101 Hikes in Southern California. Jerry Schad

Park

      Highlights: Hollywood sign

      Distance: 3.2 miles (out-and-back)

      Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 750'/750'

      Hiking Time: 1½ hours

      Optional Map: USGS 7.5-minute Burbank

      Best Times: All year

      Agency: GP

      Difficulty: Moderate

      Trail Use: Suitable for mountain biking, dogs allowed, good for kids

      Mount Lee is recognizable around the world for the iconic Hollywood sign. This trip draws a steady stream of hikers to see the sign up close. Located at the western end of Griffith Park, Mount Lee also provides a stupendous view of Los Angeles and out to the Pacific Ocean. Don’t mix up this summit with nearby Mount Hollywood, which is not the site of the eponymous sign.

      To Reach the Trailhead: From the westbound 101 Freeway, take Exit 8C for Gower St. Before the ramp reaches Gower St., turn right onto Beachwood Dr. Follow Beachwood Dr. 1.9 miles north to its end in the Hollywood Hills just outside Sunset Ranch Stables. Park in the dirt hikers lot; if this parking lot is full, head a quarter mile south to look for streetside parking.

      Description: The broad Hollyridge Trail climbs briefly south to a saddle with an excellent view of the Hollywood sign. It makes a hairpin turn and continues north to a junction with Mulholland Highway (here, an unpaved road) in 0.5 mile.

      Turn hard left and follow it 0.3 mile, then turn right onto the Mount Lee Service Road (paved but closed to traffic). Continue 0.9 mile to the road’s end immediately above the sign. The sheer slope is fenced off to discourage vandalism.

      Hollywood sign over Hollyridge Trail

      HIKE 16

      Verdugo Mountains: South End Loop

      Location: Glendale

      Highlights: Incomparable city and regional views

      Distance: 6 miles (loop)

      Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,500'/1,500'

      Hiking Time: 3½ hours

      Optional Maps: USGS 7.5-min Pasadena, Burbank

      Best Times: November–May

      Agency: GPR

      Difficulty: Moderately strenuous

      Trail Use: Suitable for mountain biking, dogs allowed

      The Verdugo Mountains stand as a remarkable island of undeveloped land—a haven for wildlife such as deer and coyotes—completely encircled by an urbanized domain. Public access to the network of trails and fire roads on the mountain is by foot, horse, or mountain bike—great news if you’re looking for a quick escape from the ubiquitous automobile and the pressures of city life.