Hollywood Hills, CA — Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains and Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Reservoir, also known as Hollywood Lake, is one of Los Angeles’ most scenic and historic landmarks. Created in 1924 with the construction of the Mulholland Dam by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the reservoir holds an impressive 2.5 billion gallons of water and reaches a maximum depth of 183 feet.
Surrounded by the recreational area known as Lake Hollywood Park, the reservoir offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustle of Los Angeles. The flat, paved road encircling the lake is ideal for walking, jogging, and bicycling, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
A Cannabis Tourism Perspective
For cannabis travelers, the Hollywood Reservoir offers more than just a scenic stroll. It represents a unique intersection of nature, history, and cannabis culture in Los Angeles.
Why Cannabis Travelers Visit
- Mindful exploration: Cannabis tourism often emphasizes relaxation, reflection, and sensory experiences. The reservoir’s peaceful trails and panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign provide the perfect backdrop for a mindful walk.
- Cannabis-friendly city: Los Angeles is one of the most cannabis-friendly cities in the United States, with dispensaries, lounges, and delivery services readily available. Travelers can enjoy the reservoir as part of a broader cannabis itinerary that includes cultural landmarks, dispensary tours, and cannabis lounges.
- Connection to Hollywood history: Cannabis has long been intertwined with Hollywood’s creative scene. From jazz musicians in the 1930s to counterculture icons in the 1960s and beyond, cannabis has influenced art, film, and music. Visiting Lake Hollywood allows cannabis tourists to connect with the broader cultural narrative of cannabis in Los Angeles.
Can You Smoke Here?
It’s important to note: smoking cannabis is not permitted at the Hollywood Reservoir or Lake Hollywood Park. Los Angeles city ordinances prohibit smoking (tobacco or cannabis) in public parks and recreational areas. Cannabis travelers should enjoy the scenery sober and save consumption for legal, designated spaces such as private residences or licensed cannabis lounges nearby.
Historical Cannabis Connections
While the reservoir itself was built for water supply and recreation, its location in the Hollywood Hills ties it to the broader history of cannabis in Hollywood:
- Golden Age of Hollywood (1930s–1950s): Cannabis use was quietly present among musicians and actors, despite prohibition.
- Counterculture Era (1960s–1970s): The Hollywood Hills became a hub for artists, filmmakers, and musicians experimenting with cannabis as part of the creative process.
- Modern Cannabis Culture: Today, Los Angeles is a global leader in cannabis innovation, from boutique dispensaries to cannabis-infused dining experiences. The reservoir, with its proximity to the Hollywood Sign, symbolizes the blending of natural beauty and cultural history that cannabis tourists seek.
A Balanced Experience
For cannabis travelers, the Hollywood Reservoir is not about consumption—it’s about connection. It offers:
- A serene natural setting to complement cannabis-friendly activities elsewhere in the city.
- A chance to reflect on Hollywood’s role in shaping cannabis culture.
- A healthy, active experience (walking, biking, hiking) that pairs well with the wellness-oriented side of cannabis tourism.
The Hollywood Reservoir is a must-visit destination for cannabis tourists exploring Los Angeles. While consumption is not allowed on-site, the reservoir’s scenic beauty, historical ties to Hollywood’s cannabis culture, and proximity to cannabis-friendly venues make it an essential stop on any cannabis tourism itinerary.
