Last Updated on Sep 23, 2025
The Hollywood Sign stands as a towering emblem of American culture, perched atop Mount Lee in the picturesque Beachwood Canyon. Originally conceived in 1923 as a temporary billboard for a local real estate venture, its towering white letters spelling out "Hollywood" have since become an enduring symbol of the entertainment industry's epicenter.
In the realm of pop culture, the Hollywood Sign serves as more than just a backdrop—it's a versatile player in the entertainment landscape. It's been featured in sword fights, as seen in an episode of "The Optimist" filmed in 1982. Often serving as an establishing shot for Los Angeles and Hollywood, the sign has also faced its fair share of on-screen turmoil. From being damaged or destroyed in iconic scenes to symbolizing the destruction of entire cities or even states, the sign has left its mark on the silver screen. Movies like "Earthquake," "Superman The Movie," "Demolition Man," "Independence Day," "The Day After Tomorrow," "Terminator Salvation," "San Andreas," "Despicable Me 3," and numerous others have all showcased the sign's cinematic versatility.
The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour offers a memorable 2.5-hour guided adventure that blends history, panoramic views, and a bit of cardio as you trek through the iconic hills of Los Angeles. Beginning in Griffith Park, the hike takes you past scenic overlooks of the Hollywood Hills, the San Fernando Valley, and Burbank, with plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way. Your guide shares entertaining and insightful stories about Los Angeles' colorful past while leading you to some of the best vantage points of the legendary Hollywood Sign. Whether you opt for a morning or sunset hike, you'll enjoy complimentary bottled water, helpful local tips, and even a WiFi hotspot to arrange your ride home. It's the perfect way to experience one of Southern California’s most famous landmarks up close.
For those eager to experience one of Los Angeles' most iconic landmarks up close, several trails lead to breathtaking views of the Hollywood Sign. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual explorer, there’s a route suited to your fitness level. The Mt. Hollywood Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and Cahuenga Peak Trail each offer unique experiences, from gentle climbs to challenging ascents. All authorized hiking trails are open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year, ensuring ample opportunity to soak in the scenery and capture the perfect photo.
The Mt. Hollywood Trail is an excellent choice for beginners and families, offering a moderate yet rewarding hike. This scenic 5.3-mile loop provides panoramic views of Los Angeles, including the Griffith Observatory and downtown skyline. Although this trail does not lead directly to the Hollywood Sign, it provides incredible vantage points along the way. Since the trail is mostly exposed, it’s best to start early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to stay comfortable throughout your journey.
For those looking for a slightly longer trek, the Brush Canyon Trail provides a picturesque 6-mile round-trip hike. This out-and-back route gradually ascends through the chaparral-covered hills of Griffith Park, rewarding hikers with incredible views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. While the trail is well-maintained, there is minimal shade, making early morning or late afternoon hikes ideal. Since it’s a popular path for both hikers and runners, expect some company along the way. Don’t forget your camera—this trail offers excellent photo opportunities of the sign framed against the Los Angeles skyline.
If you're seeking a challenge, the Cahuenga Peak Trail is the most rugged and demanding route to the Hollywood Sign. This 3-mile hike features steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the reward is unmatched—stunning 360-degree views of Los Angeles, Burbank, and the Pacific Ocean. The trail passes through Burbank Peak and the famed Wisdom Tree before leading hikers along the Aileen Getty Ridge Trail to Mount Lee, where the Hollywood Sign awaits. With an 875-foot elevation gain, this trail provides an intense workout and a sense of accomplishment at the summit.
Ovation Hollywood, located at the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, is one of the best spots to view the Hollywood Sign without breaking a sweat. In addition to capturing a picture-perfect shot of the sign, visitors can immerse themselves in Hollywood’s glitz and glamour. Explore the Walk of Fame, compare handprints at TCL Chinese Theatre, or enjoy a meal with a view. This bustling location offers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and history, making it a must-visit for those looking to experience the magic of Hollywood.
For a more scenic and relaxed experience, the Griffith Observatory provides spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign along with sweeping vistas of the Los Angeles skyline. Located in Griffith Park, the Observatory offers free parking and accessibility for visitors of all physical abilities. While you’re there, explore the Observatory’s exhibits, catch a planetarium show, or take advantage of the public telescope for some stargazing. The Griffith Observatory has been featured in numerous films, including Rebel Without a Cause, adding a cinematic touch to your visit.
The iconic Hollywood Sign began its life in 1923 as an ambitious real estate advertisement for a new housing development called Hollywoodland. Commissioned by developers Woodruff and Shoults, the massive sign originally featured 13 wooden letters, each 30 feet wide and 50 feet tall, illuminated by 4,000 light bulbs and designed by Thomas Fisk Goff of Crescent Sign Company. Perched high in the hills, the sign flashed in segments—“HOLLY,” “WOOD,” and “LAND”—and was visible for miles, with a powerful searchlight drawing even more attention to the hills above Los Angeles. Though it was meant to last only 18 months, the sign gained lasting fame thanks to the rise of American cinema and the growing mystique of Hollywood. Over time, the “LAND” portion was dropped, and the sign evolved from a temporary real estate pitch into a globally recognized symbol of the entertainment industry and the city itself.
The Hollywood Sign Webcam offers a real-time, high-definition view of one of Los Angeles' most iconic landmarks, allowing fans from around the world to virtually experience the magic of the Hollywood Hills. Whether you're checking the weather, planning your hike, or simply daydreaming about the glitz and glamour of LA, this live webcam streams a continuous shot of the legendary white letters perched atop Mount Lee. The Hollywood Sign Webcam is especially popular at sunrise, sunset, and during special events, providing an up-close look at the sign's surroundings, from Griffith Park to sweeping views of the Los Angeles skyline. It's a perfect way to stay connected to Hollywood’s timeless allure, no matter where you are.
