Mount Lee Summit

Overview

Mount Lee Summit, perched majestically within Los Angeles' sprawling Griffith Park, is a legendary peak synonymous with the iconic Hollywood Sign. Rising to an elevation of 1,708 feet (521 meters), this summit in the Santa Monica Mountains offers unparalleled panoramic vistas of the vast Los Angeles basin, the shimmering Hollywood Reservoir, and the distant San Fernando Valley. While the famed Hollywood Sign itself is protected and not directly accessible, the summit of Mount Lee provides a unique and memorable perspective, allowing visitors to stand directly behind the letters and gaze out over the city that epitomizes dreams and cinematic history. [1, 5, 10, 23]

History & Cultural Background

The story of Mount Lee is deeply intertwined with the narrative of Los Angeles itself, a tale of ambition, entertainment, and evolving landscapes. Before its current name, Mount Lee was one of the 'three sisters' peaks, alongside Cahuenga and Burbank peaks. [1, 10, 24] Its distinct flattened top is not a natural geological feature but rather the result of a grand, unfulfilled vision by silent movie pioneer Mack Sennett, who planned to build an elaborate mansion there in the 1920s. [1, 10, 15, 17, 24] His financial fortunes shifted, and the mansion never materialized, leaving behind the distinctive flat summit. [17]

The mountain eventually took its name from Don Lee, an early Los Angeles car dealer and a pioneering figure in radio and television. [1, 10, 15, 24] In 1927, Lee acquired radio station KHJ, and by 1931, his experimental television station, W6XAO, began broadcasting from Mount Lee's summit. [1, 10, 18, 24] This made Mount Lee, for a time, the highest television broadcasting location in the world. [1, 10, 18]

The most famous landmark on its slopes, the Hollywood Sign, began its life in 1923 not as a symbol of the film industry, but as a temporary advertisement for a real estate development called 'Hollywoodland.' [2, 3, 4, 8, 11, 13] Erected by a syndicate that included Los Angeles Times publisher Harry Chandler, the original sign spelled out 'HOLLYWOODLAND' in 50-foot-tall wooden letters, illuminated by some 4,000 twenty-watt bulbs that flashed 'Holly,' then 'Wood,' then 'Land,' before lighting up entirely. [4, 8, 9, 15, 19] Intended to last only about 18 months, its immense popularity ensured its survival. [2, 3, 4, 9, 15] In 1945, the surrounding land, including the sign, was donated to the City of Los Angeles and became part of Griffith Park. [2, 11] By 1949, due to disrepair, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce stepped in, refurbishing the sign and removing the 'LAND' suffix, solidifying its identity as the 'Hollywood Sign' we know today. [2, 3, 9, 11, 13, 19]

What Makes It Special

Mount Lee Summit holds a unique place as a cultural icon and a natural viewpoint. It offers an unparalleled perspective of the Hollywood Sign, allowing visitors to approach the landmark from behind and appreciate its massive scale. [12, 23, 25] Beyond the sign, the summit delivers breathtaking 360-degree views that stretch from downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean on clear days, encompassing the diverse tapestry of the city below. [12, 23, 25] This vantage point transforms a mere sightseeing opportunity into an immersive experience, offering a sense of accomplishment after the invigorating hike to its top. It's a place where natural beauty meets the mythology of Hollywood, providing both serene landscapes and a tangible connection to cinematic history. [10]

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The history of Mount Lee and its famous sign is rich with anecdotes. One of the most somber tales is that of actress Peg Entwistle, who tragically took her own life by jumping from the 'H' of the original 'Hollywoodland' sign in 1932, bringing a dark chapter to its early history. [3, 15, 16] The sign has also been a frequent target for playful alterations over the years, modified to read 'Hollyweed' (notably in 1976 and 2017 to mark changes in marijuana laws) and 'Holywood' for Pope John Paul II's visit. [2, 9, 15, 16]

In the late 1970s, the sign had deteriorated significantly. Public figures rallied to save it, with Hugh Hefner hosting a fundraiser that saw individuals like Alice Cooper 'buying' letters to fund its restoration. The current, more durable steel and concrete sign was erected in 1978 thanks to these efforts. [4, 9, 15, 22] Visitors exploring the trails around Mount Lee should also be aware of the local wildlife, which includes coyotes and rattlesnakes, adding a touch of wilderness to the urban-adjacent landscape. [14, 30]

Visitor Perspective

Reaching Mount Lee Summit is a rewarding experience, primarily accessed through several well-maintained hiking trails within Griffith Park. Popular starting points include the areas near the Griffith Observatory, the Brush Canyon Trail, or Lake Hollywood Park. [1, 10, 12, 23, 26, 31] While the immediate area directly around the Hollywood Sign letters is fenced off for protection and safety, the hiking routes lead to viewing areas, including the summit itself, which sits just behind the sign. [1, 12, 23] From this vantage point, hikers get an exclusive 'backstage' view of the letters and expansive vistas of Los Angeles. [12, 23] Hikes can range from moderate to challenging, with trails like the Mount Hollywood Trail offering steady climbs and the Brush Canyon Trail providing a longer route to the summit. [10, 12, 31] It's advisable for travelers to wear sturdy shoes, carry plenty of water, and check trail conditions, especially during warmer months. Parking is available, often at Lake Hollywood Park, which serves as a common starting point for many hikers. [12, 23]