Christopherson Steps

Christopherson Steps in Surrey, BC is short, sharp, and way more of a workout than the stats suggest. This 0.3 km out-and-back route drops about 40 metres in just 188 steps, so your legs will know they’ve done something, even if it only takes around 6 minutes. It’s a simple idea: a stairway down the bluff toward Mud Bay and Crescent Beach, but locals love it for quick training laps and easy access to the shoreline.

The walk itself is straightforward: head down the wooden steps through a strip of coastal forest, cross the railway overpass, and you’re rewarded with open views over the water and tidal flats. On clear days you can see across Boundary Bay, with a mix of sky, sea, and shoreline that feels surprisingly open for being so close to suburban Surrey. It’s often confused with the nearby 1001 Steps, but Christopherson Steps is quieter and feels more like a local shortcut to the beach than a full “hike.”

Recent visitors report the steps and rail overpass in good shape, with that 40 metres of elevation feeling steep but manageable for most people. The trail is rated very easy, but anyone with knee issues should take their time on the descent and especially on the climb back up. Go in dry weather if you can, as the steps can get slick in heavy rain, and expect more people on sunny weekends when everyone is chasing those coastal views without committing to a long hike.