Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (Culver City)
An odd location for a state park is a hill dotted with oil rigs on the outskirts of Culver City's industrial area. But all of that adds to the urban overlook's subtle charm. The park's main draw for exercisers south of the 10 Freeway are the steps: more than 260 stone slabs that carry hikers to the top in under 20 minutes while leaving them breathless and sore.
Don't look back if it's your first time until you get to the top. By doing so, you'll get the most out of this view of Los Angeles' east-to-west spine from the north, which is much less well-known than the Hollywood Hills postcard photo but just as worthwhile. Look eastward at the skyline of Downtown and the expanse of South Los Angeles. With the Santa Monica Mountains providing a smoky backdrop, Century City's skyscrapers and Westwood's Mormon temple cut imposing figures to the north and west. A no-frills workout scene takes off during happy hour, and people continue to pour into the park until it closes at dusk (and after). The hill’s central location and low-key crowd make you feel like you’re above the city, and within it, all at the same time.
- Address: 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City
- Hours: 8am to sunset. The visitor center is open occasionally, usually mornings and afternoons in the later half of the week.
- Parking: Look for parking on Jefferson Boulevard or drive to the top and pay $2 per hour or $6 per day.
- Pets? No dogs allowed (sorry!).
- Length: Less than 1 mile, but very steep
- Time: 30 mins
