I used to think I was a morning person and an early bird. Then I met my match. My lovely and amazing daughter, as a little one, woke up at 5 am sharp, EVERY Morning. Many years later, I’m still trying to catch up on missed morning sleep!
This article is dedicated to her because we could have done it together, had I lived in the area during her 5 am phase.
If you enjoy an invigorating start to your day.
If you absolutely love panoramic views (especially of a sunrise).
Or,
If you are just up early as my daughter and I used to be, wondering what to do while waiting for the rest of the world to wake up, then head to the Victory Steps in Verrado!
This is actually a perfect time of year to go to the Victory Steps. It’s a trail made by a set of rail road ties creating just over 340 steps. Great views are your reward once you get to the top! That, the great workout, and a wonderful sense of accomplishment, are what bring people to the trail. This time of year is an ideal time to visit for two reasons.
First: If you really are going to do the Victory Steps so you can watch the sunrise, it’s winter which works in your favor. The sunrise happens relatively late (7:30 am this first full week of Jan) compared to in a few months from now when the day starts much earlier (5:45 am in August).
Second: It’s winter. (Yes, I just said that.) In a few months this trail will be unwise to take in the middle of the day, especially with children in tow. During the winter months though, the sun is kind and the Victory Steps are a fun outing and challenge for your family any time of the day. The views are spectacular no matter when you choose to go and you’ll get the same cardio exercise.
The steps are straight up and down, so this trail is good for families that have either tiny babies that don’t weigh much as they get a free ride in their little strap-on baby carrier, or for families with older kids who won’t need to be picked up and carried for the second half of the way up. Bring plenty of water, wear good shoes, and celebrate with a “Victory” dance when you get to the top!
Location & Parking:
The Victory Steps are on N Verrado Way between Granite Bluff Dr. and W Canyon Vista Road. There’s not a big sign, just the steps going up, so when you first drive by, you might not see them. Get to W Canyon Vista Road and make a left turn/u-turn to park in the little lot there. On the sidewalk go south, heading back towards Granite Bluff Dr. and you’ll come to the Victory steps in about 5 minutes of walking.
The parking lot is not huge and there are not other options. Because of that, I would not advise going on a Saturday morning when you will have to compete for a parking spot. See if there’s an “off” day or time of day that works for your family instead.
If your family enjoys this outing, then you might want to check out these other options I’ve written about for MacaroniKID families. One’s local, and the other a great day trip.
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