Trip #208 Mission Street to Wellington Street, Southside Slopes, Pittsburgh took place on October 20, 2018, and was published on November 5, 2018.
There’s a neighborhood bar at the base of this flight and neon signs glow in the window. I’m tired and think that I won’t climb all 202 steps this time; I’ll get my photos right here and call it a day. But I take a few steps and before I know it I’m a third of the way, halfway, more than halfway, and then, huffing and puffing, I’m at the top and taking in the big view. Bridges and buildings and everything that’s ever been constructed as far as my eyes can see. Then I glance down the narrow street I just climbed and see a young man in a large truck and an older man in a large car trying to squeeze by each other. They dance and maneuver, gesticulating, wheels turning sharply, neither wanting to ‘say uncle’ and back up to let the other pass. I walk down all 202 stairs, and when I get to the bar, I turn around to look, amused by their continued exertions and wondering how long they’ll keep at it. But, I’m getting cold and tired again. I have no problem with saying uncle and heading home.
Field Notes: Whoa! This is a BIG sidewalk flight. Amazing views at the top – once you catch your breath!
Want to visit these stairs? You can locate them on the Pittsburgh City Steps Plan website!
See the Risograph print of this photo and story in the Mis.Steps Shop.
Be a good neighbor! Have you visited these stairs and found them in poor condition or that illegal dumping (large items like tires, old furniture, and construction debris) and trash were abundant in the area? There are two things you can do to take action and make our city steps cleaner and safer for everyone! First, grab a photo if you can, and submit a report to Pittsburgh 311. All problems, both broken stairs, and railings, as well as trash and dumping, should be reported to the city. You can easily do this online or by calling. If the location has an abundance of illegal dumping and trash, also contact Allegheny Cleanways, letting them know the location and the nature of the garbage. Thank you!!
