Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

On the Grid : Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

"If you’ve ever heard someone mention the Culver City Stairs, this is where they are located. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is a California State Park that’s a must for anyone living nearby or visiting the area. In addition to the stairs, which can get pretty crowded at times, there are multiple trails to hike. If you’re not up for a workout, you can always drive to the top and park in the $6 lot to enjoy an expansive view of the city." - Rapt Studio

"L.A.'s Scenic Urban Island The Baldwin Hills Overlook affords some of the most unusual views in Los Angeles . From 511 feet high, not only can you see the entire L.A. basin with the downtown skyline, Hollywood sign, Santa Monica Mountains, and Pacific Ocean, but you get the southern perspective of Long Beach, San Pedro, and Palos Verdes. If you’re lucky and catch a clear day, you may even spot Catalina and the Channel Islands. This urban hike is a quick escape into nature but not without modern amenities including a bathroom, water fountain, picnic area and an entire learning center at the top. Take the time to educate yourself about the history, ecology and restoration of the land in order to truly appreciate the preciousness of park space and the fragileness of this natural urban island in the middle of the city sprawl below. Although the stairs to the top take only 10-20 minutes to ascend, they are taller and spread further apart than most stairs so be extra cautious with your footing. The stairs are a favorite amongst locals for exercise but for those looking for a less strenuous path, there is also the meandering switchback route. Even with the stairs, this is a shorter and less rigorous hike than others in urban L.A., so it's a great outing for all ages and fitness levels."

"Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Culver City. If you’ve ever heard someone mention the Culver City Stairs, this is where they are located. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is a California State Park that’s a must for anyone living nearby or visiting the area. In addition to the stairs, which can get pretty crowded at times, there are multiple trails to hike. If you’re not up for a workout, you can always drive to the top and park in the $6 lot to enjoy an expansiveview of the city."

Climb the Culver City Stairs or take the switchbacks for one of L.A.’s signature panoramas. The Los Angeles Times regularly recommends the overlook; agencies note it anchors the Park to Playa network and hosts ranger programs.

Look, i'm sorry you didn't get a photo with the Hollywood Sign but this is a cooler walk (and if you bring a good camera you can get a solid photo of DTLA and the mountains behind you) and locals won't hate you for making them go there. Go down the steps (carefully! work your glutes, save your knees!) so everyone thinks you went up them and then actually double back up the road it's way nicer. Grab some fruit at the bottom maybe there's usually a nice lady there.