Hike This Stairway To Nowhere In Texas For A Magical Woodland Adventure
By Katie Lawrence|Published July 29, 2019
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
When you hear the words “stairway to nowhere,” a horror movie is likely the first thing that comes to mind. This one hiding in Waco couldn’t be any more unlike that; in fact, it resembles a scene from a children’s fairytale. Climb Jacob’s Ladder for an enchanting woodland adventure guaranteed to forever leave an imprint in your mind.
Originally built in the early 1900s by a family who lived atop the cliff, this fairytale staircase is tucked away in a thick forest grove where no one would expect to find it. More than 100 steps appear to trail off into oblivion, so only those brave enough to ascend them discover where they lead.
Get ready for a workout! The hike is rather challenging, with each successive step stoking the already raging fire in your legs. Difficult as the trek may be, it's short, sweet, and offers breathtaking waterfront views once the hard part is all said and done.
It's understandable to keep your eye on the finish line, but don't forget to enjoy the journey as well. Lush greenery surrounds the trail from start to finish, a scene reminiscent of a fanciful children's storybook.
Upon reaching the summit, get ready for some killer riverfront views. You'll be in a prime position to witness one of Texas' classic summer sunsets, so try to time your hike accordingly!
When it comes time to descend the staircase, an opposing perspective showcases the scenery in a completely different way. It's like stepping through a magic portal into a world similar to, but not quite the same as, our own. Everything is shifted ever so slightly from when you initially climbed up.
Other park attractions include a scenic overlook, wooded canyon with river access, fountain, a zoo, and plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas for friends and family to gather. It's easy to spend a full day of fun in the sun at this incredible, 400-acre oasis!
Have you ever climbed Jacob’s Ladder at Cameron Park? If so, let us know how the hike was! Check out our previous article for some considerably less intense trails with equally promising views: 11 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Texas.
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