This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Getting a shot from this vantage point is pretty rare. That's because in recent years, the Hollywood Sign has become more highly guarded than ever before, which means casual explorers, hiking enthusiasts, tormented would-be starlets, pranksters, and enemies of the state are kept at bay from the 86-year-old icon on the hillside.
But every now and then--apart from the heavy-handed "magic" of film--folks make their way* to the area, which is how LAist Featured Photos pool work the angles nabbed this shot. He explains:
Taken while out on a ranger led hike that was open to the public. This sign is guarded like the White House. Security features include hidden cameras that cover not only the sign itself but also paths of approach, thermal/infrared sensors to spot people trying to reach the sign at night, and of course a nearby helicopter that can be deployed at a moment's notice.
Learn more: LA Landmarks: The Hollywood Sign
*initially the access was described as being fully off-limits however to clarify, there is a way to travel to the point in the image via the road on foot without escort. Apologies for the confusion.
