Los Angeles: Front & Back of Hollywood Sign Hike Guided Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see Los Angeles that combines stunning scenery, engaging storytelling, and a bit of exercise, this Hollywood Sign hike might be just what you need. While I haven’t done it myself, this tour consistently earns rave reviews for its knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and authentic experience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone eager to combine outdoor activity with LA’s iconic landmarks.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guided walk up to both the front and back of the Hollywood Sign offers a perspective few get on their own. Second, the stunning panoramic views of LA’s skyline, studios, and nature are hard to beat. Third, the local guides sprinkle in intriguing Hollywood stories that make the hike both fun and informative. That said, a potential drawback is that the walk covers nearly 4 miles on an easy to moderate trail, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with light hiking and not afraid to break a sweat.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and photography. Families with active kids, solo explorers, or couples seeking a memorable LA experience will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Value for Money: At $23 per person, this guided hike offers a lot of bang for your buck.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides like Katie, Josh, and Michael make the experience memorable.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic cityscapes, Hollywood studios, and natural scenery create perfect photo ops.
• Authentic Storytelling: Guides share fascinating Hollywood anecdotes, enriching the walk.
• Flexible Scenery: From the Hollywood Sign to Griffith Park and even celebrity landmarks, each stop adds a new dimension.
• Physical Activity: About 4 miles of moderate trail means it’s suitable for most healthy beginners and intermediate hikers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off at 6298 Innsdale Trail, a spot that can be confusing if you’re not careful. Do not navigate to Innsdale Trailhead, which is nearby but not the meeting point. Instead, aim for the intersection of Innsdale Drive and Canyon Lake Drive, and meet your guide outside behind the white gate, next to the Smokey Bear sign. Guides don a neon yellow Bikes & Hikes vest, making them easy to spot. Arrive 15 minutes early because punctuality is key — latecomers can’t be accommodated, and the tour moves on promptly.

Parking is included, which is a plus considering LA traffic, but be prepared that no restrooms are available on the route so plan accordingly.

The Guided Walk & Hike

The adventure begins with a 30-minute walk through Griffith Park, led by a certified guide who shares insights about Los Angeles’ history, Hollywood, and the natural environment. The trail is described as easy to moderate — about 4 miles in total — so a reasonable level of fitness is needed. Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a charged phone are essentials, especially since the views are so photo-worthy.

Reviewers specifically mention guides like Katie, Michael, Noelle, and Josh for their expertise and friendly manner. As one reviewer noted, “Mark was an excellant guide, very informative and told thorough interesting stories,” which speaks to how guides bring the experience to life.

Stops and Highlights

Hollywood Hills & Scenic Viewpoints

Your first major stop is the Hollywood Hills, where the walk begins. Expect a guided tour, with photo stops and scenic vistas. Reviewers mention that guides like Noelle excel at taking beautiful photos of participants and sharing funny and interesting stories about the area.

The Hollywood Sign – A Close Encounter

The highlight of the tour? A front and back view of the Hollywood Sign. The guides help you find flattering angles and optimal lighting, perfect for social media. From here, you get a bird’s eye view of Warner Bros., Disney, and Universal Studios, making it a photographer’s paradise. Guests have described this as “an incredible photo opportunity,” with one reviewer stating, “the views during the hike were awesome!”

Behind the Sign

Unique to this tour is the chance to go behind the Hollywood Sign, offering a perspective few visitors see. One reviewer shared, “From there, it’s an easy walk back down,” but the angle from behind the sign is a real treat — providing that classic Hollywood experience from a fresh vantage point.

Griffith Observatory & Additional Landmarks

On the way back, the tour offers scenic drives and brief stops at Griffith Observatory, Downtown LA, Sunset Strip, Warner Bros. Studios, and Forest Lawn Memorial Park — famous for Hollywood celebrities. While these are views on the move, they add context to LA’s sprawling landscape and entertainment industry.

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Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, striking a good balance between exploration and comfort. Group sizes tend to be manageable, led by guides who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

What’s Included & Exclusions

For just $23, the tour includes a guided walk, water, parking, and a certified guide. Note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation. Since no transportation is provided, arriving on time is crucial.

The Reviews – What Tourists Are Saying

Guides like Katie, Josh, Michael, and Noelle consistently receive high praise. Reviewers mention their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to take great photos. For example, one reviewer said, “Josh went above and beyond to make our tour memorable,” while another raved that “Katie was an amazing guide with a genuine love for the area.”

The views are often described as breathtaking. Several guests expressed how the photo stops and viewpoints allowed for stunning pictures and memorable moments. One reviewer commented that timing the walk to sunset made the landscape even more spectacular — a tip worth considering if your schedule allows.

Authentic Stories & Local Insights

It’s clear guides do more than just lead a walk; they share stories about Hollywood, the sign’s history, and LA’s natural environment. These anecdotes make the experience richer, and many guests appreciated the informative commentary. Several reviews mention guides being funny, lively, and friendly, which enhances the overall vibe.

Value & Price

At $23 per person, this tour is considered exceptionally good value. It combines outdoor activity, expert guidance, and scenic views all in one affordable package — especially if you’re into photography or want a behind-the-scenes look at LA’s most famous icon.

Potential Drawbacks

While the walk is described as easy to moderate, some guests with mobility issues or those uncomfortable with heights might find certain parts challenging. The no restrooms on the trail is worth noting, so bring water and a small snack if needed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy scenic walks and want to avoid crowded tourist spots. It’s also ideal for photo enthusiasts eager to capture iconic views, and Hollywood fans interested in learning more about the history behind the sign and LA’s film industry. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun outdoor activity will find plenty to enjoy.

The Sum Up

This guided Hollywood Sign hike offers an accessible, engaging way to see Los Angeles from a perspective few travelers experience. With expert guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to get behind the scenes of one of Hollywood’s most famous symbols, it’s a great value at just $23. The natural scenery combined with storytelling makes it a memorable addition to any LA trip.

It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a personalized experience without the crowds. If you’re after authenticity, great photos, and local insights, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the walk covers about 4 miles on an easy to moderate trail, so children who are comfortable with walking should be fine.

Do I need to bring my own water or snacks?
Water is included, but no snacks are provided. It’s wise to bring water and a small snack, especially if you plan to hike in warmer weather.

Are restrooms available during the tour?
No, there are no restrooms on the trail, so plan accordingly before starting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone for photos are recommended.

Can I book this last minute?
Availability varies; check in advance as the tour runs at specific times and groups are limited.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point at 6298 Innsdale Trail.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, heart, respiratory issues, or pre-existing medical conditions. It’s best for healthy individuals comfortable with walking and light hiking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute plans.

Can I take a drone or stroller?
Drones and baby strollers are not allowed on the trail.

This Hollywood Sign hike offers a rewarding and affordable way to see Los Angeles from a natural, less touristy angle, making it an experience worth considering for your LA itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: