Gain a close-up view of the Hollywood Sign on a guided Brush Canyon ascent that rewards steady uphill effort with sweeping Los Angeles panoramas. This 2–2.5 hour hike blends film history, geology, and expertly timed photo stops.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You meet at the Brush Canyon trailhead as the city stretches below — an urban sprawl of glass and palm trees that the trail soon shrinks to a distant grid. The first steps push uphill on a wide, unpaved dirt track; sunlight dares you around the scrubby ridges while a warm wind pushes across exposed slopes. By the time the white letters loom, the valley has opened into a sequence of viewpoints where LA looks both intimate and enormous.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for walkers in good cardio shape comfortable with sustained uphill sections and brief steep pitches.
Wildlife
History
The Hollywood Sign began in 1923 as a real-estate advertisement reading "Hollywoodland"; Griffith Park was donated to Los Angeles by Colonel Griffith J. Griffith to be used for public recreation.
Conservation
Trails cross fragile chaparral that recovers slowly from disturbance—stay on marked paths, pack out waste, and avoid trampling vegetation to protect the park’s ecology.
Reserve your spot on the Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike and Tour By Junket today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate before and during the hike
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water—there’s no potable water on the trail and LA sun can dehydrate you quickly.
Wear grippy footwear
Loose dirt and gravel on the ascent require shoes with good traction and ankle support.
Start early
Begin in the morning to avoid heat, crowds, and harsh midday light for photos.
Respect closures and fences
Do not cross barriers around the sign or enter restricted areas; the tour follows approved viewpoints and routes.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Firm footing and ankle support for loose dirt and gravel sections.
1–2 L water bottle or hydration bladder
Maintain hydration in exposed sun; refill points are not available on-trail.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Long sun exposure on ridgelines makes UV protection essential.
summer
Light wind layer
Temperatures can drop and breezes pick up on the summit, so pack a thin jacket.
spring