FAQs
For training purposes, how many steps are in the entire climb route?
1
The climb route begins in Section 7 and ends in Section 31. Only the ascending stairs are counted toward the total; descending stairs are not included.
In total, climbers will complete the equivalent of 110 stories—the combined height of the World Trade Center towers—which equals approximately 2,226 steps.
What's included with my registration?
2
Event T-shirt
Honor Badge
Challenge Coin
Are there fitness level restrictions?
3
Participants are responsible for assessing their own fitness level prior to participating.
If at any point the climb becomes too difficult, participants are encouraged to slow down, take a break, or stop climbing in the interest of safety.
All participants must sign a liability waiver prior to participating.
Are there any age restrictions?
4
There are no age restrictions for participation.
Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Any child who is willing and able to complete the climb must be registered.
What are the qualifications for the "Geared Up" category?
5
Requirements:
Participants must wear a minimum of 30 pounds of gear for the entirety of the climb. Acceptable options include:
Turnouts
Ruck sack
Air pack
Weighted vest
Duty gear (or equivalent)
This weight symbolizes both the physical burden and sacrifice of those being honored.
Participants who successfully complete all 110 stories while geared up will receive a commemorative patch recognizing their endurance, commitment, and dedication to honoring the fallen.
Where do I park? Is there a fee?
6
Parking is available free of charge in Autzen Stadium's Entry 5 parking lot off Leo Harris Parkway.
Participant check-in and registration will take place at the East Gate of Autzen Stadium.
Look for the American flag suspended between two ladder trucks—you'll know you're in the right place.
What is the climb route? How long will it take?
7
The climb route consists of approximately one full lap around the stadium bowl, ascending and descending sections that collectively equal 110 stories—the height of the World Trade Center towers.
Depending on participation levels and individual fitness, the climb may take anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours to complete.
This event is not a race. Participants are encouraged to climb at a pace that is meaningful and comfortable for them.
Will there be music during the climb?
8
The Pipes & Drums Processional will lead participants into the stadium bowl.
Once the procession concludes, there will be no music played throughout the climb.
This event is intended to be a time of remembrance and reflection.
Participants are welcome to use personal music devices with headphones; however, we encourage climbers to embrace the quiet moments, listen to the footsteps around them, and reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the firefighters and first responders of September 11, 2001.
Will water be provided?
9
Yes. Water stations will be located throughout the climbing route.
Participants are encouraged to hydrate well before arriving at the event.
Will emergency medical personnel be on site?
10
Yes. Local emergency responders and medical personnel will be on site throughout the duration of the event.
In the event of an emergency, event volunteers will immediately communicate with emergency personnel.
What if the weather does not cooperate?
11
The climb will take place rain or shine.
In the event of severe weather or unsafe air quality conditions, the event may be postponed or canceled.
Any weather-related updates will be communicated via email and posted on the event website and social media channels.
How are the proceeds from the event used?
12
One hundred percent of event proceeds are reinvested into future 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs.
Our goal is to ensure this event continues as a meaningful annual tradition that honors the lives lost and the heroes who responded on September 11, 2001.