Pittsburgh features 700 stairways perfect for urban climbers, offering striking city vistas

In the heart of Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh stands out as a unique city with a rich history and a distinctive characteristic - its network of public stairways. These steps, numbering over 700, make Pittsburgh the most step-rich city in the U.S., with a cumulative estimated height of roughly 24,000 feet.

The city's steep streets were a test for workers in the past, and the long stairways were built to help Pittsburghers commute without injuring their calf muscles. This architectural feat is a testament to the city's industrial past, when Pittsburgh was one of America's leading steel manufacturing towns, producing over 20 million tons of steel annually from the early 1900s to the 1970s.

However, when the steel industry collapsed in the mid-'80s, many of the steps fell into disrepair, a victim of the city's population decline. Thankfully, local enthusiasts and associations like the South Side Slopes Neighborhood Association have taken up the mantle.

One such initiative is the annual event, StepTrek, a community adventure that invites participants to walk curated routes up and down the South Side Slopes stairways. This event not only promotes the restoration and preservation of these historic landmarks but also serves as a means to explore the city's hidden gems.

In 2015, Bob Regan, the author of the historical guidebook "Pittsburgh Steps: The Story of the City's Public Stairways," brought hundreds of these forgotten stairways back into focus. His mapping data was later used by the city government to produce a public interactive map of all the accessible stairways around town.

Regan's work didn't stop there. This summer, local stair enthusiasts published "City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide," a sequel which includes original photos of the steps and several suggested walking routes.

One such route leads to Yard Way, one of the longest flights of stairs in Pittsburgh, offering direct access to Winters Park and a panoramic view of the Monongahela River, downtown high-rises, and the city's northern hills. Another notable staircase is Rising Main, located in the Fineview neighborhood, which presents one of the most grueling Pittsburgh step traverses, with around 370 steps gaining over 300 vertical feet of elevation in just two-tenths of a mile. Upon reaching the top, hikers can enjoy a sweeping city overlook at Fineview Fields.

However, it's not just about the challenge. The South Side Slopes' Saint Michael's Street steps provide a surprising view of an enormous green church steeple towering above the houses and woodlands, with the river serving as a backdrop.

But remember, these steps can be slippery, with moss often growing on them. Mind The Moss is a cautionary note for hikers to be aware of this potential hazard.

So, whether you're a history buff, an urban explorer, or just looking for a unique workout, Pittsburgh's steps offer a fascinating journey through the city's past and present. The Walking City Trail is another way to explore these historic landmarks, providing a unique perspective of this vibrant city.

Pittsburgh features 700 stairways perfect for urban climbers, offering striking city vistas