Wisdom Tree TrailLOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Wisdom Tree Trail

One tree. A whole city below.

Explore the Trail

Landscape illustration

Trail Overview

A lone pine on Burbank Peak marks one of the distinctive viewpoints of the Hollywood Hills. The Wisdom Tree hike climbs above the streets near Lake Hollywood into the western end of Griffith Park.

This guide follows the out-and-back approach from Wonder View Drive. It ends at the tree, with a return along the same trail.

The hike at a glance

Round trip
About 1.6–1.8 miles
Elevation gain
About 740 ft
Route
Out and back
Terrain
Steep & rocky

Approximate figures vary with the starting point. Walking from your parking spot can add distance.

Before heading out: check current park notices, weather and posted restrictions. Heat, fire conditions and rain can affect access and footing.

The Hike to the Wisdom Tree

A short route with a proper uphill climb.

  1. Walk up Wonder View Drive

    From Lake Hollywood Drive, walk east along Wonder View Drive toward the gate at the road end. Respect the homes and driveways along the way.

  2. Find the Burbank Peak Trail

    Beyond the gate, follow the access road to the dirt trail climbing the hillside. This approach is also known as the Wonder View Trail.

  3. Climb to the ridge

    The narrow trail climbs steeply over rough ground. Take your time and stay on the established route.

  4. Visit the tree, then return

    At the ridge, the short spur west leads to the Wisdom Tree on Burbank Peak. Return the way you came. The ridge trail continuing east toward Cahuenga Peak is a different, longer outing.

Getting Here & Parking

Approach: Lake Hollywood Drive and Wonder View Drive, Los Angeles. Look for permitted street parking on Lake Hollywood Drive, then walk up Wonder View Drive.

There is no trailhead parking at the end of Wonder View Drive. Read current parking signs, keep driveways clear and allow space for residents and emergency vehicles.

A different destination from the Hollywood Sign

This guide ends at the Wisdom Tree. Continuing to Cahuenga Peak or Mount Lee adds distance and climbing. Carry a map and plan that extension separately.

A Few Common Questions

Is this a loop?

No. This route returns to Wonder View Drive along the same trail.

Is it an easy walk?

The distance is short, but the ascent is steep and the trail is rough. Expect more effort than a paved park walk.

Does this route reach the Hollywood Sign?

No. The Wisdom Tree is on Burbank Peak. The Hollywood Sign is farther east on Mount Lee and requires a longer route.

Will there be shade?

Do not count on shade along the climb. Carry water and plan around the heat.

Can I park at the trail gate?

Plan to walk from permitted street parking on Lake Hollywood Drive. Follow posted restrictions around Wonder View Drive.