When, Where, How

Every year, on September 11th, we meet at the foot of the Battle Mountain Grand Staircase. Sign in begins at 6:00 am. Climbers must sign a waiver,

but there is no charge for this event.

Minors must have the signature of a guardian.

Non-climbers are encouraged to join us to share in remembrance

and to support those who climb with your enthusiasm and admiration.

The program begins approximately 6:30 a.m. Promptly at 6:46 a.m. we begin the Flight of Silence—when 11 climbers, led by a flag bearer, have climbed up and down the staircase once, the silence ends with the singing of the national anthem and climbers are then free to speak and

enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow climbers.

If you cannot get there by 6:46, come when you can.

The Challenge Director is happy to stay until the last climber finishes.

Climb as much as you are able. Climb until you need to leave for work.

Climb in remembrance.

"If you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right."

Henry Ford

Battle Mountain Grand Staircase

The 9/11 Grand Stair Challenge is a unique event. Every year we meet

at the foot of the

Battle Mountain Grand Staircase, downtown Hot Springs, to climb the

141-step staircase with friends, neighbors and friends we have not met.

Flight of Silence

At 6:46 a.m., the time of the first attack on the World Trade Towers, we begin with a lap of silence—one trip up and down equals one lap.

Last Man Climbing

15 laps is roughly equivalent to climbing up and down one of the

World Trade Towers. Consider challenging yourself to climb one or more 'towers." The record is 86 flights (more than five towers), held by

Jeffrey VanMeter.

(Pictured above carrying flag.)

Remembering

The primary reason for this event is to remember the heroes and victims of 9/11; indeed, to remember the victims of terrorist attacks any time, any place.

Climbing for Dollars

However, it also serves as a fundraiser for Challenge Dakota; an anonymous donor gives Challenge $1.00 for every flight climbed.

Little Steps Mean a Lot

That means that every time you complete one lap (up and down the 141 steps) Challenge receives $1.00. Last year we raised $800 for

Challenge Dakota.