Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook — Attraction in Culver City

I've lived in West Hollywood for 10 years without visiting this incredible spot. Until this week. Wow.

As I climbed to the top of the Culver steps——j/k lol

As I drove, latte in hand, the winding road to the top, I was reminded of SF's Twin Peaks. This is LA's version of the magnificent midcity mountaintop perch.

The view from Griffith Observatory is a real showstopper, especially at night. But if you want to take in the full sweep of the LA Basin, head to Baldwin Hills.

A powerful rainstorm had just come through, scrubbing the atmosphere clean. The snowcapped San Gabriels stretched from 10,000ft Mt Baldy in the east, providing a dramatic backdrop for the LA skyline and the Hollywood Hills/Santa Monica mountains which run 30 miles west from Hollywood into the Pacific Ocean at Point Dume.

From here you can trace the entire 16-mile length of Wilshire Blvd, running like a river of commercial development from DTLA through Westlake, Koreatown, the Miracle Mile, Beverly Hills, Century City, Westwood, all the way to Santa Monica. The view extends 30 miles out to sea, including the arc of coastline from Malibu's Pt Dume south to Palos Verdes and Catalina.

One caveat: I got lucky, visiting this scenic overlook on one of the clearest days of 2019. You may not be as fortunate. For starters, there's only snow on the mountains in winter, and not always this much. Then there's that famous smog. It's better than it used to be. When you look up the sky is always blue. But get a few hundred feet off the ground and the view across the city can often be marred by a layer of gray-brown smudge. You have been warned.

Also, the park closes at sunset. It's a fantastic spot to watch that spectacle. But if you want the twinkling lights of nighttime Los Angeles, head to the...

Baldwin Hills Overlook in LA is a hidden gem offering breathtaking panoramic views and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Perched atop Baldwin Hills, this overlook provides visitors with sweeping vistas of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas, including the iconic downtown skyline, the sprawling urban landscape, and the majestic mountains in the distance.

The well-maintained trails leading to the overlook are perfect for leisurely hikes or invigorating walks, inviting outdoor enthusiasts of all levels to explore and soak in the natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a peaceful spot for a morning jog, a romantic sunset stroll, or simply a quiet place to enjoy a picnic with loved ones, Baldwin Hills Overlook offers something for everyone.

In addition to its stunning views and recreational opportunities, the overlook also serves as an educational hub, with informative signage highlighting the area's cultural and natural history. Visitors can learn about the significance of Baldwin Hills in shaping the landscape of Los Angeles while appreciating the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home.

With ample parking, clean facilities, and friendly park rangers on hand to assist, Baldwin Hills Overlook provides a welcoming and accessible outdoor experience for residents and tourists alike. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, Baldwin Hills Overlook is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of...

There are different ways to get up the mountain (... or hill).

Climbing the Culver City Steps is definitely an experience and challenge to any level of fitness but oh so fun. You can stop and take pictures of the beautiful scene around you or just take in the awesome view while breathing in nature.

If you don't want to do the steps you can take a path that starts off as a sidewalk and then advances to a dirt path. I wish the dirt path went all the way from the bottom to the top, it's easier on my knees when I run.

If you walk or run please be safe and hydrate. I've seen the ambulance come to get people who did not take care of themselves during the hike ( due to a lack of hydration, rest, knowing when to stop, etc.).

If you don't want to walk or run there is a road that can take you all the way to the top with an area for paid parking (most people don't seem to pay).

The views are amazing! The sights are something you'd see in a movie. While hiking I feel like I get a chance to get away from the L.A buzz and get to have a slice of nature and peace.

If you have a dog there are certain areas they don't want dogs due to some sort of conservation limitations but I still see people take them everywhere with no problem.

All this to say, if have a chance go for it no matter which method you decide to climb... or ride.

Oh and there are public restrooms at the very top with a water fountain. And I alluded to the conservation stuff too, they have some sort of museum at the very top too, but everytime I go it seems...