StepTrek Route: Gold Route 2023

Look up Monastery for a glimpse of St. Paul of the Cross Monastery. These steps and sidewalk were rebuilt a few years ago as part of a project to replace a larger set of steps that ran the length of Monastery. When ready, make a left and descend 39 steps to Brosville St.

Make right, keep right and enjoy the view of the 10th Street Bridge, Mercy Hospital, Duquesne University, the Golden Triangle, the Point and North Side hills behind downtown. When ready, descend the 78 steps to Monastery St.

Cross Monastery and walk up sidewalk to St. Thomas St.

Though not part of this route, up to the right, is the Monastery. In 1852, the first bishop of Pittsburgh invited over the Passionists, an Italian order known as the barefoot missionaries. The Passionists vowed to live a life of prayer, poverty, penance and solitude. Their first retreat in the New World was held here in 1855. Designed by the architect Charles Bartberger, the church was completed in 1859 in the midst of an 11 acre compound chosen for its serenity, natural beauty and seclusion. The architectural style is Romanesque. The interior rose window is a copy of one in Reims, Germany. The newly renovated chapel is exquisite and opens daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Make left and continue along St. Paul past the brick garden walls that are part of the St. Paul of the Cross Monastery and Retreat Center. The monastery was founded in 1853. The brick walls appear to be the original ones that shielded the enclave from the outside world. Parts of the garden can be seen where the wall ends. The orange brick building is the Retreat House, which is available for individual retreats by arrangement. At the top of Monastery, is St. Paul of the Cross Monastery. Cross Monastery Ave. to St. Martin St.

Ascend the 82 steps to St. Paul St.

Cross street to the steps opposite.

Make right and ascend sidewalk. Cross St. Patrick St. and take the 5 steps on left to S. 18th St.

Continue up the paved area alongside guard rail, left side, to the fenced ball fields ahead. Keeping left, climb 16 steps to Saber Field. On weeknights and many Saturdays, the playing fields bustle with children engaged in organized athletics. Ascend another 16 steps to the basketball court. A nearby sign refers to the South Side Park Phase 1 improvements. Continue up Saber Way to St. Patrick St.

At the end of the paved parking area, climb the 72 serpentine steps. The debris here is from recent work to redirect gas and water lines in the park that needs to be undertaken before the first phase of the park master plan can begin in this area.