26th Annual Pittsburgh StepTrek

The Pittsburgh StepTrek is a self-guided walking tour through the historic public stairways of the South Side Slopes, a neighborhood home to 68 staircases and over 5,400 steps, more than any other in the city. In fact, Pittsburgh has more public steps than any other city in the world!

Since 2000, the South Side Slopes Neighborhood Association has welcomed urban hikers to explore this unique hillside community during StepTrek. This family-friendly event blends photography, local history, and the charm of a neighborhood built on steps.

StepTrek is also the sole fundraiser for our volunteer-run, nonprofit organization committed to keeping the Slopes clean, green, and safe.

Digital maps and route narratives will be emailed prior to the event, so you can trek during event hours—or anytime afterward at your convenience.

Come explore, climb, and connect with one of Pittsburgh’s most unique neighborhoods; we can’t wait to see you in the slopes!

2026 Event T-Shirt

Pre‑ordered shirts will be available for pick‑up at the event.

In addition to the official event shirt, our online shop has 30+ items to choose from, all printed and shipped on demand.

Order now to make sure your StepTrek gear arrives in time for the event.

2026 Poster Artwork by Joshua Hoffman

Now accepting entries!

Submit your artwork at southsideslopes.org by September 18, 2026

Complete entry guidelines are available on our website.

Exploring Pittsburgh's Ups and Downs

In Pittsburgh, the elevation varies wildly, fluctuating 660 feet from highest to lowest points throughout the area and making it one of the hilliest cities in the United States. Throughout this unruly and physically challenging landscape, the city's first mass transportation system was built – a steadily expanding network of public stairways, locally referred to as city steps, these flights of stairs are a throwback to a very different time in history and a very different Pittsburgh. Authors Laura Zurowski, Charles Succop and Matthew Jacob present the history of the Steel City steps and a walking guide to their scenic locations today in their book, City Steps of Pittsburgh, that can be purchased online here or at StepTrek.

Presented by

Event Sponsors

Pittsburgh StepTrek Historic Route Series

For 26 years we have varied our StepTrek routes to allow for exploration of all the areas of our neighborhood and steps.  Information on our Historic Route Series can be found on the South Side Slopes Neighborhood Association Facebook Page or our website.