StepTrek Route: Blackroute_2018

Make right and climb these 43 wooden steps constructed in 1997 to Berg St.

The park on the left has trails designed and built in collaboration with the Student Conservation Association. Funded by a 2015 Birmingham Foundation grant, the trail connects the eastern and western halves of South Side Park. Landforce constructed both the Salisbury Connector Trail and Sterling Connector Trail in 2016. Goats from Allegheny Goatscape helped tame invasive vines this past summer. SCA and Slopes volunteers cleared a significant amount of land to cut across the steep terrain.

Built in 1951, the steps connect to Mission St. below. Take in the view of the Mon River, downtown and the rooftops of South Side. When ready, descend 46 steps to Berg St. Steps.

Make left and descend past Patterson St. to steps on left.

The Brashear Association was founded in 1917 to honor the renowned, self-taught scientist John A. Brashear and celebrate his humanitarianism. The Henry Kaufmann Neighborhood House was constructed in 1965 as an outreach site. Brashear Association supports and enriches families in a community context to build more vital lives and neighborhoods in South Pittsburgh. The building also houses Arlington Community Center.

Make right. On the left is former Engine House #22 which was established in 1894. Ahead at the intersection with Salisbury is the Brashear Association’s Kaufmann Neighborhood House.

At end of park, keep left and descend the 49 steps.

For all its steepness, there are play and ball fields throughout the Slopes. This ballfield regularly hosts baseball and softball games under the lights which can be seen from the South Side Flats and Oakland. Take in views of downtown’s tallest buildings and Oakland’s medical complex. The Spray Park opened in 2018. Replacing a deteriorated city pool, the spray functions are many and varied. A children’s playground completes the park. Keep left and continue walking.