Secret Stairs #14: Magic Gas, 2.5 miles, 511 steps

Our last stair hike through Echo Park was named for the gas station at the corner of Echo Park Avenue and Delta Street, a block from our first 125 step staircase (pic 1.) I've learned to love this section of L.A., filled with old staircases from the 20s and some of the darnedest odd architecture around (check out the renovated Victorian next to the, um, colorful bungalow on Lemoyne Street in pic 2.) Down the street, a left turn into a steep alleyway stopped us to stare across the hollow at our next 129 step climb.(pic 3) "Are we really going there?" We always do. The hike and staircases were easy enough—after a year of climbing, a mere 129 steps don't intimidate these glutes. The overcast sky kept us cool and a gorgeous view of downtown L.A. near the end was awe-inspiring . Delish mochas and a fresh muffin at the bottom of the hill at Chango capped a beautiful Easter morning.