LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike

Los Angeles, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (17 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Bottled water

Meeting Point

We will meet in the covered building by the restrooms. There are NO RESTROOMS along the route. Please be sure to use the bathrooms at the meeting point.

Meeting point

2944 Gleneden St, Los Angeles, CA 90039 , United States

End point

End Point

We will meet in the covered building by the restrooms. There are NO RESTROOMS along the route. Please be sure to use the bathrooms at the meeting point.

Meeting point

2944 Gleneden St, Los Angeles, CA 90039 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Los Angeles River

The LA River is more than a place to film a car chase for Grease of Terminator 2. This river has its own fascinating (and sometimes terrifying history.) This tour will take you through the LA River past, present, and future to help you better understand this vital waterway. The river is also a great place for bike riding, grabbing a bite to eat, or doing some bird watching. You'll know the best places for each by the end of the tour.

Duration 60 minutes
2

Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park (formerly Marsh Park)

At our meeting point, we will learn about the people that have battled to make the river accessible. What started with pair of wire cutters and a rock n roll mindset, eventually morphed into the Friends of the LA River Organization. It wasn't always possible to walk or bike along the river like we can today. The river is undergoing a transformation and the Friends of the LA River Organization have had a vital role in the recent development.

Duration 25 minutes
3

Corralitas Red Car Trail

Did you know LA used to have great public transportation? I know, it's crazy, but it's true. Here, you'll walk along an abandoned stretch of old trolley car lines and learn how we lost one of the world's best transportation systems.

Duration 20 minutes
4

Echo Park

This is where the hike really takes off. Up into the hills you'll go, using secret stairs and forgotten paths. There's beautiful early 1900s architecture and views of LA landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory. Echo Park is one of LA's older neighborhoods and the hills provided seclusion for occult organizations and self-sustaining religious compounds. The stairs, hills, and trails all lead to a secret swing with a great view of the LA River and LA's Eastside.

Duration 45 minutes
5

Elysian Valley

The final stretch takes us back by the LA River. In this last section, you'll see where new restaurants, shops, spas, apartments, and pocket parks are popping up along the river. Los Angeles has massive plans for the future of the LA River. What we see now reflects the beginning of a $1.6 billion plan to revitalize and renaturalize the LA River. Who knows what the LA River will look like 100 years from now? It could be as alien to us as our river would be the Indigenous people of LA 500 years ago.

Duration 10 minutes
6

Spoke

One of LA's best spots for breakfast or lunch. This is a great spot to go before or after the tour. You can also rent a bike here and spend some more time by the LA River.

Duration 15 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    This is a 4.4 mile hike over 3hrs. Guests must be able to walk up and down several hills and staircases.
Provided by See LA in a Day

What our experts say

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    Use restrooms before the tour starts.
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    Grab breakfast at nearby Echo Park Cafe.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.
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    Bring a camera for stunning views.
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    Stay hydrated; it's a 4.4-mile hike.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike is a unique and exclusive tour designed for both travelers and locals who want to discover a hidden side of Los Angeles. Unlike typical tourist routes, this one-of-a-kind experience will take you off the beaten path and show you a side of LA that 99.9% of people will never find. With a combination of history, ecology, urban planning, architecture, and even cult organizations, this tour offers a deep dive into the heart and soul of the city.

What to Expect?

During the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike, you can anticipate an extraordinary adventure that unveils the hidden gems of Los Angeles. Prepare to be amazed by the fascinating history of the LA River and its impact on the city's transportation and development. Delve into the secrets of urban planning and architecture as you explore hidden staircases that lead to breathtaking views. Gain insight into the ecology of the region and understand its importance for the city's sustainability. This tour goes beyond the surface-level attractions, offering an immersive experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for LA's unique charm.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for adventurous souls seeking a deeper understanding of Los Angeles. Whether you're a traveler looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots or a local wanting to rediscover your city, this tour is for you. It caters to curious minds who want to explore the lesser-known aspects of LA's culture, history, and natural beauty. From history enthusiasts to urban explorers, this tour appeals to a wide range of interests. So, if you're ready to embrace the off the beaten path experiences, the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike is the perfect choice for you.

Why Book This?

What sets the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike apart from other tours is its exclusive and unique route. You won't find this experience in any guidebook or with any other tour company. Led by experienced guides who are well-versed in the hidden secrets of LA, this tour offers an insider's perspective that will make you feel like a true explorer. By choosing this tour, you'll have the opportunity to see a side of LA that most people never get to experience, making your visit truly memorable and unforgettable.

Good to Know

Before embarking on the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as there will be plenty of walking involved. It's also recommended to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour. The meeting point is conveniently located near restrooms, as there won't be any restroom facilities along the route. Additionally, please note that while this tour covers a variety of fascinating topics, it does not include any meals or transportation. However, the unique experiences and insights gained during this tour are well worth it.

Reviews

Travelers who have taken the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike have raved about their experiences. They praised the knowledgeable guides who shared captivating stories and made the tour both educational and entertaining. Many visitors appreciated the opportunity to explore hidden staircases and discover breathtaking views of the city. Overall, participants were thrilled to have discovered a side of LA that most people never get to see, making this tour a highlight of their trip. If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure and a deeper understanding of Los Angeles, the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike is highly recommended.

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