Nestled in the quiet suburban enclave of Dunedin, New Zealand, lies Baldwin Street, a road that stretches no more than 350 meters but rises abruptly to earn its title as the world's steepest street, according to the Guinness World Records. This remarkable road has captivated both locals and tourists, presenting a peculiar challenge for walkers and a picturesque view once they reach the summit.
The ascent of Baldwin Street is an impressive feat. It begins benignly but quickly rears up to a punishing slope, with its steepest segment boasting a gradient of about 1:2.86—that is, for every 2.86 meters traveled horizontally, the elevation changes by 1 meter. This angle translates to a 35% grade, which can turn a simple stroll into a strenuous hike.
Originally laid out in a grid pattern without consideration for the natural topography, Baldwin Street runs north-south from the valley of the Lindsay Creek up the slopes of Signal Hill. The street was named after William Baldwin, an early Otago provincial councillor and newspaper founder, who subdivided the area in the mid-19th century. It is paved partly in concrete, which was necessary to prevent the road surface from eroding under the assault of rain and frequent tire grips.
The unique characteristics of Baldwin Street have turned it into a hub for unusual events and competitions, attracting thrill-seekers and tourists from around the world. An annual event famously associated with Baldwin Street is the Baldwin Street Gutbuster, a race to the top and back that challenges both the speed and stamina of its participants. Another whimsical event is the Jaffa Race, where thousands of small, orange-coated chocolate candies are rolled down the slope, turning a quirky idea into a fun-filled spectacle for charity.
Despite being superseded briefly in 2019 by Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech, Wales, Baldwin Street reclaimed its record later in the year when the criteria for measuring the steepest street were reviewed by Guinness World Records. The street remains a symbol of the curious and charming challenges posed by the natural landscapes of New Zealand, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the locals who not only devised ways to navigate this steep slope but turned it into an internationally recognized landmark. Baldwin Street continues to be a testament to the quirkiness and inventiveness with which communities embrace their natural environments.
