Most people head to Quebec City for its cobblestoned streets and European vibe. But one overlooked geographic fact is a great asset: the city is connected by over 40 staircases. And what better way to see the city than by climbing them? The annual Défi des Escaliers, or Staircase Challenge, takes place this year on June 20, where hoards of locals and visitors climb more than 30 staircases in one afternoon, on what organizers describe as the only urban trail in the province of Quebec. Each staircase has a name and a story (the intimidatingly named Breakneck Stairs are the oldest in the city). Routes vary, and can run 19km and under, with shorter runs for kids and walkers. Read more.

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