop for this exciting achievement. The mountain's scenic trails, stunning vistas, and of course, the iconic Hollywood Sign itself, all combined to create an electric atmosphere that fueled John's record-breaking attempt.
Throughout the event, our team was impressed by the mountain's well-maintained trails and facilities. The staff and volunteers were friendly and supportive, and the entire experience was seamless and enjoyable.
If you're looking for a unique and inspiring location to host an event or simply want to experience the natural beauty of Los Angeles, Hollywood Sign Mountain is a must-visit destination. We're grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of this special moment, and we can't wait to return!
Tips and Insights:
Be sure to check the mountain's trail conditions and opening hours before planning your visit. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Don't miss the stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles skyline! Consider hosting your next event or challenge at Hollywood Sign Mountain – it's an unforgettable location that's...
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