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.
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To join, please visit: http://www.meetup.com/outdoorphotos/calendar/11393434/
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.
But, did you know that you can hike to the top of Mt. Lee and view Hollywood and the surrounding landscape amidst the sign? Come join fellow photographers and experience the expansive landscape of Los Angles and the San Fernando Valley, culminating at the top of Mt. Lee at the Hollywood Sign.
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Saturday afternoon, while recovering from the Silver Lake photo walk, I sat like a zombie in front of my computer. While discussing the evening’s options, the following IM message popped up on the screen:
“Lets go to Vegas!”
Normally, I would jump at the chance to wander around a Vegas casino. I enjoy staring at the eyes of people bitten by the gambling bug, watching people play craps and guessing which patrons are actually women of evening trying to find a client. It’s voyeurism at it’s finest (along with some great shows). However, as I had the “Potluck and a Beach Sunset Over Malibu at El Matador State Beach” event the next day at 6pm and it was hot as hell in Vegas, clearly this would not be the best option.
So, when he suggested going to Joshua Tree and wrote the magical words “It’s only two hours away”, my camera and I were ready for the trip.
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Malibu Creek State Park is one of those hidden spots in the Santa Monica Mountain range that has something for everyone, depending on the season. Even in the summer heat of July, I found plenty to see. Rabbits, lizards, hidden streams and, of course, the M*A*S*H filming site were all available for the discerning eye.
However, my two days at Malibu Creek were yet another experience of how one day in Southern California can vary greatly from the next.
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Fryman Canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains in the San Fernando Valley and Towsley Canyon in Santa Clarita Valley are two great spots for the local nature photographer.
I first visited Towsley Canyon in early spring of this year. The 6 mile hike with the puppy was a bit challenging. But, the recent rains and interesting landscapes made it all worthwhile. I did it again in March with the Hiking and Photography group. The results illustrate that beauty can be found throughout all apsects of nature – if you just look with a good photographer’s eye.
Fryman Canyon, accessed through Wilcare Park off of Laurel Canyon Blvd is another fun gem. Year round, hikers and photographers that want a great view of the San Fernando Valley descend onto the path.
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This gallery is from one of my first participated events with The Los Angeles Hiking and Photography meetup.
Even though I’m a Southern California native, I actually got lost trying to find Glendora! After two stops to ask for directions, getting lost due to bad directions, having to call an out of state friend with an Internet connection for correct directions and then getting lost again – I finally found Glendora and the Wilderness Park.
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Eaton Canyon, in the San Gabriels, could be the easiest hike to get to. It’s right off of the 210 on Sierra Madre Blvd. Nice parking lot. Plenty of great picnic areas and even a little tadpole pond. It truly is a gem in Los Angeles County.
However, there is something to be said about the weather here in California. I did the hike on Friday under a clear and sunny sky. That same sky became a drizzling overcast on Saturday morning. But, that didn’t stop the group from having a great hike, exciting river crossings and Cheyenne Big Sur from being a very happy puppy.
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Ah! It’s fitting that my first official blog entry be about this delightful little secret in the Santa Monica Mountains.
I first discovered Charmlee Wilderness Park from flipping through the pages of the book Southern California: A Day Hiker’s Guide by John McKinney. I was intrigued that there was another area of the Santa Monica Mountain range, waiting for me to explore.
Plus, as dogs are allowed, it was a golden opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.
My first trip was in May. Armed with the Wonder Puppy, Cheyenne Big Sur, I meandered around the trails, steered her away from lizards, photographed the ocean, birds and trees, and marveled at the jewel above Pacific Coast Highway. Continue Reading »
