Castles in the Air

This staircase hike takes you on a journey into classic old Hollywood charm and reveals gorgeous views, but you have to work for it! Your fantasy-world journey begins on Beachwood Drive among iconic storybook houses. An extremely steep and seemingly endless staircase lined with cacti and wildflowers transports you to Hollyridge Drive, where you hang a swift right.

On the left is the elegant Hollywood Castle (a popular film and video location), while to the right the Hollywood Sign beams proudly. Continue to stride down Hollyridge Drive as another castle appears on your left. Look to the opposite side of the street and spy another staircase between 2823 and 2831 Hollyridge. Here you skip down 132 stairs, turn right on Westshire, then circle around Lechner Place, a 270-degree turn to meet up with Hollyridge again.

Go left about 0.3 mile to be greeted by the first flight of stairs you climbed, which you now descend with ease to complete a 1.2-mile lollipop loop. If you’re motivated to conquer one last stairway (you will be!), head left at the bottom to a staircase at 2800 North Beachwood. As you reach the top, beam with pride as you look down at how far you’ve come! Simply reverse course down those same stairs to complete a total of 1.8 miles in fantasy land.

TIP: Catering to both the green-smoothie crowd and the beer connoisseur, head over to Beachwood Café for post-hike food and refreshments.

Start the trail at the staircase beside 3020 N. Beachwood Dr. Street parking is available, but limited, so arrive early. Note that much of the street parking on weekends requires a permit. Dog friendly!