If you’re looking for a quick local adventure that doesn’t take an entire day but still leaves your legs burning and your camera full, head west to the community of Verrado in Buckeye. Tucked against the White Tank Mountains, this master-planned neighborhood feels like a small town pulled straight from a postcard — complete with a quaint Main Street, friendly locals, and one serious workout known as the Victory Steps.
A Stairway with a Desert View
The Victory Steps are a short but steep climb built into the hillside at the edge of Verrado’s Victory District. There are just over 300 stairs in total — made from sturdy railroad ties that zig-zag their way up the slope — but don’t let the number fool you. By the time you reach the top, your calves will be screaming, and your heart will be thanking you.
It’s one of those workouts that looks easy from the bottom until you’re halfway up wondering why the ground keeps tilting away from you. The reward, though, is worth every step: wide-open views of Verrado below, the desert stretching toward the horizon, and the White Tanks rising dramatically behind you.
Many locals treat it like their own outdoor gym. On any given morning, you’ll find joggers, families, and fitness enthusiasts taking on the stairs multiple times in a row. Some go up and down two or three times — others, like us, six rounds — turning the short climb into a full-blown leg workout. Let’s just say my calves were still feeling it the next day.
Make a Day of It
Once you’ve conquered the steps, the best part of Verrado is how easy it is to turn the morning hike into a relaxed day trip. Just a few minutes away, the Main Street District feels like an old-fashioned small town with modern touches. Palm-lined sidewalks lead past cafés, boutiques, and shady patios where you can refuel with a sandwich, iced coffee, or maybe a well-earned dessert.
The atmosphere is calm and walkable — the kind of place where you slow down and enjoy yourself. If you’re coming from the East Valley, it’s about an hour’s drive, and the contrast is striking. After the steady hum of city life, Verrado’s quiet streets and mountain backdrop feel like a breath of fresh air.
Tips for Your Climb
Go early in the morning for cooler temperatures and softer light — the sunrise from the top is worth setting the alarm. Bring water, wear good shoes, and if you plan to do multiple rounds, take breaks between sets. The stairs can get warm as the day goes on, but the view never disappoints.
A Simple, Satisfying Escape
There’s something about the Victory Steps that captures the spirit of Arizona living — simple, outdoorsy, and rewarding. It’s not a big hike or an all-day trip, but it’s just enough to challenge you, clear your head, and remind you why winter is the best season to be outside here. Pair it with lunch on Main Street, and you’ve got yourself a perfect little day in Verrado — complete with sore calves and a story to tell.
