Hollywood Reservoir

The basics

Spend an hour or two walking the 3.5-mile (5.5-kilometer) trail around the reservoir. Along the way, check out the surrounding mansions and the dam’s 1920s architecture, snap photos of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA, and even spot local wildlife—deer, turtles, and a variety of birds are known to frequent the park.

Visiting the reservoir with a resident expert is also an option. Hollywood hiking tours often stop by the site as an alternative to more frequented areas like Runyon Canyon, giving travelers a different perspective of the iconic hills.

Things to know before you go

• The Hollywood Reservoir trail is flat and paved, making it one of the more accessible hikes in the area.

• The best spot for a photo op comes halfway around the trail at the Mulholland Dam, offering clear views of the Hollywood Sign.

• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

• While public toilets and water fountains are available, it’s best to pack extra water, snacks, and sunscreen.

• If you’d like to go for a longer hike, the reservoir has a number of trailheads leading closer to the Hollywood Sign.

How to get there

Driving is the best way to get to the Hollywood Reservoir, which is nestled in the hills just west of Griffith Park. Look for street parking on the north side of the reservoir on Lake Hollywood Drive, and the gated entrance will be just a few steps away.

When to get there

The Hollywood Reservoir is open daily (except for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Day) from early morning until sunset. Give yourself at least 30 minutes to exit the park before sundown, as employees will close the gates. While LA weather is famously pleasant, this trail has little shade, so avoid visiting midday or during the hotter months.

Don’t miss these local gems

While most visitors flock to Griffith Park and Universal Studios, there’s more under-the-radar fun to be had near the Hollywood Reservoir. For a quick detour on the way to the trail, check out the quirky Hollywood Sculpture Garden, showcasing more than 100 sculptures from around the world, on Vasanta Way. After your reservoir loop, the best picnic spot nearby is the grassy lawn at Lake Hollywood Park.