Jacob's Ladder — Attraction in West Perth

A Metaphysical Ascent to the Sublime**

Climbing Jacob’s Ladder is not merely an exercise in physical endurance—it is a pilgrimage into the abyss of human will, a Sisyphean ordeal disguised as a staircase. Each step is a confrontation with existence itself, a brutal reminder of gravity’s tyranny and the fragile defiance of the body. The air may not thin as it does on Everest, but the soul gasps all the same.

This is no simple ascent; it is a vertical odyssey, a gauntlet thrown down by the architects of urban austerity. The relentless repetition of steps becomes a meditation—monastic, masochistic, transcendent. Are you climbing toward enlightenment, or is the climb itself the enlightenment? The distinction blurs with every burning quadricep, every labored breath.

At the summit (if such a term can be used for a peak that feels both infinitesimal and infinite), one does not find a flag, a photo op, or even a view worthy of postcards. No—what one finds is the raw, unvarnished truth: that the climb was never about the destination, but the act of rebellion against the inertia of modern life. Jacob’s Ladder does not care if you conquer it. It asks only that you attempt, and in that attempt, confront the absurdity of your own ambition.

Five stars. Not because it is easy, but because it is hard. Not because it is Everest, but because, for those who dare its heights, it...

Jacob's Ladder is an outdoor staircase in Perth, Western Australia. Consisting of 242 concrete steps, the staircase links the north-east corner of King's Park with the Swan River, though it is not part of Kings Park itself. Beginning at the top end of Cliff Street and leading down to Mounts Bay Road, Jacob's Ladder is a popular site for Perth residents to exercise.

Originally known as Cliff Street Stairway, it was originally constructed in 1909 as a straight staircase of 274 jarrah steps as a cheaper alternative to a road for Mount Eliza residents to reach the river. According to legend, it acquired its current name from a local real estate agent who placed a sign at the base of the staircase, in reference to both the Bible story about a ladder to heaven and the stunning views at the top of the structure. The original wooden structure was closed and demolished in 1961 due to safety concerns and replaced by the winding concrete staircase still in use today.

According to legend, Herb Elliott trained on the original timber version of Jacob's Ladder before it was replaced by its current concrete and...

Located just off Cliff Street, West Perth, Jacob's ladder is a Perth landmark known for its popularity among fitness lovers. From the top, you are greeted by sweeping views of the city and the Swan River. At 242 steps, it's a challenging and enjoyable exercise. You can walk or run it at your own pace. There's even a set of pull up bars at the bottom, not to mention a cafe for that post work out caffeine fix.

I've been doing it for 2 years and really enjoy it. It's a great way to start your day, especially before sunrise (don't worry - it's well lit and there are usually plenty of people around). There's ample parking too.

Being popular means that it can get busy. But people that do Jacob's ladder are pretty friendly, so you often meet new, like-minded people, which adds a nice social aspect.

All in all, it's a great cardio workout for those looking to try something different and who enjoy outdoor exercise. I...