How to Dig Steps Into a Dirt Bank

Determine the size of the step by considering the height and angle of the bank, and whether the step will accommodate one or more people at the same time. For example, a gently sloping bank only a couple of feet high may require only three steps, each rising six inches with a tread area several feet long between them. A high and steep bank may require many more steps with much smaller treads.

Dig horizontally into the base of the slope, cutting a flat platform the width and depth of the desired step. Cut the back of the excavation to form a vertical wall.

Rest a length of planking along the top edge of the back of the step. Mark the width of the step on the plank, then cut it to the width of the step. Place the planking on its edge at the back of the tread and push it firmly against the earth riser.

Position a wooden stake in front of the each end of the wooden plank and drive them into the ground until they are flush with the top edge of the plank. Optionally, drive a third stake in half-way along the width of the riser to provide additional strength. This forms, and secures, the first wooden riser.

Cut the next horizontal step flush with the top of the first riser, copying the process used in Step 1. When the tread area has been excavated, cut a second strip of wooden plank to match the width of the step, rest it on its edge and the back of the step and secure it with two wooden stakes. Fill any spaces behind the risers with excavated soil and tamp in down firmly.

Cut additional steps and secure a wooden riser at the back of each one until the desired number of steps have been created.