Cahuenga Peak

Cahuenga Peak is a mountain summit in Griffith Park, Los Angeles, rising to 555 meters (1,820 feet) above sea level. From the top, views stretch across the Los Angeles Basin and San Fernando Valley in all directions.

Howard Hughes purchased the peak in the 1940s intending to build a residence for actress Ginger Rogers, but the property remained undeveloped. It eventually became protected land as part of the public park system.

The peak became part of Griffith Park after a public campaign that temporarily modified the Hollywood Sign. This effort showed how local communities can protect natural spaces from development.

The Wonder View Trail leads to the summit on a path that takes around 2 hours to complete. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and be prepared for a steep climb with significant elevation gain.

The mountain supports rare wildflower species like Plummer's mariposa lily and provides habitat for specialized butterfly and lizard species found in few other Los Angeles locations. These plants and animals have adapted to thrive on the rocky slopes.

Location: California

Elevation above the sea: 555 m

GPS coordinates: 34.13699,-118.32583

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:56