What is the steepest incline in the world?

The King of the Hill: Baldwin Street’s Reign as Steepest Street

For those thrill-seekers and incline enthusiasts, there’s a certain allure to conquering the steepest climbs. And when it comes to streets, one name reigns supreme: Baldwin Street in Dunedin, New Zealand. After a brief period of uncertainty and a spirited challenge from across the globe, Baldwin Street reclaimed its crown as the world’s steepest street in 2020, cementing its legendary status.

The story of Baldwin Street’s dominance isn’t without its twists and turns. In 2019, the Welsh village of Harlech laid claim to the coveted title, boasting that Ffordd Pen Llech, with its purported 37.45% gradient, had dethroned the long-standing champion. This sparked a flurry of international interest, a surge of tourism to the quaint Welsh village, and a renewed focus on accurately measuring inclines.

However, the reign of Ffordd Pen Llech was short-lived. Following the challenge, a thorough reassessment of both streets was undertaken using more precise surveying techniques. This investigation revealed a critical discrepancy in the initial measurements of the Welsh contender. It turned out that Ffordd Pen Llech, while undeniably steep, possessed a gentler gradient than originally believed, clocking in at a respectable but not record-breaking incline.

This revelation led to the official reinstatement of Baldwin Street as the world’s steepest street in 2020. With its daunting 34.8% gradient (a rise of 1 in 2.86), Baldwin Street once again stands alone at the pinnacle of precipitous roadways. This translates to a dramatic elevation gain over a short distance, making it a challenging climb for even the fittest individuals, and a thrilling descent for those brave enough to roll down (though not recommended!).

The story of Baldwin Street’s reaffirmed dominance isn’t just about bragging rights for a small New Zealand city. It highlights the importance of accurate measurement and the rigorous process required to verify such claims. It also underscores the enduring human fascination with extremes, and the allure of conquering seemingly impossible challenges. So, while other contenders may emerge in the future, for now, Baldwin Street sits firmly atop the throne, a testament to its truly impressive incline and a must-see destination for anyone seeking a uniquely steep experience.