Lace Up for Lacy

Lacy Park Staircase Hike in San Marino

Lacy Park in San Marino is a hidden gem that may very well be the most pristine green space in greater Los Angeles, and a concealed pair of nearby stairways makes it all the more appealing. Start your 2.5-mile trek by ascending the two sets of stairs, surrounded by flora and bridged by a straightaway that’s good for sprints or a breather. This workout venue is not only gorgeous, tranquil, and unfrequented, but also has a drinking fountain whose water is always refreshingly cold.

After you conquer a few ups and downs, proceed east along Virginia Road, oohing and aahing at the elegant estates as you hug the Lacy Park fence. The entrance to the stunning 30-acre park (totally worth the $4 weekend entry fee) and the two trailheads will be on your right in 0.25 mile. For the complete Lacy experience, first take the smooth, wheel-friendly 0.75-mile paved inner loop, a wide, flat track adjacent to the park’s vividly green and spacious lawn.

As you walk or jog, you’ll be treated to an arboretum-like experience showcasing a variety of trees, including coast redwoods, flowering cherry trees, and native oaks. There’s also a charming rose garden, tennis courts, and a war memorial honoring General George S. Patton, who grew up in the area back when Lacy Park was a swimming hole. Then make for the 1-mile outer route, a shady, more solitary path that winds around the park’s perimeter. You may never want to leave. Fortunately, this botanical paradise stays open until 8:00 p.m. on weekends March through November, perfect for an evening step routine as our spring days grow longer.

To get to the Lacy Park staircases from the west, take I-10 to the N. Soto St. exit and go north 2 miles. Turn right on Huntington Dr. and continue east for 5.6 miles. Then turn left on Virginia Rd., following it for 0.5 mile to the staircase, which is 0.1 mile west of the intersection of Virginia Rd. and Shenandoah Rd. Dog-friendly!

From the east, take I-10 to the S. Atlantic Blvd. exit and go north 4 miles to Huntington Dr. Turn right and continue east 1.2 miles. Then turn left onto Virginia Rd., following it for 0.5 mile to the staircase, which is 0.1 mile west of the intersection of Virginia Rd. and Shenandoah Rd. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Hiker taking a photo of sunset at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

    Sunshine and Skyline

    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Ernie's Walk

    Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy. One segment that is particularly special is Ernie’s Walk in Sherman Oaks, a 0.3-mile stretch that is a delight to visit, and pay respect to its inspiration.

    View