Los Angeles Stair Workouts: The Ultimate Guide

(credit: Carol L./Yelp)

As one of the fitness capitals of the world, Los Angeles is no stranger to unique and one-of-a-kind fitness routines. Although climbing stairs might not seem like a novel idea, sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. From Santa Monica to Echo Park, Angelenos are staying active at these stairs.

Santa Monica Stairs
699 Adelaide Drive
Santa Monica, CA 90402

Probably the most well-known of the stair workouts lies in Santa Monica. As the mecca of outdoor workouts in the Westside, the Santa Monica stairs offer both a wooden set of stairs (170 steps) and concrete ones (189 steps). And, while die hards come to workout, there are also those who come for more of a leisurely workout up and down the steps. The steps can be pretty steep, but it's a great workout. Beware that it can get pretty packed. From those fitness gurus to ones doing sit-ups and push-ups in between the climb, it's a great scene though. Park on San Vicente or on meters on Ocean Avenue. If it gets too crowded, head over to the semi-secret La Mesa stairs around the corner. The narrow steps are pretty tough, and offer no railing like the Santa Monica ones do, but you'll get a great workout!

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
6300 Hetzler Rd
Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 558-5547
www.parks.ca.gov

Clocking in at an elevation of almost 300 feet, the roughly 282 steps of Baldwin Hills will make everything in your body burn. But, with a 360-degree view of the Los Angeles skyline, there's some ample distraction during your workout.

Bunker Hill Steps
5th St.
Between South Grand and South Flower

Connecting the Financial District with Bunker Hill, these days, the historic prominence is an afterthought for fitness gurus. With roughly 300 steps (294 to be exact), it's a great place to go if you live in the area and once you get to the top you'll be rewarded with great views of the Central Library and other LA landmarks.

Baxter Stairways
2080 Avon St
Los Angeles, CA 90026

Known to be the steepest stairs in Los Angeles, The Baxter Stairways are going to put you through a test as you get to the top, but once you've achieved your 230 steps, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the downtown skyline and beyond.

Hollywood Bowl Stairs
2301 Highland Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90068
(323) 850-2000
www.hollywoodbowl.com

Most people don't know it, but The Hollywood Bowl is technically a public park. What does this mean? Well, it's open to the public. So, the next time you want to skip the concert and get some fitness time in, head to the Hollywood Bowl. You'll get to work out in one of the world's most famous venues.

Beachwood Canyon Stairs - 800 Steps
2800 Beachwood Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90068

Offering sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills, including of the Hollywood Sign, these stairs are a bit longer than most, and offer a great workout. Known for its nonstop views, it's a popular route above Capital Records.

Angels Flight - 153 Steps
351 S Hill St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 626-1901
www.angelsflight.com

Most Angelenos know Angels Flight for its historical significance, but true fitness afficiandos take it a step further by skipping the trolley car and setting their sights on the steps.