Photo by Alan Light

This hilly hike made movie and music history.

Long before homes dotted the hillsides of Silver Lake, film fans in 1932 watched these famous comedians struggling to move a piano up a steep flight of concrete stairs. Now, fitness fans are rediscovering The Music Box Stairs thanks to a challenging urban hike designed by Charles Fleming, author of Secret Stairs: A Walking Guide to the Historic Staircases of Los Angeles.

Experience film history, dramatic views of Downtown LA, and a butt-kicking workout on this stairy hike.

Where to park: Meters are available along Sunset Blvd., though finding a spot can be challenging. Public transit is your best bet; the Metro 704 line will drop you off right at the starting point.

The terrain: From café-lined urban streets to greenery-bordered stairs to residential neighborhoods with beautifully-preserved Craftsman houses, you'll see a varied slice of Silver Lake on this city trek.

The route: Start at the corner of Sunset Blvd. and Parkman Ave. with this copy of Fleming's map and descriptive guide in hand to guide you through the hilly, intricate route.

The mileage: 2.5 miles--with 705 steps!

Bye-bye, Stairmaster.

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