Running up the side of Mt Eliza, Jacob's Ladder presents a challenge to both young and old.  Original plans opted for a road up the side of Mt Eliza called Tryphena Terrace.  That was nearly 100 years ago, and the idea was subsequently dropped, when it was pointed out the family 4WD was not yet in production.  In fact the gradient is so steep, even Sir Edmund Hilary would have trouble getting a Toyota up it today.  One step at a time was the answer.

Sliding down the hand rails might be quicker, however "hot pants" are no longer considered fashionable around Perth.  

In 1909 Joseph Huck and Sons, constructed a staircase based on plans provided by the Perth City Engineer, Mr Henry Payne.  Locals marvelled at this engineering feat, including real estate agent Cyril Dent.  As a joke he erected a sign saying, "This way to Jacob's Ladder", in reference to that other famous ladder in the Bible.  Everybody laughed at the time, however the name remained.

Nearly there! Is that a big tube of toothpaste on my left, or am I just exhausted?

PERTH ALERT:   The walk up and down Jacob's Ladder can really knock you about.   If you start at the base and walk up, you will be guaranteed of a 200 degree panorama at the top.  In fact, by the time your head stops spinning it might have gone another 200 degrees.   For this reason, Life On Perth suggests you should always commence Jacob's Ladder from the top and then slowly work down.

Looking down into the pit!

CLIMBING TIP: After exhaustive research (and I mean exhaustive), I discovered it was easier to stride every step on the way down, and every second step on the way up.  It's even easier if you just stay at the top, and look at the view.

A Common Mistake:  A brisk walk up the stairs may at first generate a somewhat a distorted view of Perth.

Professional stair climbers discussing tactics before heading down.  These guys take it seriously, so always stick to the left, and let them do all the passing.  If you carry a camera and map, you will be excused for stopping at each landing.  Just don't ask for directions!

The original construction fee was only 171 pounds, as the Huck boys had whipped it up on the cheap.  The wooden structure was a little rough around the edges.  Local lads were soon sliding down the sides of the staircase on iron sheets, for the ultimate early 1900's thrill ride.  Nobody seemed concerned that the entire staircase was starting to fall apart.  Somebody did notice in 1961, and decided to close it down.

View from the top of Jacob's Ladder.

Jacob's Ladder was then reconstructed in the 1960's, with two hundred and forty two concrete steps and a lookout at the top.  Today it serves as a shortcut up Mt Eliza, and a challenge to lunchtime office workers shaking off those extra kilos.

LOCATION:  The steep drop at the end of Cliff Street, West Perth.