Griffith Park Legends: History, Mystery, and the Wild Heart of Los Angeles

Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country home to hiking trails, the Griffith Observatory, the LA Zoo, and of course, sweeping views of the Hollywood Sign. But beyond the iconic landmarks, the park holds a fascinating mix of history, legends, and even ghost stories that make it one of Los Angeles’ most intriguing places.

[An aerial view Hollywood Hills, with Griffith Observatory in the distance.]

A Gift to the City

The park was donated in 1896 by Griffith J. Griffith, who dreamed of creating a “people’s park” for all Angelenos. Today, it spans more than 4,000 acres and offers a rare pocket of wilderness in the middle of a bustling metropolis.

[Photo Credit: Griffith J. Griffith | Courtesy of UCLA, Library Special Collections, Charles E. Young Research Library]

[Black and white image of Griffith J. Griffith. An image of a caucasian man with a large handle bar mustache.]

Legends and Lore

Over the years, Griffith Park has gained a reputation for mystery:

• The Griffith Curse – Some believe the land was cursed by its previous owners, fueling ghost stories of strange sightings.
• Haunted Trails – Hikers have reported eerie whispers and phantom horsemen.
• Hollywood Spirits – With its proximity to old Hollywood, tales of wandering stars and mysterious shadows continue to capture imaginations.

The King of Griffith Park

No legend is more beloved than P-22, the mountain lion who crossed two freeways to live in Griffith Park for over a decade. He became a symbol of resilience, coexistence, and the wild spirit of Los Angeles.

[Photo credit goes to the Los Angeles Times.]

[A large, male mountain lion named P-22 staring at the camera, with a large tracking collar on his neck.]

Why We Love Griffith Park

Griffith Park is more than a green space, it’s a living storybook where nature, history, and folklore collide. Whether you’re there for a hike, a picnic, stargazing at the Observatory, or to honor the memory of P-22, you’re part of a tradition that connects Angelenos across generations.