The Best Way to Reach The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign celebrated its 100th birthday in 2023, but it doesn’t look a day over 99. Find out the best way to reach The Hollywood Sign from the experts who keep it looking so good after all these years and plan your own hike.
*This piece contains one affiliate link that will benefit the blog at no cost to you. Thank you for considering the click.
A Little History of the Sign
Did you know the Hollywood sign wasn’t meant to be permanent? The “Hollywoodland” sign was erected in 1923 by Harry Chandler to help promote his ritzy real-estate development and was only meant to stand for 18 months. Now, decades later, it stands for much more than homes – although the area is still quite sought after for that, too.
It wasn’t always glamour and glory for the sign, though. The beginning of World War II saw a decline in home sales. The sign was left to rot away until the late 1970s, when a collaboration between the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Hugh Hefner led to individual “auctioning-off” of the letters to stars like Alice Cooper and Gene Autry. That’s when the original sign came down, and a new one with steel was placed, although there are some memories of the original wood sign still up there.
The sign was repainted in 2012, and The Hollywood Sign Trust keeps it looking better than ever.
Ways to Best Enjoy the Hollywood Sign
While there are several hiking trails, you don’t need to be athletic to get a truly incredible view of the sign. The Hollywood Sign Trust has several ways to visit on their website, including a Dash Bus to Griffith Observatory, which covers highlights like the Greek Theatre and the Griffith Observatory for less than 2 dollars.
The Griffith Observatory offers free parking (more challenging to find on weekends) and a great way to view the sign from afar. If you’re looking to get as close as possible, they recommend three hiking trails: The Mount Hollywood Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and Cahuenga Peak Trail.
The Mount Hollywood Trail can be done in a little less than three hours and takes you along the eastern side. It is considered relatively easy. Parking can be found off North Vermont Canyon Road. The Cahuenga Peak Trail can be completed in less time but is a little more challenging as you’re climbing uphill and behind the sign. Parking can be found on Lake Hollywood Drive, and then you walk from there to access the trail.
You can also put your trust in the hands of a guide for the Mount Hollywood Hike. The price is $45 for a 3-hour hike that begins at The Greek Theatre and includes the best views of Los Angeles and The Hollywood Sign PLUS a FREE Water bottle. Reservations are a must.
Curious about the Brush Canyon Trail? I’m saving it for my big Hollywood ending.
In Conclusion: The Best Way to Reach The Hollywood Sign
The easiest trail that can get you closest to The Hollywood Sign is going to be the Brush Canyon Trail. It’s a relatively easy hike with a great viewpoint that lets you hold the sign in the palm of your hand – plus, it has parking on Canyon Drive and public restrooms. 
What a shitty website 😀
Everyone knows the pest lace to see the sign is at The Last House on Mulholland.
It’s fascinating to learn about the history of the Hollywood Sign and the upcoming centennial celebration. The Roaring 23 cocktail recipe sounds delicious and perfect for transporting you back to the golden age of Hollywood. Your tips on the best ways to enjoy the Hollywood Sign are also very helpful, especially for those who may not be up for a strenuous hike. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and insights on this iconic landmark.