Griffith Park


Diverse, large and iconic, Griffith Park offers an array of activities including hiking to view the famous Hollywood Sign, visiting outdoor areas where film and TV scenes have been shot, picnicking, horseback riding, and enjoying panoramic views of Los Angeles and beyond. Located in the Santa Monica Mountain Range, and over 4,000 acres in size, this remarkable municipal park features wild, natural areas filled with native species, as well as developed parts, including the Griffith Observatory, Autry Museum of the American West, the L.A. Zoo,  golf, and Travel Town.

With over 50 miles of trails, there are many great hikes including: the trail from the Griffith Park Observatory to the summit of Mount Hollywood, the short trail to Bronson Caves, the lush walking paths at Fern Dell, and a variety of trails to view the Hollywood sign. Watch for birds and other wildlife, as well as special features like rock labyrinths. 


Details


Location

4730 Crystal Springs, Los Angeles

Managed By

City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Distance from UCSB

98 mi

How To Get There

Drive, Bus (takes time)

Things To Do

Birdwatching, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Other Recreational Activities, Picnicking, Playground/Swings, Playing on Grass Activities, Relaxing, Running, Viewing, Walking

Fun Facts

The Park is named after Griffith J. Griffith who donated over 3,000 acres to the City of Los Angeles in 1896. Further donations and acquisitions of land expanded the park, including over 400 acres of Hollywoodland open space, which encompasses the famous Hollywood sign.

Many famous movie and TV scenes have been shot in Griffith Park, especially at Bronson Canyon/Cave (Bat Cave entrance in the 1960’s Batman series, the 1956 Invasion of the Body Snatchers movie, etc.) and in Griffith Park Observatory area (La La Land, Rebel Without a Cause, and more).

Other Information

There is a very helpful downloadable map of the Park.

The Parkline Shuttle provides transportation throughout the park; and the DASH Observatory Shuttle is a good way to get into the park.

The Friends of Griffith Park site has a great online “Plant and Animal Species of Griffith Park guide, as does iNaturalist.

Best Time To Visit

Spring, Fall, Winter

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