Who would’ve thought that you could find a serene and natural escape amidst the hustle and bustle of Hollywood? Nestled between the Hollywood Hills and the 101 Freeway, Hollywood Reservoir is a perfect spot for enjoying some fresh air or going for a nice walk or jog outdoors.
The reservoir was built in 1924 as part of the Mullholland Dam and is still currently maintained by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Over 2.5 billion gallons of water fill up the reservoir and the size of the man-made lake will immediately impress you. But people also come to Hollywood Reservoir to get stunning views of the hills, Hollywood Sign, and gorgeous mansions. If you’re lucky, you might even see a deer!
The trail is about a 3.5 mile long loop. It’s also flat, making it a very easy hike, if you even want to call it that. There are two ways to get to the Hollywood Reservoir, but I like to start at the entrance on Weidlake Drive. When you enter through Weidlake, head left towards the bridge and you’ll see the Hollywood Sign perched up high above the vast reservoir.
Follow the cement path and you’ll eventually reach a gate at the end. To stay on the Hollywood Reservoir path, pass the gate and cross the street to a dirt sidewalk, heading right. The dirt path will ultimately guide you to another gate with “Hollywood” on it, which connects you back to the trail loop.
Hollywood Reservoir is a perfect place to exercise while social distancing from others. The trail is very wide, so it could accommodate groups of people. During the pandemic, a majority of people were wearing masks. Since the trail is flat with no incline, it’s a great place to take kids bike riding, scootering, or skating. I often see a lot of kids riding around or parents pushing their babies in strollers.
The gates to the reservoir open at 6:30 AM and close at sunset. Here is the schedule of when the gates close according to the months.
Overall, it’s great to have a stunning piece of nature (even if it’s man made) just a short drive north of Hollywood
HOLLYWOOD RESERVOIR
Info
Address: 6447 Weidlake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 or 2600 Lake Hollywood Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Hours of operation: 6:30 AM to sunset (See picture above for the schedule)
Parking: Free and ample amount of parking available on street and in lot
Deeelizious Tips
- The drive here is very narrow, windy, and goes through a residential neighborhood. Please drive slowly.
- Dogs are not permitted except service dogs
- Allot yourself around 1.5 hours to complete the loop trail
- Cell phone reception is very weak here
- You’ll pass by the “Hype House” where Tik Tok influencers reside if you enter the reservoir through the Weidlake Dr entrance. Be prepared to see a lot of people crowding the street.
- There are a couple of port-a-potties
If you’re looking for another great hike. Check out my blog on Topanga Canyon Lookout.
