Mt. Hollywood from the Griffith Park Observatory

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This hike uses the Charlie Turner Trail, Lower Mount Hollywood Trail, East Ridge (Hogback) Trail, and Mt. Hollywood Trail to take you to the top of Mt. Hollywood, which sits at 1,625 ft.

While there are numerous routes in Griffith Park that lead to the summit of Mt. Hollywood, this route from the Griffith Park Observatory is by far the most popular among L.A. locals and visitors alike.

This hike begins with the Charlie Turner Trail at the north end of the Griffith Park Observatory parking area. From here, the trail heads to the north on a dirt path that eventually goes over the top of the Vermont Canyon Rd. tunnel. The trail then makes its way to the northwest while gradually climbing up the hillside before wrapping around a 180-degree bend. After a little over 3/10 of a mile, the trail will then come to an end at a four-way junction just south of the Mt. Hollywood summit.

From here, go straight to link up with the Lower Mount Hollywood Trail and briefly hike to the northeast until you reach Dante's View, which hosts a water fountain and picnic tables. The Lower Mount Hollywood Trail ends here and you can turn left at Dante's View on the East Ridge (Hogback) Trail.

Stay on the East Ridge (Hogback) Trail for a couple of hundred feet before making another left turn to join the Mt. Hollywood Trail. After hiking for a little over 1/10 of a mile, you'll reach the Mt. Hollywood summit. From here, you'll have fantastic views of the entire L.A. Basin and on particularly clear days you might be able to see Mount San Gorgonio, Baldy, and San Jacinto. Once you've enjoyed the views you can return to the Griffith Park Observatory along the same route.

Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.