Mount Tabor - Stairs
4.8(593)google
HikingOutdoorFreeSports
Overview
The Mount Tabor Stairs are a famous, extensive network of historical outdoor concrete staircases that wind through the volcanic forested hillsides of Mt. Tabor Park. Built in the early 20th century, the network features multiple major open-air stair flights, including a challenging 280-step climb that tests the endurance of fitness enthusiasts. Hikers and runners utilize the staircases for intense cardio workouts while surrounded by towering Douglas firs and lush native ferns. Climbing to the higher flights rewards outdoor adventurers with glimpses of historic stone reservoirs and beautiful, tree-framed views of the city skyline below.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration45-75 minutes
Best TimeEarly mornings or crisp late afternoons in spring and autumn are the absolute best times. This massive set of outdoor rustic stone stairs inside Mt. Tabor Park is a local favorite for exercise. In autumn, the steps are lined with golden leaves under dense forest canopies.
Getting ThereLocated on the western slopes of Mt. Tabor Park. Take Bus Line 15 to the SE Belmont & 69th stop, then walk straight into the park's west entrance to locate the trail and staircase bases. Free street parking is accessible along the park perimeter.
Travel Tips
- This popular photo-spot staircase inside Mount Tabor Park features over 280 steep wooden and stone steps; it completely lacks accessibility features, so visitors with strollers or limited mobility must avoid it and use the paved loop trails.
- During the rainy season (October to May), the steps accumulate slick moss and wet leaves, making non-slip hiking or athletic shoes mandatory; additionally, dogs must be strictly leashed and are discouraged from running on the stairs.
Photo Tips
Best LightBecause the stairs are heavily shaded by dense Douglas firs, the best time to capture the depth or light beams is between 9:00am and 11:00am on clear days; afternoon lighting is often too dim for sharp photography.
Reviews
Positive
- The steep wooden and concrete stairs climbing up the volcanic hillside are flanked by towering redwoods, providing immense visual grandeur on a misty morning, living up to their fame.
- As an outdoor hiking spot rich in pristine serenity, the fitness experience is exceptionally pure. It serves as a go-to route for local workout enthusiasts looking to clear their lungs.
- Part of the public Mt. Tabor park network, conquering the stairs is completely free with zero admission fees, making the value flawless for outdoor lovers.
- The trailheads feature clear signage indicating step counts and safety alerts, backed by well-maintained wooden rest benches, water fountains, and trash receptacles.
Heads up
- Because the staircase has an intense vertical grade, there is a total lack of physical ADA wheelchair accessibility, completely barring heavy strollers and frail seniors.
- During sunny weekend fitness hours, the crowd density within the tight stair corridor overloads. Lacking staff for crowd control, walkers must constantly dodge fast runners.
- During the rainy winter season, the concrete stone steps and wooden boards gather wet leaves and slippery moss. A lack of full anti-slip traction mats poses real safety fall risks.
- The climbing route runs through a raw wilderness zone with zero concessions, food vendors, or vending machines. Packing your own hydration and energy bars is mandatory for heavy workouts.