Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign consists of nine white capital letters on the southern slope of Mount Lee, each roughly 14 meters high and together spanning over 100 meters. It stands against a forested hillside backdrop and remains visible from various points across the San Fernando Valley and downtown Los Angeles.

Construction workers installed the sign in 1923 as temporary real estate advertising for the Hollywoodland housing development and removed the last four letters in 1949. The letters deteriorated over decades until donations for a full restoration in the late 1970s saved the structure.

The white letters draw people from around the world who recognize them as a symbol of the film business and often make pilgrimages to selfie spots around the city. Locals see the sign as part of their daily life, visible during neighborhood walks or commutes through town.

Hiking trails in Griffith Park lead to viewpoints near the sign, with some routes requiring moderate uphill climbs on paved paths. Morning hours often offer clearer views and fewer crowds at popular photo spots along the trails.

Hikers cannot approach the letters directly, as a protected zone with fencing and surveillance prevents close access. The surrounding hillside was secured through community fundraising to block development plans that would have altered the backdrop behind the structure.

Location: Los Angeles

Inception: 1923

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Operator: The Trust for Public Land

Address: Mount Lee Drive

Website: http://hollywoodsign.org

GPS coordinates: 34.13410,-118.32165

Latest update: December 21, 2025 10:13