Some people hike for exercise, others hike for the scenic views and beautiful scenery. This popular Southern California trail is perfect for both! The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook trail leads you up a staircase and through the hills to the most spectacular vantage point of the city below. Whether you’re looking for a leg workout or an awesome, breathtaking view of the City of Angels, this is one hike that you’ll want to check out.

Boasting a breathtaking view of the entire Los Angeles Basin, the hike to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook makes for a delightful outing when you feel like stretching your legs.

Daniel Pouliot/Flickr

Located in Culver City, the trailhead is hard to miss. You’ll find it by the large sign for Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook State Park. Visitors can park along the south side of Jefferson Boulevard at the base of the park.

Ken Clipperton/Google

From the trailhead, you’ll proceed down a wide dirt path where you’ll soon come across a staircase. The stairs are a straight shot to the overlook, but they are steep! It’s great for a leg workout.

Robert Gamboa/Google

If you don’t feel like tackling the heart-pounding climb up the stairs, you can always continue up the trail for a more gradual approach to the overlook. Gently switchbacking up the hillside, you’ll enjoy an elevated vantage point of the Culver City cityscape below.

Eric Chan/Flickr

The trail is easy to follow and leads you straight to the overlook. That means you can focus on taking in the breathtaking views! You can also do some off-trail exploring at the nearby Baldwin Hills Visitor Center and Botanical Gardens.

Andrew Stanick/Google

At the overlook, you’ll enjoy an expansive view of the Los Angeles Basin stretching all the way to Santa Monica Bay. Landmarks like the Getty Center, the Hollywood Sign, and the Griffith Observatory can all be seen in the distance.

Eric Chan/Flickr

All in all, this is a short 1.3-mile hike to an inspiring view of Los Angeles and beyond. Visit the park’s website to learn more and see what is currently open.

Tracie Hall/Flickr

Have you completed this popular hike to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook? That view of Los Angeles is worth every step. Let us know in the comments below!

Daniel Pouliot/Flickr

Ken Clipperton/Google

Robert Gamboa/Google

Eric Chan/Flickr

Andrew Stanick/Google

Tracie Hall/Flickr

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Address: Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232, USA