Cahuenga Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cahuenga Peak |
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Cahuenga peak (left) and Burbank peak (right)
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,821 ft (555 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 1,030 ft (310 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Los Angeles County, California, United States |
| Parent range | Santa Monica Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Burbank |
Cahuenga Peak is a mountain in the Santa Monica Mountains. It is near the famous Hollywood Sign. From its top, you can see amazing views of the Los Angeles area and the San Fernando Valley. It's a great spot for hikers.
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History of Cahuenga Peak
In the 1940s, a famous businessman named Howard Hughes bought Cahuenga Peak. He planned to build a house there. However, his plans changed, and the land was never developed.
Years later, in 2002, a group of investors bought the land. They paid about $1.6 million for the 138 acres. These investors thought about building several fancy homes on the peak.
Saving Cahuenga Peak
Many people in Los Angeles wanted to protect Cahuenga Peak. They sent hundreds of letters to city leaders. This led to a big effort by city officials and groups that protect nature. They wanted to buy the peak and add it to Griffith Park.
In 2008, the investors decided to sell the land for $22 million. Soon after, a group called The Trust for Public Land started a campaign. They called it "Save Cahuenga Peak." Their goal was to raise $12.5 million to buy the land.
To help raise awareness, they even covered the Hollywood Sign so it read "SAVE THE PEAK." The campaign was a success! Money came from many places. Important donations came from The Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation, Aileen Getty, and Hugh Hefner.
In July 2010, more than 100 acres around Cahuenga Peak officially became part of Griffith Park. This protected the land for everyone to enjoy.
Wildlife on Cahuenga Peak
Cahuenga Peak is home to special plants and animals. You might find the rare Plummer's mariposa lily growing there. It is also a home for coast horned lizards and the echo blue butterfly. Protecting the peak helps these creatures survive.
Hiking Trails at Cahuenga Peak
You can hike to Cahuenga Peak using the Aileen Getty Ridge Trail. This trail lets hikers reach the peak from different directions. You can start from Burbank Peak in the west. Or, you can come from Mount Lee in the east. It's a great way to explore the area and see the views.
