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Secret Stairs Astro Loop

Los Angeles, California

2.3/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

4.21 miles

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Mike Hathenbruck

Good Workout. Plenty of History in This Spot. Great Views of L. A.

I learned about these remnants of Los Angeles history, just a few months ago. When I found myself in L.A. this past month, I decided to find some of these stairs, and find out what they’re all about. Back in the 1920’s these stairs were created for pedestrians to have direct routes to the transit lines, and market places. I’m not sure how many of you have been in the hills of L.A., but without a direct route down the hills, you’d have to travel a lot farther by way of switchbacks.

Before starting the hike, it’s best to read up on the location of the stairs…they can be pretty easy to miss. I found an app that breaks these stairs up into loop hikes. It’s actually a pretty great app. It has a GPS feature and gives you little voice memos with landmarks and history. anyway…you have to remember that this is an urban hike, so you won’t need to be too worried about any wild animals attacking you, unless you consider automobiles wild animals. You will be in the city, so be aware of traffic. I ran into a few people, along the way, who didn’t seem to mind chatting with a stranger. I saw a lot of “out of the ordinary” things, throughout this hike, so enjoy your surroundings…you never know what kind of craziness you’ll see.

Unfortunately, I only had time to do one of these hikes, I believe there are about six or seven of them. I’ll definitely do more, when I get back to L.A. this month.. It’s probably the best sight seeing adventure that I’ve ever had, in the area.

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Secret Stairs Astro Loop Reviews

This app had me on a wild goose chase in north east LA. I had to guess where the trail was, because the app offered no map or navigation. I almost wandered into one woman’s back yard. Thankfully, she was kind of cool about it, but was sure to let me know I shouldn’t go any further. The trail was virtually non-existent, and due to construction, I guess, I ended going way out of the way trying to find my car so I can go home. Complete fail.

Most of this is just a walk through Silver Lake neighborhoods. While Silver Lake is a pretty area, this is hardly an outdoor experience. Main complaint is that there's no real route or trail. You can download a $2 app called "Secret Stairs-Silver Lake 1" to provide you with a path, but if you don't have that you're basically wandering around sidewalks.

Vintage walkway that takes you through the cuts of the Hwood Hills. Cool and peaceful since mostly in shade and tucked in a residents area, it's great for a workout more then a scenic view. Definitely something different :D

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mattachine Steps

Three Stooges Stairs

Silver Lake Reservoir Trail

Landa St Stairs (Esther's Steps)

Baxter Steps

Hoover Walk