Mulholland Drive
The Iconic Scenic Route with Breathtaking Views of Los Angeles
About Mulholland Drive
Mulholland Drive is one of Los Angeles' most iconic and scenic roads, stretching 21 miles along the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains. Named after William Mulholland, the engineer who designed the Los Angeles Aqueduct, this legendary route offers unparalleled views of the city, the San Fernando Valley, and the Pacific Ocean.
From its eastern terminus in Hollywood to its western end near the Pacific Coast Highway, Mulholland Drive winds through some of LA's most exclusive neighborhoods, providing access to numerous lookout points, hiking trails, and hidden gems that showcase the natural beauty and urban sprawl of Los Angeles.
Route Length
21 miles (34 km)
Hollywood to Pacific Coast Highway
Best Time to Visit
Sunset and early evening
For the best city light views
Scenic Viewpoints & Lookouts
Mulholland Scenic Overlook
The most famous and accessible viewpoint along Mulholland Drive, offering panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley, downtown Los Angeles, and the Hollywood sign. This popular spot features parking, picnic areas, and interpretive displays.
Views:
- • Downtown Los Angeles skyline
- • Hollywood sign
- • San Fernando Valley
- • Griffith Observatory
- • Sunset Strip
Amenities:
- • Parking lot
- • Picnic tables
- • Interpretive signs
- • Restrooms
- • Sunset viewing
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Located at the southern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, this viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Los Angeles basin, downtown skyline, and on clear days, views extending to the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island.
Panoramic Views:
- • Downtown LA skyline
- • Los Angeles basin
- • Pacific Ocean
- • Catalina Island (clear days)
- • Hollywood Hills
Activities:
- • Hiking trails
- • Photography
- • Sunset watching
- • Picnicking
- • Fitness stairs
Fryman Canyon Overlook
A hidden gem offering intimate views of the San Fernando Valley and Studio City. This quieter viewpoint provides a more peaceful experience away from the crowds of the main overlook.
Scenic Highlights:
- • Studio City
- • Universal Studios
- • San Fernando Valley
- • Burbank
- • Warner Bros. Studios
Features:
- • Less crowded
- • Peaceful atmosphere
- • Easy parking
- • Hiking access
- • Wildlife viewing
Temescal Canyon Overlook
Located near the Pacific Coast Highway end of Mulholland Drive, this viewpoint offers stunning ocean views and a different perspective of the Los Angeles coastline and Santa Monica Mountains.
Ocean Views:
- • Pacific Ocean
- • Santa Monica Bay
- • Malibu coastline
- • Topanga Canyon
- • Sunset views
Access:
- • Hiking trails
- • Beach access
- • Wildlife viewing
- • Photography spots
- • Coastal breezes
Hiking Trails & Outdoor Activities
Runyon Canyon Park
One of LA's most popular hiking destinations, Runyon Canyon offers multiple trails with varying difficulty levels, all providing spectacular views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
Trail Options:
- • Easy loop (1.3 miles)
- • Moderate trail (2.7 miles)
- • Challenging climb (3.3 miles)
- • Dog-friendly paths
- • Sunset hikes
Highlights:
- • Hollywood sign views
- • Downtown LA skyline
- • Griffith Observatory
- • Celebrity sightings
- • Fitness enthusiasts
Fryman Canyon Park
A quieter alternative to Runyon Canyon, Fryman Canyon offers peaceful hiking trails through native chaparral with views of the San Fernando Valley and Studio City.
Trail Features:
- • 2.5-mile loop trail
- • Moderate difficulty
- • Shaded sections
- • Wildlife viewing
- • Peaceful atmosphere
Scenic Views:
- • San Fernando Valley
- • Studio City
- • Universal Studios
- • Burbank
- • Warner Bros. Studios
Temescal Canyon Trail
Located at the western end of Mulholland Drive, this trail offers a more rugged hiking experience with ocean views and access to the Pacific Coast Highway.
Trail Details:
- • 3.2-mile round trip
- • Moderate to strenuous
- • Waterfall (seasonal)
- • Ocean views
- • Beach access
Natural Features:
- • Native chaparral
- • Oak woodlands
- • Seasonal streams
- • Wildlife habitat
- • Coastal influence
Driving Experience & Tips
Driving Mulholland Drive is an experience unlike any other in Los Angeles. The winding road offers spectacular views around every turn, but requires attention and respect for the challenging terrain and other drivers.
Driving Tips
- •Take it slow
Winding roads require careful navigation
- •Pull over safely
Use designated viewpoints for photos
- •Watch for cyclists
Share the road with bike riders
- •Check weather
Fog can reduce visibility
Best Times to Drive
- •Sunset (5-7 PM)
Golden hour lighting and city lights
- •Early morning (6-8 AM)
Clear views and less traffic
- •Weekdays
Less crowded than weekends
- •Clear days
Best visibility for distant views
Luxury Transportation Services
Scenic Tours
Guided tours of Mulholland Drive with stops at viewpoints
Sunset Tours
Evening drives to catch the best sunset views
Photography Tours
Professional photo opportunities at prime locations
Hiking Shuttles
Transportation to and from hiking trailheads
Quick Facts
Visitor Tips
- •Visit during sunset for best views
- •Bring camera and binoculars
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Check weather before visiting
- •Respect private property
- •Consider guided tours for safety
Ready to Experience the Views?
Let us handle your transportation so you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking views of Mulholland Drive. From scenic tours to sunset drives, we've got you covered.