Swallow Cliff Stairs is a popular hiking spot located in Palos Forest Preserve in Illinois. The stairs provide access to the top of the scenic 80-foot Swallow Cliff and offer a challenging workout along the way. But just how long are the stairs at Swallow Cliff? Here are some key details to know about the length and layout of the stairs.
How many steps are there at Swallow Cliff?
There are exactly 175 steps to reach the top of Swallow Cliff. The stairs are made of wood and stone and ascend the south face of the cliff. While 175 steps may not seem like a huge amount, it adds up to a fairly intense climb up an 80-foot tall cliff face.
The stairs are steep, with some steps being over a foot high. This adds to the challenge and effort needed to climb to the top. But reaching the top provides rewarding views over the Des Plaines River and surrounding forest preserve.
What is the vertical height of the stairs?
The Swallow Cliff stairs climb 80 feet vertically from bottom to top. To put that in perspective, that’s equivalent to a 8-story building.
This vertical elevation gain is condensed into a fairly short horizontal distance, thanks to the switchback pattern of the stairs. It’s an impressive feat of engineering that allows access to the top of the cliff.
Vertical Height Details
- Total vertical height: 80 feet
- Equals an 8-story building
- Condensed into 175 total steps
- Average vertical gain per step: ~0.5 feet
What is the length or extension of the stairs?
The Swallow Cliff stairs have a total horizontal extension of approximately 300 feet. This means if you were to unwrap the stairs so they were flat, they would span about 300 feet from end to end.
However, thanks to the switchback design, the stairs fit into a much smaller footprint along the cliff face. This helps condense the 300 feet into a series of steep steps.
Stairs Length/Extension Details
- Total horizontal extension: ~300 feet
- Condensed into 175 steps via switchbacks
- Average horizontal distance per step: ~2 feet
What does the layout and design of the stairs look like?
The Swallow Cliff stairs have a unique layout adapted specifically for ascending the cliff face. Here are some key details on the design:
- The stairs use 4 main switchback sections to reduce the steepness of the climb.
- Landings provide resting points between sets of stairs.
- Stairs are made from stone, concrete, and wood.
- Metal railings provide safety and support when climbing.
- Steps heights vary but can be up to 18 inches tall.
The switchback layout condenses the 300 feet of horizontal distance into a compact stairway only about 50 feet wide. This creative design allows access to the top lookout while maintaining a sustainable climbing grade.
Stairs Design Summary
Design Element | Details |
---|---|
Number of Switchbacks | 4 main switchback sections |
Landings | Present between stairs sections |
Materials | Stone, concrete, wood |
Railings | Metal railings on both sides |
Step Height | Up to 18 inches tall |
How physically demanding are the stairs?
Climbing the 175 stairs at Swallow Cliff is considered quite physically demanding due to the following factors:
- The steep pitch and 18 inch tall steps require extra effort.
- The consistent vertical climbing works glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.
- No opportunities to rest mid-climb, requiring endurance.
- Heart rate likely to elevate quickly, especially when jogging up.
- Arm strength needed for holding railings on steep sections.
While challenging, the stairs offer an excellent workout. Most people need 10-15 minutes to complete the climb up and down at a moderate steady walking pace with brief rest stops.
Physical Difficulty Rating
On a scale of 1 to 10, the physical difficulty of climbing the Swallow Cliff stairs is rated as an 8 out of 10.
How long does it take to climb the stairs?
The time required to ascend the 175 stairs at Swallow Cliff can vary substantially depending on your speed and fitness level. Here are some general time ranges:
- Running up the stairs: 2-5 minutes
- Jogging at a moderate pace: 5-8 minutes
- Steady walking with occasional pauses: 10-15 minutes
- Slow hiking with multiple breaks: 15-30 minutes
Most people take 10-15 minutes for the round trip climb by walking at a moderate steady pace. Allow extra time if planning to take photos from scenic overlooks on the way up.
Average Climb Time
Pace | Time Range |
---|---|
Running | 2-5 minutes |
Jogging | 5-8 minutes |
Steady walking | 10-15 minutes |
Slow hiking | 15-30 minutes |
Conclusion
The stairs at Swallow Cliff offer an exciting physical challenge, with steep, extended stairs condensing an 80-foot climb into only 175 total steps. The unique layout, scenic views, and strenuous workout make the stairs a popular hiking destination. While the climb may be demanding, completing it provides a real sense of accomplishment and the view from the top makes it all worthwhile.