For centuries, staircases have helped us reach new heights, offering access to breathtaking views and hidden wonders. But not all staircases are built for the faint of heart. Some teeter on the edge of sheer cliffs, others spiral into dizzying heights, and a few are so steep they feel like a one-way ticket to the underworld. If you have a thirst for adventure and a stomach for danger, these are the ten staircases you need to know about.
1. Half Dome Stairs, California, USA
Nestled within Yosemite National Park, the Half Dome Cable Route is a true test of endurance and courage. The 13-kilometer trek ascends nearly 4,800 feet, leading hikers past the majestic Vernal and Nevada Falls before reaching the imposing granite face of Half Dome. Climbing the final section requires gripping onto metal cables bolted into the rock—one misstep could send you tumbling. Despite the challenge, nearly 800 thrill-seekers take on this climb daily. Would you?
2. Sagrada Familia Spiral Staircase, Barcelona, Spain
Designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudí, this architectural masterpiece is as breathtaking as it is terrifying. The narrow, spiraling staircase winds up like a seashell, with one side hugging the wall and the other exposed with no handrail. A single misstep could send you tumbling into the abyss below. Gaudí wanted his church to feel like a forest canopy—but would you trust yourself climbing through it?
3. Heavenly Stairs of Mount Huashan, China
Sacred and spine-chilling, Mount Huashan’s staircases are legendary among daredevils. Perched on the edge of one of China’s Five Great Mountains, these stairs snake up near-vertical cliffs, leading pilgrims to ancient temples and breathtaking vistas. Wooden planks bolted into rock faces, narrow ledges, and dizzying drops make this one of the most hair-raising ascents in the world.
4. Florli Stairs, Norway
If 4,444 steps sound like an adventure, then Norway’s Florli Stairs should be on your bucket list. This old wooden staircase, once used for hydropower maintenance, climbs 2,427 feet above sea level. The higher you go, the more precarious the stairs become. But for those brave enough to reach the top, the views of Lysefjord are truly unforgettable.
5. Inca Stairs, Peru
Hidden within the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, these stone steps lead to the Moon Temple, one of the site’s most sacred and least-visited locations. The hike is not for the faint-hearted—narrow, winding paths and steep drop-offs create a harrowing experience. Metal chains provide some support, but with a limited number of visitors allowed per day, this is a challenge reserved for the bold.
6. Haiku Stairs, Oahu, Hawaii
Dubbed the “Stairway to Heaven,” this set of 3,922 rickety steps climbs the stunning Ko’olau Mountain Range. Originally built by the U.S. Navy in 1942, the Haiku Stairs are officially closed to the public—but that doesn’t stop determined adventurers from sneaking past the no-trespassing signs to catch one of the most spectacular sunrises in the world.
7. Janssen Observatory Stairs, France
It’s not the height of the staircase itself that’s terrifying—it’s its location. Perched atop Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, these stairs are completely exposed to the elements. Ice, wind, and sheer altitude make every step a nerve-wracking experience. One wrong move could mean a long, cold fall into oblivion.
8. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain
Reaching the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe feels like stepping into a medieval fantasy. The 241 zigzagging stone steps wind up a rocky island off Spain’s northern coast, leading to a historic chapel with breathtaking ocean views. Legends whisper that ringing the church bell three times will bring good luck—but first, you have to conquer the treacherous climb.
9. El Peñón de Guatapé, Colombia
A true geological marvel, the Rock of Guatapé towers 650 feet above the surrounding landscape. A spine-chilling 649-step staircase snakes through a natural crack in the rock, guiding climbers to a jaw-dropping 360-degree view. Once worshipped by the Tahamies Indians, this ancient monolith now draws thousands of fearless explorers eager to ascend its perilous path.
10. Pailon del Diablo Waterfall Stairs, Ecuador
Imagine climbing a staircase drenched in mist, with the thunderous roar of a waterfall pounding in your ears. That’s the Pailon del Diablo, or “Devil’s Cauldron,” where steep, slippery stone steps wind right alongside one of Ecuador’s most powerful waterfalls. It’s both thrilling and nerve-wracking—just be sure to hold on tight!
