Hurray for H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D and The Trust for Public Land

It wasn’t hard to miss the SAVE the PEAK sign atop the iconic Hollywood sign a few months ago as a fundraising effort by The Trust for Public Land (TPL) to purchase Cahuenga Peak surrounding the sign to preserve it as open space and in the process, the pristine view of ‘HOLLYWOOD.’ It’s even less difficult now to acknowledge that TPL only has four days left–until Wednesday, April 14, 2010–to raise an additional $3 million to save the peak.

After TPL protection, the 138 acres of land would be added to Griffith Park, where it would continue to be open to families, hikers and joggers for enjoyment. It would also secure the habitat for a rare natural ecosystem that includes butterflies, the coast horned lizard and Plummer’s mariposa lily.

Growing up in Los Angeles, appreciating the Hollywood sign and surrounding Griffith park comes hand in hand with one day taking it for granted. That’s just human nature and something we’re guilty of. Fortunately, organizations like The Trust for Public Land are around, safeguarding and conserving land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and other natural places, ensuring livable communities for generations to come.

We invite you to look up with us, together with our L.A. kids, and develop renewed appreciation. In the spirit of getting reacquainted with our most famous city landmark and preserving open space for public enjoyment, we’ve included our favorite places to see the Hollywood sign and added other activities and attractions to do and see while you’re at the locations.

To donate to the Save the Peak cause and encourage others to do the same, visit the TPL campaign site HERE.

Griffith Park Observatory

The Griffith Park Observatory is probably the highest point you’ll be able to get a good view of the Hollywood sign. Our sentimental favorite photo-op spot is anywhere along the fence near the old snack shop, but the patio area of the new Café at the End of the World and of course the roof of the Observatory provides nice views as well. (MORE)

Beachwood Drive in Hollywood

We wonder how many would-be movie stars or struggling actors live along Beachwood Drive, where the street seems to lead right to “Hollywood.” On this road, you’ll see the Hollywood sign staring straight at you in its unimpeded glory. The best view from the street is on Beachwood Drive just north of Cheremoya Avenue. Find a parking spot, watch out for traffic, and vogue away.

Turn north onto Beachwood Drive from Franklin Avenue in Hollywood. Beachwood is between N. Gower Street and N. Bronson Avenue. Map it HERE.

While you’re there: search for the “Giving Tree” inspired by Shel Silverstein’s children’s book. An easy hike from the entrance off of Canyon Drive to the tree also provides nice views of the Hollywood sign.  (MORE)

Lake Hollywood Park/Lookout Point

At first glance this park nestled at the foot of Hollywood Hills will make you do a double take and wonder if it’s a green screen projecting the Hollywood Sign so perfectly behind it. The park is one of the best places offering both an unobstructed view of the sign and a setting in which to enjoy it for an extended period of time. Lake Hollywood Park is an L.A. City public park that is clearly marked “Not a dog park,” though expect to see the canine loving population of the area frequenting it with their furry friends. It’s family friendly too, with a fenced playground for the little ones.

While you’re there: Stop at the recently reopened east portion of the nearby Lake Hollywood reservoir, where you can take a leisurely stroll that’s flat and easy for the entire family and strollers. (MORE)