Corralitas Public Staircase: The Big Parade Will Pass By Today

Photo: Smith, 1961.  When they cleared the path for the 2 Freeway in 1960, the State cut steeply into many of the adjacent hillsides, like Corralitas Drive.  They also rebuilt the lower third of the Corralitas Public Staircase.  (Click on photos to enlarge.)

Photo: Smith, 1961.  The Corralitas Public Staircase dates back to at least 1922, when it used to go straight up and down the hill.  The above photo shows the framing for the 1961 retaining wall & new set of stairs on the lower 3 levels.  

Brian Smith, who grew up on Corralitas & who's father shot the photos, said, "The stairway from upper Corralitas to lower Corralitas used to be a straight stairway. When the freeway cut was made it took out the lower portion of the stairway. The State rebuilt the lower portion of the stairway at an angle to allow for the cut. Otherwise there would not have been enough room for the number of steps needed."

Photo: Diane Edwardson, 2013.  Today the Corralitas Public Staircase is a well used staircase by neighbors for exercise and for getting around the neighborhood - particularly on Red Flag Days.  It's also a highlight of many a staircase tourist adventure. 

Today The Big Parade will pass by, but not take the Corralitas Public Staircase on Loop 4, Stairways of Echo Park.  Join The Big Parade for a few staircases, miles, hours or both days on a 35 mile trek and 80 public staircases from Downtown to Griffith Observatory.  It's free & a great way to explore your neighborhood.

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