Hamilton's Mountain Staircases: The Ultimate Climb Challenge!
Hamilton isn't just about steel and waterfalls—it's got some serious staircases that’ll put your legs to the test. If you're up for a workout with some breathtaking views, let’s dive into the five main sets of mountain stairs in Hamilton, each with its own unique history and charm. Lace up those sneakers, because we're about to embark on a stairway adventure.
1. Chedoke Stairs
Starting off strong, the Chedoke Stairs connect the West Mountain to the lower west city, landing you right near the Chedoke Civic Golf Course clubhouse. With 289 steps, it's a manageable climb for beginners and a great warm-up for the stair-master pros.
2. Dundurn Stairs
Next up, the Dundurn Stairs. These steel steps replaced the original wooden ones in the 1990s and offer a solid climb with 326 steps. They’re sturdy, reliable, and give you a straight shot up the mountain. Perfect for those who like their ascents a little more structured.
3. James Stairs
The James Stairs, located at Southam Park, give you access to the top of the Claremont Access. Rebuilt in 1987, these steps are a bit more intimate with only 227 steps. They may be short, but don't let that fool you—they're steep and offer some of the best views of the city as you ascend.
4. Wentworth Stairs
Ah, the Wentworth Stairs—where history and a good quad burn meet. The original wooden steps, built in 1903, were a real beast with 570 steps. After a rock slide in 1983, they were replaced with metal steps, now boasting 498 steps that trace the path of the old East End Incline Railway. It’s a bit like stepping into Hamilton’s past with every climb.
5. Kenilworth Stairs
The Kenilworth Stairs are your gateway from the East Mountain to the Escarpment Rail Trail/Bruce Trail, continuing down to the Rosedale area. With 228 steps, they offer a moderate challenge. Bonus: before these official steps, a Hamiltonian named Uli built his own set of 305 steps—affectionately known as Uli’s Steps—as a retirement project. Talk about dedication!
The Missing Steps
Hamilton's stairway history used to include seven sets, but the John and Ferguson steps vanished into the annals of history after the Jolley Cut was revamped. Their legacy, however, lives on in the walkways at Sam Lawrence Park.
Whether you're looking for a heart-pumping workout, a scenic walk, or a journey through Hamilton's history, these mountain staircases offer something for everyone. So, next time you're in "The Hammer," take a step—or several hundred—up these iconic stairways and see the city from a whole new angle. Happy climbing, Hamiltonians!
