Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (Culver City Stairs) Los Angeles
Conquer 282 steps for epic LA views! The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook offers a challenging workout and panoramic vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (Culver City Stairs) Los Angeles
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer 282 steps for epic LA views! The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook offers a challenging workout and panoramic vistas.
"It's a great place to take the family, you can turn it into a challenging aerobic workout and you will be rewarded with a fantastic view."
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy athletic shoes are a must for the stairs and trails.
💧 Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. It's a serious workout!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 282 Steps
Base of the overlook
A challenging yet rewarding staircase offering an intense workout and panoramic city views.
Panoramic City Views
Summit of the overlook
Breathtaking vistas of Downtown LA and beyond, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
History Exhibits
Summit of the overlook
Learn about the area's rich history through informative displays at the top.
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Culver City Stairs
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy athletic shoes are a must for the stairs and trails.
💧 Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. It's a serious workout!
⏰ Go early to avoid crowds
The stairs can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive before 8 AM for a quieter experience.
🚗 Parking can be tough
Arrive early or consider public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy athletic shoes are a must for the stairs and trails.
💧 Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. It's a serious workout!
⏰ Go early to avoid crowds
The stairs can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive before 8 AM for a quieter experience.
🚗 Parking can be tough
Arrive early or consider public transport.
🚴 Bike racks available
Secure your bike at the bottom or midway points.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the challenging yet rewarding climb up the 282 steps of the Culver City Stairs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles. It's a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts and those seeking iconic city vistas. Some find parking difficult and the stairs can get crowded, but the overall experience is highly praised for its workout potential and scenic payoff.
"My favorite hiking trail! It's easily accessible and free! I really like you can basically choose your level of difficulty with your hike, there are multiple trails plus the steps so you can do as much or as little working out as you want. Family friendly with lots of nature to enjoy as well! Usually not too crowded which is always a bonus! It's always a treat seeing the animals on this hike like the lizards and bunny's. Lots to look at and enjoy!"
Megan Middleson
"Stairs! Great view! Beautiful garden. Juice bar at the bottom of hill. Great for post workout. Low skill level hike. Easy to take dogs or kids."
Christina Tiplea
"A hidden gem for nature lovers! The hike is refreshing and not too difficult, with vibrant wildflowers along the trail and a breathtaking view of the city at the top. A perfect mix of urban and natural beauty—highly recommend for a quick outdoor escape!"
ayushi agarwal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and park at the overlook, or take the E Line Metro Rail to the La Cienega/Jefferson station and walk approximately 0.2 miles to the stairs.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the overlook, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early for the best chance of securing a spot.
Absolutely! There are bike racks available at the bottom and midway points of the stairs for secure parking.
Yes, you can connect to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook from Kenneth Hahn via trails, offering a longer, more scenic route.
Consider using the Park to Playa Trail and parking near La Brea and Stocker, then crossing the street to access the overlook.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and the Culver City Stairs is free of charge.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to check official park hours before your visit.
No advance booking is required as it's a public park and the stairs are freely accessible.
While generally open, be mindful of park rules and regulations. It's a popular spot, so expect company during peak times.
The stairs themselves are strenuous. However, there are paved paths and viewing areas at the top accessible from the parking lot.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Climbing the 282 stairs can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your fitness level and how often you pause. +1
It's considered a moderate to challenging workout due to the steepness and number of steps. It's a great aerobic exercise. +1
You'll get stunning panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, including Downtown LA, the Hollywood Hills, and on clear days, the Pacific Ocean. +1
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook.
Dogs are generally allowed in Los Angeles County Parks on a leash, but always check specific park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos of the stairs and the city skyline.
Yes, the summit provides excellent vantage points for wide-angle shots of the Los Angeles cityscape.
Your phone can capture wide shots of the city, close-ups of the stairs, and even some interesting perspectives looking up or down the staircase.
It can be challenging during peak hours. Going very early in the morning or late in the evening increases your chances of getting unobstructed shots.
The history exhibits at the top offer some visual interest, and the unique architecture of the stairs themselves is a great subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a less intense experience, exploring the paved paths around the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook at the summit offers beautiful views without the strenuous climb.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
For a more comprehensive fitness experience, consider incorporating the stairs into a longer run or bike ride. You can connect to trails from nearby parks like Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area or utilize the Park to Playa Trail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Culver City Stairs
Many visitors turn the climb into an intense aerobic session, appreciating the challenge and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top.
Beyond the stairs themselves, the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook offers more than just a climb. At the summit, you'll find history exhibits detailing the area's past, providing a moment of reflection after your workout.
Navigating Los Angeles: Getting to the Stairs
Public transportation is a viable and often less stressful option. The E Line Metro Rail provides convenient access, with the La Cienega/Jefferson station being a popular disembarkation point. From there, it's a relatively short walk, approximately 0.2 miles, to the base of the stairs.
For cyclists, the area is also accommodating. Bike racks are available at both the bottom and the midway point of the stairs, allowing you to secure your bicycle before embarking on the climb.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit