How to build a Staircase to my lake?

Hi, I've been trying to find a good way to pay back my family for all they do for me. So I am planning on making a staircase from the top of my cabin down to our lake. Every year, the whole family always says they wish we had stairs, but no one has ever taken the incentive.
What kind of wood should I use to build the steps?
What should I use to support the steps?
I live in minnesota, so i'm guessing there is going to be a problem with the frost.
Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
I took some rough measurements and its about a 75 ft slant down to the lake and about 40 ft tall, i'll have more precise measurements tomorrow. http://img123.imageshack.us/i/img0016n.jpg/ http://img115.imageshack.us/i/img0014m.jpg/ http://img195.imageshack.us/i/img0018l.jpg/

Due to the distance to the lake and the height you need to go, my suggestion would be a timber staircase. I have built a few and although the timbers are somewhat expensive, they will add a considerable value to your property. just start at the bottom and work your way up, and be sure to keep EVERY timber level all the way around, top to bottom, side to side, and front to back. Drill a hole through the top timber (but not the bottom one) matching the size of spike you are using, and use a BFH 3# or bigger to pound it in. After you get your first step in and everything is level, the remaining steps should go somewhat easier. After the first step, fill in with Class 5 rock (which is cheaper than concrete). Put in a thin layer of Class 5, tamp it down and continue this process until the step is filled. Even in Minnesota, you should not have any problems with frost with a Timber Staircase.