Bisbee Stairway Loop

The Bisbee Stairway Loop loosely follows the course of the Bisbee 1000, an annual running/fitness event that climbs 9 of the public staircases throughout the town and prides itself on being one of the most unique running events and courses in the US. The event is a great experience, and following this course will give visitors the chance to do their own version of the route at their own pace and without the crowds around.Following the course gives walkers the chance to view in the ins and outs of Bisbee's quirky streets and neighborhoods, ranging from the downtown Brewery Gulch area to upper Tombstone Canyon and the quieter but only slightly less flavorful areas, and back down to the town's public pool and athletic courts, and finally through the downtown mercantile area with no shortage of coffee and gift shops.The exact course can be hard to follow, as it traces sidewalks and streets, doubling back and sometimes heading up stairs that begin in small gaps in the center of building storefronts. Really, this route just gives one a chance to get lost in this unique historic mining town. Following the navigation here will lead you to almost a dozen stairways - some of which climb from one street to the next, others that climb hillsides from the downtown streets up to high up neighborhoods.Over the course of the path, walkers will pass old homes, public murals and art installations, rocky viewpoints, public parks, and unique shops and breweries.Sticking with the route will take you about 4.5 miles, climbing over 1000 steps in total. However it's also easy to veer off the route at any point and head back into the heart of town.Depending on the time of year, there may be green arrows painted on the ground from the Bisbee 1000 official event, which display the way to the next staircase.The most plentiful parking is at the Brewery Gulch area, and it also makes the most sense to end your walk here as it is the heart of the shops, restaurants and breweries. The entire route is paved.