Replace the blocks with solid concrete that has a tread depth of 16".

Timely question, looks very much like the type of step I'm thinking of. So C.J., hope you don't mind if I horn in on your question.

We have few such blocks left over from another project. Husband believes (probably correctly, in my garden) that weeds will take over and grow in each hollow. So he proposes we get the matching cap piece and glue it to each block. The cap piece would measure about 2" thick, 16" wide and 13" deep. Yardvaark, does that sound workable?

I used to have a gravel sidewalk. It was like walking on marbles. I can’t imagine having steps consisting of gravel.

What do you guys think about putting the gravel in the garden beds, then laying sod on the treads instead? Soften it up a little

Wet grass is slippery.

Ughhh good point. I don’t like the idea of flying a cap to the top of each block because I feel like each step will be too high. Maybe I’ll just change the gravel out for more angular/rough gravel that sticks better.

Do you like the idea of doing switching and doing dark treads with light gravel in the garden beds on either side?