Community Fitness
The SCV Stair Project
A network of volunteer-built staircases tucked into the hillsides of Santa Clarita Valley. Free outdoor fitness for all levels, with stunning valley views and a story worth knowing.
Published August 4, 2026 · by Sam Silver
Sam Silver
22-year SCV resident · Community advocate
Sam is a 22-year veteran REALTOR with Equity Union Real Estate and a lifelong advocate for community-driven projects in Santa Clarita Valley. As a Special Olympics coach and former U.S. Army soldier, he understands the power of free, accessible fitness spaces that bring people together. The SCV Stair Project is one of those spaces.
The August 100 Challenge
Climb your way. Your goal. Your challenge.
The August 100 Challenge is happening right now, and it is not too late to join! We are already into Year 4 of the challenge, running August 1-31, 2026. The mission: complete 100 sets of stairs in 31 days. Whether you are a seasoned stair climber or lacing up for the first time, you can jump in and start climbing today.
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.
Scan to Sign Up
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to join the challenge. The August 100 is already underway, you can still sign up and start climbing today. You have the rest of the month to hit your 100 sets!
Sam's take: "The August 100 Challenge is the best way to kick off fall fitness in SCV. Two great stair locations, a clear goal, and a whole community climbing together. I will be out there on the stairs cheering you on."
What Is It
What Is the SCV Stair Project?
The SCV Stair Project is exactly what it sounds like: a network of staircases built into the hillsides of Santa Clarita Valley, created by local volunteers and community members who wanted to give their neighbors a free, outdoor fitness experience.
These aren't your average building stairs. Some of these staircases have over 100 steps. They climb through native California chaparral, past oak trees, and up ridges that open into panoramic views of the valley below. And they're completely free to use, open to everyone, and maintained by the people who built them.
It's one of Santa Clarita's best-kept secrets. A workout, a viewpoint, and a community project all in one. Locals who know about them use them for morning cardio, evening cooldowns, or just a place to sit and take in the view.
Where to Find the Stairs
The SCV Stair Project has staircases in several neighborhoods throughout the valley. Some are well-known fitness destinations. Others are tucked away in quiet residential areas waiting to be discovered.
Valencia Staircases
The Valencia area has several of the most popular staircases in the project. You'll find them connected to the paseo trail system, climbing the hillsides between neighborhoods with views over the Valencia golf courses and the Santa Clarita Valley.
Saugus Staircases
Saugus has a notable staircase built into the hillside near the paseo trails that connect the neighborhood to Central Park and the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. The climb offers great views of the northern valley and the San Gabriel Mountains beyond.
Canyon Country
Canyon Country's staircases are a bit more rugged, reflecting the natural terrain of the eastern valley. These stairs climb through oak-studded hillsides with wider views of the Sierra Pelona range and the desert beyond.
Find the Exact Locations
The exact locations of the SCV Stair Project staircases are shared through local hiking groups, community boards, and word of mouth. Many of them are connected to Santa Clarita's extensive paseo trail system. Check local forums, ask neighbors, or reach out to Sam for tips on finding the nearest staircase to your neighborhood.
What to Expect
Sam's Take
"The SCV Stair Project is exactly the kind of community initiative that makes Santa Clarita special. Free fitness, built by volunteers, open to everyone. This is the Santa Clarita I love serving."
The Workout
The Stair Workout Experience
Stair climbing is one of the most efficient forms of cardiovascular exercise. It builds leg strength, improves balance, burns calories rapidly, and gets your heart rate up faster than almost any other activity. The SCV Stair Project staircases offer all of that — plus the bonus of doing it outside, in the fresh air, with a view that makes every step worth it.
Some of the staircases have over 100 steps, which means a full round-trip — climb up, walk back down, repeat — can give you a serious 20- to 30-minute workout. Many people use them for interval training: sprint up, jog down, repeat until your legs feel it.
The staircases range from gentle to steep, so you can choose your challenge level. Beginners can take it slow, stopping at landings to catch their breath and enjoy the view. Advanced athletes can treat it like a conditioning circuit.
Why the Stair Project Matters to SCV
Free, Accessible Fitness for Everyone
No membership fees, no equipment needed, no classes to book. The staircases are open every day, from sunrise to sunset. They are one of the most accessible fitness resources in the valley.
Built by the Community, for the Community
Local volunteers built these staircases with their own hands. It's a testament to what Santa Clarita Valley residents can accomplish when they come together around a shared vision of health and community.
Connecting Neighbors
The staircases have become gathering places. Morning regulars know each other by name. Neighbors meet and chat at the top while catching their breath. It's fitness and community in one.
Tips for First-Timers
Never done stair climbing before? No problem. Here's what Sam recommends for your first time on the SCV Stair Project.
Bring Water
Santa Clarita gets hot, especially in summer. Carry more water than you think you will need — at least a liter for a 20-minute stair session.
Pick the Right Time
Early morning or evening is best, especially from June through September. The staircases are exposed, and the midday sun is intense.
Wear Proper Shoes
Some stairs are steep and can be uneven in spots. Athletic shoes with good grip make a big difference in comfort and safety.
Bring a Friend
It is more fun with a buddy, and safer too. Spot each other, pace together, and enjoy the views as a team.
Take in the Views
Do not rush through it. Stop at the landings, turn around, and look at the valley. You earned that view with every step.
Start Slow
Do not try to sprint the whole thing on your first visit. Go at a comfortable pace, rest when you need to, and build up over time.
"The SCV Stair Project is exactly the kind of community initiative that makes Santa Clarita special. Free fitness, built by volunteers, open to everyone. When you climb those stairs, you are not just getting a workout. You are standing on something the community built together. That is what I love about this valley. If you are thinking about making SCV your forever home, this is the kind of community you would be joining."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SCV Stair Project?
The SCV Stair Project is a network of community-built staircases located throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. These staircases were created by local volunteers and community members to provide free, accessible outdoor fitness opportunities. Some staircases have over 100 steps and offer panoramic views of the valley. They are open to everyone, completely free, and suitable for all fitness levels.
Where are the stairs in Santa Clarita?
The SCV Stair Project staircases are located in multiple neighborhoods across the Santa Clarita Valley, including popular spots in Valencia, Saugus, and Canyon Country. Many are connected to the city's extensive paseo trail system. Exact locations are often shared through local hiking groups, community boards, and word of mouth. Check local forums or reach out to Sam for tips on finding the staircase nearest to your neighborhood.
How many steps are in the SCV Stair Project?
The staircases vary in length and difficulty. Some of the most popular staircases have over 100 steps each. The total step count across the entire project is not officially documented, as new staircases are added over time by volunteers. The project continues to grow as the community builds out additional fitness staircases throughout the valley.
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Love Living in Santa Clarita?
If you are thinking about making SCV your forever home, Sam can help. 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.