Explore The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

exterior of the visitor center at Baldwin hills scenic overlook

What is the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook?

It's a popular 58-acre urban hilltop park and viewpoint in Culver City that offers panoramic views across Los Angeles, stretching from downtown to the Pacific Ocean on clear days. It’s best known for its steep outdoor staircase—often called theCulver City Stairs—along with a network of trails and a small visitor center at the summit, making it a popular destination for both workouts and sunset visits.

At the top, you’ll find the visitor center, paved viewing areas, and several places to sit and take in the scenery. The views sweep across the Los Angeles Basin and typically include the downtown skyline, the Hollywood Hills, Century City, and, on clear days, the ocean and distant mountains. The summit area also includes interpretive displays and connections to other trail segments, so you can either linger at the overlook or continue exploring the surrounding trail network.

How do I get there?

If you’re driving, enter 6300 Hetzler Road in Culver City, CA 90232, and follow the road up to the paid parking area near the visitor center at the top of the hill — from there it’s a short walk to the overlook and trailheads.

Alternatively, if you’d rather hike up, park along Jefferson Boulevard near the lower trailhead and start your climb on the switchback trail or the Culver City Steps; this entrance is closer to where many people begin the uphill hike.

The trailhead is located at 6050 Jefferson Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
The visitor center and scenic overlook itself is at 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232

What does the name refer to?

“Baldwin Hills” refers to the actual hills and the larger neighborhood/mountain range in that part of LA. The overlook sits on the edge of those hills. The area is named after Elias J. “Lucky” Baldwin, a 19th-century landowner and developer who used to own much of the land itself.

Is there parking, and is it free or paid?

Yes — there is parking at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, but it’s paid in the main lot near the visitor center at the top of the hill. Prices are reasonable, and you can pay either by the hour, or for a full day.

If that lot fills up or you prefer not to pay, limited street parking is often available along Jefferson Boulevard near the trailhead at the base of the hill. Parking near the trail and at the top can get crowded during the businest times of day, so arriving early is a good strategy.

When is a good time to visit? Is it open at night?

Early in the morning is best for cooler temperatures, clearer air, and fewer crowds: late afternoon for warmer light and sunset views. Midday can be hot and more exposed, and weekends—especially late mornings and near sunset—tend to be the busiest. If you want the quietest experience and easiest parking, aim for a weekday morning.

It's open daily from about 8 a.m. until sunset and officially closes at sunset, so there isn’t public access after dark

Does it cost anything to visit?

Nope. The only fee is if you want to use the paid parking lot at the top, near the look.

Are there other trails there besides the staircase and overlook?

Yes! People use the dirt trails at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook all the time, and they’re a big part of what makes the park more than just a staircase and viewpoint. In addition to the stairs, the switchback dirt trails are popular for walks, hikes, and trail runs, offering a less steep, more gradual way up (or a longer loop) that many runners and casual walkers prefer. You’ll see everything from people out for an easy scenic walk to others doing full hill workouts and training runs.

It also connects into a broader system of regional trails. The overlook is part of the larger Park to Playa Trail corridor, which links a series of parks and open spaces across the Baldwin Hills and ultimately connects to other paths like Culver City Park and beyond.

Is the climb difficult? How many "steps" to the top?

The climb from the base to the top of the overlook involves about 330–350 feet of elevation gain over roughly 1.2–1.4 miles on the combined trail/stair route, with shorter sections on the switchbacks and steeper pitches if you take the stairs directly.

Because of that sustained uphill, the hike is generally considered moderate in difficulty: it’s a solid workout, especially if you use the 282 stone steps, but manageable for most people who are reasonably active.

If you choose the gentler switchback trail instead of the straight stair climb, the ascent feels more gradual, and many runners and walkers use the route as part of their fitness routine — but it still requires steady effort because of the continuous elevation gain.

What’s in the visitor center,?

At the top of Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook there’s a visitor center with small educational exhibits that explore the natural, cultural, and development history of the Baldwin Hills area, including how the land has changed over time and its restoration as an urban park. The center also typically includes a small theater space, interpretive displays, and restrooms, and parts of the surrounding summit landscape include picnic areas and native plant displays.

What notable plants, animals, and natural features are there?

The park sits within a restored native habitat of coastal sage scrub and chaparral — the classic Southern California hillside plant community — and visitors can often see seasonal wildflower displays and native brush as part of the landscape restoration.
Birdwatchers may spot various birds soaring above or perched through the hills, and the area supports small urban wildlife typical of inland Los Angeles open space, including lizards, snakes, and other small mammals (reflecting the regional biodiversity of nearby Baldwin Hills parklands).

Are dogs allowed?

Yes — dogs are allowed at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook as long as they are kept on a leash. You can walk them on the trails and around the overlook just like you would at other state parks.

Can you host a wedding or special event there?

Yes. It's popular spot for small, scenic ceremonies thanks to the views. Events aren’t drop-in, though: you’ll need to apply for a special event permit through California State Parks and plan ahead, since the park controls where events can happen, how many people can attend, and what’s allowed on site.

For more information, visit the California State Parks website.