Stars, Stripes & Steps

Stars, Stripes & Steps is a stair-climb event in Hot Springs, South Dakota that honors America’s fallen heroes while using the town’s historic staircases, streets and trails. Online registration opens February 1, 2026 and closes May 23, 2026; in-person registration is available Sunday evening and Monday morning. Kids under 18 register for $15, and children four and under may accompany a parent or guardian at no charge (no shirt, medal, or swag). All participants must complete a waiver.

The event offers multiple route options that combine stair flights, hills and scenic sections. Route details and step counts may change based on final routing and local construction.

Distances:

• Sock Hop - 2 miles, 2 flights of stairs, 264 steps
• Crazy Crew 5K - 5 kilometers (3.1 miles), 5 flights, 655 steps
• Knee High Hilly Half Marathon - 13.1 miles, 6 flights, 744 steps; participants must be 12 years or older and this route is not walker friendly

The event is generally walker friendly except for the half marathon. Strollers are not allowed on stair sections except on the zero-stair flip-flop romp. Leashed and well behaved dogs may participate following city rules. Park activities include a kid zone, Mammoth Science Zone and Mammoth Mini Golf.

Organizers note recent highway work is complete but some staircases and a bridge remain closed for replacement; a committee and a dedicated fund support long-term staircase preservation and restoration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.