Address: 17024 Mulholland Dr, Encino, CA

Did you know there’s an old missile tower off Mulholland, above Encino? Yup – this super cool, easily accessible Nike Missile Control Site (LA-96C) overlooks BOTH the San Fernando Valley and West LA, including Santa Monica and the South Bay on a clear day.

To get to the tower, GPS “Upper Canyonback Trailhead”. Upon arrival, you’ll see a rugged dirt road. Drive a couple hundred yards up the path and park where the other cars are. Then walk between the yellow barrier gate and continue up the fire road about a mile. It’s an effortless path – barely any incline – with excellent Valley views; and for those that didn’t know (another surprise), you’ll see the hidden Encino Reservoir down below. The missile site will become obvious as you approach. Once there, you can enjoy a variety of picnic tables, benches, restrooms, viewfinders, as well as of course the tower itself which has a staircase and large platform on top.

Scroll down to see a short video from YouTuber “California Through My Lens”.