This road doesn't need any introduction, considering it is probably the most famous road in Southern California. James Dean, Steve McQueen and Mulholland Raceway; if you haven't driven this road you haven't driven.

The problem is that this is basically a residential street. And not just for the uber rich, either. They are still finding ways to put in housing developments up here, so you can expect to find plenty of cars in your way. I once came upon a full size 18-wheel simi truck from a moving company trying to make it's way along up here. The only good news is that at several of the stop lights for cross streets the road opens up to 2 lanes through the intersection so you might get lucky and be able to pass.

A note of caution to all motorists, and especially motorcycles; this road is in VERY bad shape. The pavement in many sections is disintegrating and potholes are everywhere. Had a friend crash (not badly) his motorcycle on the first curve we came to, and we were doing the speed limit. I've seen potholes that would swallow a car's wheel up here. I am assuming that someday the City will finally be forced to re-pave, but it has been a patch and repair job from Street Services for quite a while.

All negatives aside, it can still be a great drive and the views both to the north and especially of the Valley on a clear night are amazing. The lookouts over Universal City are a popular spot, as well as the pullout for the Hollywood overlook. These stops are closed at night, the Hollywood Bowl lookout actually has gates and the rest are just signed. If you need to cut from the 101 to the 405 or back, this makes a great alternative to the 101 any time of the day - assuming you've got the time.

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