Take your workout outdoors by going up and down the stairs at Surrey’s hidden gem – 1001 Steps Park.

The City of Surrey kicked off a restoration project last fall to replace the aging 1980s staircase with something sturdier, safer, and ready for decades of seaside stair sprints. The new design still zigzags dramatically down the hillside, but now you’ll find more durable materials and a layout built to handle heavy foot traffic — whether you’re a morning walker, sunset chaser, or someone determined to beat their last stair time.

The staircase drops roughly 40 metres from the top of 15A Avenue off 126A Street down to a waterfront trail running alongside the Burlington Northern rail line. Thanks to an underpass, you can safely cross over to a rocky beach and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Keep your eyes peeled for harbour seals lounging on the rocks or even Blue Herons gliding overhead.

Despite the name, there aren’t actually 1,001 steps (more like 284-ish), but you’ll still feel it in your legs. It’s basically a mini Grouse Grind, perfect for training without committing to a full-on mountain trek.

The park is open dawn to dusk daily, and like before, it’s totally free. Just remember that the fire danger rating is high right now, so charcoal briquette barbecues are off-limits.

If you’re on a mission to conquer all the region’s great stair climbs, you can also check out the newly upgraded PoCo Climb in Port Coquitlam or the always-challenging Coquitlam Crunch. But 1001 Steps’ mix of seaside scenery and sweat factor makes it hard to beat.

Looking for other ways to break a sweat outside?

1001 Steps Park

Location: South Surrey’s Ocean Park neighbourhood. Find the park at the 12500 Block of 15A Avenue.

Source: 604NOW