Personal Story
I Climbed the SCV Stairs
Here's Why You Should Too
Sam Silver, U.S. Army veteran and 22-year REALTOR, took on one of Santa Clarita Valley's best-kept fitness secrets. Here is his story, the view from the top, and why the August 100 Challenge is calling your name.
August 5, 2026 Sam Silver 4 min read
Sam Silver
22-year veteran REALTOR · U.S. Army veteran · Special Olympics coach
Sam is a 22-year veteran REALTOR with Equity Union Real Estate and a lifelong advocate for community-driven fitness in Santa Clarita Valley. As a U.S. Army veteran and Special Olympics coach, he believes the best workouts happen outside, in the community, surrounded by the people who make SCV special.
The Climb
Taking on the SCV Stairs
I have lived in Santa Clarita Valley for more than two decades. I have hiked the trails, explored the neighborhoods, and watched this community grow. But somehow, the SCV Stairs stayed off my radar until this summer. A fellow hiker mentioned them at a farmers market, and I could not believe what I was hearing: staircases built into a hillside, free to use, hidden in plain sight, with views that rival any trail in the valley.
So I set out to find them. And when I did, I understood immediately why locals keep this spot close to their hearts.
The stairs are built into the hillside and climb through native California chaparral, past oak trees, and up a ridge that opens into panoramic views of Santa Clarita and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, the entire Santa Clarita Valley unfolds beneath you, with the San Gabriel Mountains standing tall on the horizon. It is a hidden gem that belongs on every SCV resident's bucket list.
The Experience
What It Feels Like at the Top
Standing at the top with the American flag waving behind me, looking out over the valley — that is what Santa Clarita is all about. The climb is challenging but rewarding. Your legs burn, your lungs work, and every step forward is a step upward. And then you reach the summit, and the whole valley opens up beneath you.
The views alone are worth the effort. The Santa Clarita Valley stretches out in every direction — the golf courses of Valencia, the rolling hills of Newhall, the rugged landscape of Canyon Country, and the San Gabriel Mountains standing guard on the horizon. On a clear morning, with the sun coming up over the ridge, it is one of the most peaceful places in SCV.
You feel accomplished when you reach the top. There is a quiet satisfaction that comes from earning the view with your own effort. It is the same feeling I had after a long ruck march in the Army: tired, sweaty, and completely alive.
Why You Should Do It
Five Reasons to Hit the Stairs
Free Outdoor Fitness
No gym membership needed. No expensive equipment. The stairs are completely free, open every day from sunrise to sunset. Your legs and lungs are the only investment.
Great for All Fitness Levels
Start slow and build up. Take breaks at the landings. The stairs meet you where you are. Beginners can take it gentle; advanced athletes can train like it is a conditioning circuit.
Beautiful Scenery and Fresh Air
This is not a stuffy gym with artificial lights. This is California sunshine, open sky, and a view that makes every step worth it. The fresh air alone is worth the drive.
Community Connection
You will see neighbors and friends on the trail. Morning regulars know each other by name. The stairs have become a gathering place for people who love SCV and love staying active.
Perfect for Morning or Evening Workouts
Early risers catch the sunrise over the San Gabriels. Evening climbers get golden hour over the valley. Pick your time and make it a habit. Either way, the stairs deliver.
Why the Stairs Matter to Me
As a veteran, I know the value of physical fitness and mental toughness. The discipline that the Army instilled in me has carried through every part of my life. And the SCV Stairs remind me that the best workouts are not in a gym. They are outside, in our community, surrounded by the people who make Santa Clarita special.
Whether you are training for something or just want to stay active, the stairs are waiting for you. You do not need a coach, a program, or a membership. You just need to show up. And trust me, the view at the top is worth every single step.
This is the Santa Clarita I love serving. A community that builds its own fitness spaces, climbs together, and celebrates the people who make it happen.
The August 100 Challenge
Climb your way. Your goal. Your challenge.
The SCV Stairs Project is running the August 100 Challenge, and it is not too late to join! The goal: complete 100 sets of stairs in 31 days (August 1-31, 2026). Two locations — Central Park Stairs in Saugus and Plum Canyon Stairs in Canyon Country. Climb your way, set your pace, and hit your goal.
Central Park Stairs
Saugus location near Central Park and the Sports Complex. A favorite among local runners and fitness groups.
Plum Canyon Stairs
Canyon Country location with rugged terrain and sweeping valley views. A true stair-climbing workout.
August 1-31, 2026
100 sets of stairs in 31 days. You can still jump in and start climbing today.
It Is Not Too Late to Join
We are already into August, but you can start your challenge today. 100 sets in 31 days breaks down to just over 3 sets per day. Even if you start today, you can catch up. The stairs are waiting.
SCV Stairs: What You Need to Know
Where are the SCV Stairs located?
The SCV Stairs Project has staircases at two main locations: Central Park Stairs in Saugus (near Central Park and the Sports Complex) and Plum Canyon Stairs in Canyon Country. Both are free, open to the public, and accessible from sunrise to sunset.
Is the August 100 Challenge still open?
Yes! The August 100 Challenge runs from August 1-31, 2026, and you can join at any point during the month. The goal is 100 sets of stairs in 31 days. Even if you start mid-month, you can adjust your pace and still hit your target. It is your challenge, your pace, your goal.
Do I need to be fit to climb the SCV Stairs?
Not at all. The stairs are suitable for all fitness levels. Beginners can start slow, take breaks at the landings, and build up over time. The stairs meet you where you are. Advanced athletes can use them for interval training and conditioning circuits.
What should I bring to the SCV Stairs?
Bring water (at least a liter), wear athletic shoes with good grip, and bring sunscreen and a hat if climbing during the day. Early morning or evening is best to avoid the heat. A camera or phone is recommended too — the views from the top are worth capturing.
Love Living in Santa Clarita?
If you are thinking about making SCV your forever home, reach out to Sam Silver. With 22 years of experience and deep roots in every neighborhood, he knows exactly which community fits your lifestyle.
All information on this site is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Stair locations and conditions may change. This is not intended as a solicitation if you are currently working with another real estate broker. All information should be independently verified. Sam Silver, REALTOR, Equity Union Real Estate. DRE #01412755.