Summit Mount Hollywood via the Fern Canyon Trail

At 1,625 feet Mt Hollywood is the second highest point in Griffith Park and provides picturesque views of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park Observatory, Downtown Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Mountains.

The hike to the Mt Hollywood Summit begins on the northeast side of Griffith Park near the famed Griffith Park Merry Go Round. Start in the merry go round parking area and head toward the fire roads located above the parking lot. Look for the third fire road on you left, this is Fern Canyon Trail and the start of your hike. The beginning of you adventure takes you up through Fern Canyon, make sure to stay left at the first 2 junctions and avoid the trails leading to the Old Zoo and Bee Rock respectively. 

1.2 miles into your hike the trail will open up to a 5-way junction with trails to Beacon Hill on your immediate left, Coolidge Trail continuing straight ahead, and Upper Beacon Trail to your left. Take Upper Beacon Trail on the right and continue your ascent passing Joe Klass Water Stop (good place for first break, water fountain, shade and benches) and make your way on to the paved road of Vista Del Valle Dr. Follow Vista Del Valle Dr for 0.3 miles, you will pass the Griffith Park Helipad, a great place to stop, snap a few picture or enjoy a sunset. About 300 feet past the helipad is a green outhouse with two dirt trails behind it. Take East Ridge Trail on the right and hike 0.3 miles until you reach a bridge.

At the bridge you can choose to add Glendale Peak to your day's adventure by using Henry's Trail, climbing above you and to the right. If you prefer to save Glendale Peak for another day, stay left on Hogback Trail crossing over the bridge and begin a tough 0.5 mile climb to Dante's View Point. 

Dante's View is a fairly large picnic area and garden compete with tables, benches, and water faucets to refill your water bottles or give your dog a much needed drink.  

Once you have caught your breath and replenished your water reservoirs, continue on Hogback Trail and begin the final push to the summit. 0.1 miles past Dante's View you will see a 4-way intersection, turn left and hike the final 0.2 miles to the Summit of Mount Hollywood. 

Now you have multiple options for returning to your car. Either you can retrace your steps and descend back down Hogback Trail, or you choose to create a loop. To make a loop head west on North Trail. This will give you a few different options to chose from that snake back down to the Griffith Park Merry Go Round.