Hidden Swing
DETAILS:
Location: Elysian Park. The trailhead can be found off Angels Point Drive, just east of the intersection with Park Row Drive.
Hours of Operation: Sunrise to Sunset.
Parking: There is limited (free) parking available at the overlook turnout located at the base of the trail.
Cost: Free!
Time Commitment: 1/2hr to 1hr.
Being an adult can be stressful. In these moments, sometimes you gotta just let go and allow yourself to be a kid again. With that in mind, I’d like to recommend that you give swinging a try… the innocent kind. This isn’t that kind of blog. And if you’re going to swing, you might as well do it at the most scenic swing spot in all of Los Angeles.
This hidden gem can be found on top a secluded hill in Elysian Park. After pulling up to the turnout on Angels Point Road, you’ll find the trailhead at the north end of the lot. To call it a trail is somewhat misleading since it’s barely 100 yards from bottom to top, but while this route is short, it’s definitely steep so be ready to put your glutes to work. Once you reach the summit, the swing (hopefully) awaits you. I say “hopefully” because the swing can be damaged or even missing during any given visit. Neither the city or park service claims responsibility for the swing. It’s completely maintained by private citizens (thank you whoever you are!) so it’s a crapshoot if you decide to go, but even in theses worst case scenarios, the views overlooking the valley are still a decent consolation.
Thankfully on our excursion, the swing was there and in good condition. The pictures aren’t the result of any depth distortion, the swing truly is located right on the edge of the hill, so when you really get going on it (if you dare), you’ll definitely be flying over a complete drop-off. So now is probably a good time to mention that you swing at your own risk and to use a little caution when you do. Now that I’m done sounding like your mom, I promise that a good experience on this swing will leave you exhilarated and grinning like you were ten years old all over again.
