Text from my original event post: “Built in 1921 as an advertisement for the Hollywoodland real estate development, the towering letters of the HOLLYWOOD sign have beckoned millions to Los Angeles. From starry eyed Midwestern actors with their dreams packed in suitcases to the background to Hollywood based movies, the Hollywood sign has captured the hearts of millions and inspired more stranger than fiction tales than a jaded casting agent’s office can hold.”

I was so excited to do this hike as the first hike with The Great Outdoors Photography Group. Not only does the Hollyridge trail offer stunning views of the Los Angeles Basin and the Greater San Fernando Valley (plus parts of Pasadena in the far east), but it also offers the most up close and personal view of the Hollywood sign.

The group was ecstatic to see the sun set among the Hollywood Hills. I was excited that I was finally able to get a great night shot of the LA Basin framed by the letters of the Sign. Cheyenne was happy to just be out and sneak bites of horse manure.

Being my fourth time to the Hollywood Sign, it was great to take a member’s suggestion and go a little beyond my usual route and take a full frontal shot of the letters.

The drink and snack combo and payment toward the meetup.com group fee worked out much better than expected. Turns out that respecting people and being honest is truly the best policy.

I also introduced the group to some cool ideas that I’m thinking about, which went over quite well.

Best of all? Hiking and being in nature with a great group of people, my camera and my dog. It was a perfect way to end a rather interesting weekend.

More photos and original post at the group website here: http://www.meetup.com/outdoorphotos/calendar/11393434/

Gallery:

An Evening Hike to the Hollywood Sign