This year, I finally got the chance to do part of the 2-day urban staircase hike known as The Big Parade L.A., and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done in the city.

If you’re not in the mood for a full-on 2-day 40-mile pavement pounding, you should try to join the event’s founder on a shorter leg this Thursday, September 15th. Starting at the Music Box Stairs in Silver Lake at 6PM, the group will traverse 15 staircases in about four miles, ending back at the Music Box Stairs around 8:30PM.

This hike is part of an ongoing “Thursday Nights at the Music Box” program the Big Parade is doing, and they’ll have more hikes once a month through the next Parade in May. The group is also hosting longer 8-15 mile hikes once a month, and you can find out more information on their Facebook Page.

So lace up your boots and get ready to look at some of your L.A. neighborhoods in a whole new light, and get those feet used to sidewalk hiking so you’re ready for the next Big Parade!

Tags: City Life, echo park, Hiking, Los Angeles, silver lake, staircase walks, the big parade, urban hiking