Hollywood Sign from Griffith Observatory: Hike with photo stops

Hike up Griffith Park for close-up views of the Hollywood Sign and Observatory terraces

You hike through Griffith Park for an hour with a local guide who knows the Observatory's history inside out, stop frequently to photograph the Hollywood Sign up close, and get admission to Griffith Observatory included so you can see the exhibits and terraces. The climb is steady but not brutal, and the guide handles the pacing so you're not gasping the whole way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Griffith Park2h
2. Hollywood Signpassing by
3. Griffith Observatorypassing by

Hike to Hollywood Sign and Observatory

• Hike in Griffith Park
• Pass by Ennis House and celebrity homes
• View Frank Lloyd Wright's Ennis House exterior
• See Hollywood Sign from a distance
• Visit Griffith Observatory terraces

The experience

So you're standing there looking at the Hollywood Sign from a distance on every other tour, right? This one actually gets you close enough that it fills your whole frame, and the guide (who used to work at the Observatory) knows exactly where the light hits it best for photos. The hike climbs the equivalent of about 20 flights of stairs over an hour at a pace that lets you stop and breathe, not race. You'll pass Frank Lloyd Wright's Ennis House on the way up, catch sight of those multi-million dollar homes tucked into the hillside, and if you're lucky, spot a film crew shooting a scene along the trail.

The real thing about this hike is that it's not just cardio with a view. Your guide talks through the actual history of Griffith Park and the Observatory as you go: why the land was donated, how the trails got built, what you're looking at when you see the LA skyline spread out below. You get water, frequent stops to catch your breath and take photos, and by the time you reach the Observatory, the Hollywood Sign is right there behind you, which is the shot everyone wants. Then you have a choice: enter Griffith Observatory (it's closed Mondays, so check that) to see the astronomy exhibits and the real telescopes, or take the short hike back down with your guide if you're done.

The whole thing assumes you can handle a moderate climb and won't mind doing it in whatever weather shows up, dress in layers. You need at least two adults booking together, and if you've got kids, they should be older than four. Public transit gets you to the start, so you don't need a car.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided hike through Griffith Park with a local guide, admission to Griffith Observatory, bottled water, and frequent stops to photograph the Hollywood Sign and take in the LA skyline. You'll pass landmarks like Frank Lloyd Wright's Ennis House and have the option to explore the Observatory's exhibits and terraces after the hike, or return with your guide.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day5 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 17:00

Book up to2d before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by ExperienceFirst

Is this one for you?Right for travelers who want the Hollywood Sign in their photos without guessing where to stand, and who have an hour to climb at a steady pace. Plan for moderate physical effort. The stairs are real, and that's what gets you the view.

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Top questions

How long is the hike to the Hollywood Sign?

About one hour at a leisurely pace with frequent stops. You'll climb the equivalent of 20 flights of stairs total.

Do I get to touch the Hollywood Sign or get really close?

You get close enough for photos with the sign filling your frame, but it's viewed from a distance on the trail. You're not walking up to it.

Is Griffith Observatory admission included?

Yes, admission is included. The Observatory is closed Mondays. You can enter after the hike or skip it and hike back down instead.

What if I'm not in great shape?

The tour is designed for moderate fitness. You should be comfortable climbing 20 flights of stairs over an hour with stops. It's not recommended if you have poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries.

Do I need a car to get there?

No. Public transportation options are available near the start of the hike.

What's included besides the hike and Observatory entry?

A local guide, bottled water, and the route itself: designed by a former Observatory employee.

Can I bring young children?

Not recommended for children under 4 years old.

What if it rains?

The tour operates in all weather. Dress appropriately for the conditions.