Vulcan Steps

The Vulcan Steps or Vulcan Stairs are located above the Castro in between Ord and Levant Streets, near 17th Street. The Vulcan Steps are rated among the best of San Francisco's well known stairways. Nearly two blocks long, the steps are carefully tended by the people who live along them and take pride in their well being. The gardens are magnificent and in places resemble a lush green jungle.

Following in the tradition of quirky architecture, the houses on Vulcan Steps are unique and reflect the eclectic tastes of the residents who live on the steps. Nearly all of the houses are accessible only by foot. Food, supplies and furniture must all be carried in by hand.

Constructed primarily of concrete, the steps separate into two divergent paths part way up the incline. A small wood and plank trail reconnects the paths closer to the top of the steps. The Vulcan Steps are a perfect way to go over the hill between the Castro and the Haight or Ashbury Park. The steps travel nearly one block in distance and can provide quite the work out even without jogging. There are several stairways located nearby including the Saturn Street stairs, Ord Court stairway and Clifford Terrace stairway.