Ladder stands are essential for deer hunters who want a stable and comfortable vantage point. Unlike hang-on or climbing stands, ladder stands provide easy access, excellent stability, and increased safety. Whether you need a two-man stand for hunting with a partner or a portable option for mobility, finding the right ladder stand is key.
This guide reviews the best ladder stands for deer hunting in 2024, covering comfort, durability, portability, and affordability.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ladder Stand
Before diving into our top picks, here are some key factors to consider:
- Height & Visibility – Most ladder stands range from 15 to 21 feet. Higher stands offer better concealment and wider shooting angles.
- Comfort & Seat Design – Look for padded seats, armrests, and backrests for long hunting hours.
- Weight Capacity – Single-person stands usually support 250-300 lbs, while two-man stands can hold 500+ lbs.
- Portability & Setup – Some stands are easier to assemble and transport than others.
- Price & Durability – A good balance between affordability and long-lasting construction is important.
Top 10 Best Tree Ladder Stands for Deer Hunting
1. Best Overall: Guide Gear 20’ Ladder Tree Stand
The Guide Gear 20’ Ladder Tree Stand is a sturdy, high-reaching stand designed for hunters who need an elevated vantage point with comfort and security. Built with a durable steel frame, a spacious foot platform, and a padded seat, this stand ensures a stable and comfortable hunting experience. Perfect for bowhunters and rifle hunters alike, it provides excellent visibility while keeping you concealed from wary game.
Key Benefits:
- Height: 20 feet for excellent visibility.
- Durable Construction: Sturdy steel frame with weather-resistant coating.
- Comfortable Seat: Padded flip-up seat with backrest.
Pros: Easy to set up, budget-friendly, stable design.
Cons: Can be challenging to install solo.
2. Best 2-Man Ladder Stand: Muddy Stronghold 2.5 XTL
The Muddy Stronghold 2.5 XTL is the best 2-man ladder stand for hunters who want extra space, comfort, and stability. With a roomy platform and bench-style seat, this stand allows for quiet movement and comfortable all-day hunts. Its sturdy steel construction and XTL (Xtra Thick Lumber) design provide exceptional durability and safety, making it an excellent choice for hunting with a partner or mentor.
Key Benefits:
- Spacious Design: Extra-wide 40” platform and comfortable two-person seat.
- Safety Features: Padded shooting rail and stabilizing straps for security.
- Quiet Construction: Noise-free fasteners and non-slip foot platform.
Pros: Extra room, high weight capacity (500 lbs), solid build. Cons: Heavy and harder to transport.
3. Best Rated Ladder Stand: Rivers Edge Big Foot XL
The Rivers Edge Big Foot XL is the best-rated ladder stand for hunters who prioritize comfort, stability, and reliability. Featuring an extra-large platform, flip-up seat, and rock-solid construction, this stand offers ample space for maneuverability while remaining quiet and secure. With its trusted design and high user ratings, it’s a top choice for hunters seeking a dependable and comfortable elevated hunting experience.
Key Benefits:
- Large Platform: 24” x 37” non-slip foot platform.
- Silent Operation: No metal-on-metal contact for stealth.
- Padded Comfort: Extra-thick seat cushion.
Pros: Extremely sturdy, quiet setup, highly rated. Cons: Assembly requires at least two people.
4. Best Climbing Ladder Stand: X-Stand Treestands The Comrade X
The X-Stand Treestands The Comrade X is the best climbing ladder stand, designed for maximum comfort and stability. With its dual-seat setup, it’s perfect for hunting partners or extra space for gear. The HeliX oval tubing ensures quiet, sturdy climbing, while the Jaw Safety System provides enhanced security. If you’re looking for a spacious, durable, and stealthy ladder stand, the Comrade X is an excellent choice.
Key Benefits:
- Innovative Ladder System: Staggered step design for safer climbing.
- Extra-Long Footrest: Helps reduce fatigue.
- Dual-User Option: Can accommodate two hunters comfortably.
Pros: Safe climbing design, great for long hunting sessions. Cons: Bulky and difficult to transport.
5. Most Comfortable Ladder Stand: Hawk Big Denali 1.5 Man Ladder Stand
The Hawk Big Denali 1.5-Man Ladder Stand is renowned for its exceptional comfort and spacious design, making it a top choice for hunters seeking a comfortable elevated hunting experience. Featuring an extra-large mesh seat measuring 26 inches wide and 23 inches deep, it offers ample room for extended sits. The stand reaches a height of 20 feet, providing an excellent vantage point for spotting game. Constructed with heavy-duty steel and featuring the patent-pending SLS™ Stacking Ladder System, it ensures stability and safety during use.
Users have praised its sturdy construction and comfort, noting that the stand’s durability and safety features are impressive. One user highlighted the stand’s multiple attachment points to the tree, enhancing its stability. Another user mentioned that the seat is super comfortable, allowing for hours of use without issue.
However, some users have noted design changes in newer models, such as the seat bottom no longer folding up for easy entrance and narrower ladder rungs.
Overall, the Hawk Big Denali 1.5-Man Ladder Stand stands out for its comfort and spaciousness, making it a preferred choice for hunters planning long hours in the field.
For a detailed construction review of the Hawk Big Denali 1.5-Man Ladder Stand, you can watch the following video:
Key Benefits:
- Ergonomic Seat: XXL padded mesh seat with lumbar support.
- Solid Construction: Steel frame with powder-coat finish.
- Shooting Rail: Adjustable and removable for convenience.
Pros: Ultimate comfort, ergonomic design, easy assembly. Cons: Slightly expensive.
6. Best for Big Guys: Millennium Treestands L110
The Millennium Treestands L110 is the ultimate ladder stand for bigger hunters, offering unmatched comfort, space, and durability. Designed with a wide 21-inch seat and an extra-large foot platform, this stand ensures ample room for movement, making long hunting sessions more enjoyable.
Key Benefits:
Spacious Design – Extra-wide seat and roomy platform for maximum comfort. Heavy-Duty Construction – Built with durable steel to support larger hunters. Adjustable Shooting Rail – Provides stability and customization for different hunting styles. Silent & Comfortable – Millennium’s ComfortMAX seat ensures all-day comfort.
Pros: High weight capacity, extremely durable, adjustable features. Cons: Pricey and requires multiple people for setup.
7. Best for Women Hunters: Rivers Edge Lockdown Wide Ladder Stand
The Rivers Edge Lockdown Wide Ladder Stand is the perfect choice for women hunters, offering a blend of comfort, stability, and safety. With its extra-wide platform and flip-up seat, this stand provides ample space for easy movement while ensuring a secure hunting experience.
Key Benefits:
- Adjustable Seat Height: Customizable for smaller frames.
- Secure Climbing System: Extra handrails and safety harness included.
- Lightweight & Portable: Easier to set up compared to heavier models.
Pros: Designed for smaller hunters, safe and easy to use. Cons: Limited weight capacity (300 lbs).
8. Best Portable Ladder Stand: Big Game Hunter HD 1.5
The Big Game Hunter HD 1.5 is the ultimate portable ladder stand for serious hunters. Built for stability, comfort, and durability, it features a spacious platform, a sturdy steel frame, and a cushioned seat for all-day hunts. Easy to set up and transport, it’s perfect for maximizing your vantage point in the wild.
Key Benefits:
- Lightweight Design: Easier to move and set up.
- Comfortable Seat: Padded flip-up seat with armrests.
- Great for Public Land: Easy to disassemble and relocate.
Pros: Portable, lightweight, good balance of comfort and affordability. Cons: Slightly lower weight capacity (300 lbs).
10. Best Accessories for Ladder Stands
Enhance your hunting experience with these top ladder stand accessories:
- Safety Harness – Essential for staying secure while elevated.
- Shooting Rail Pad – Adds comfort and stability for better aim.
- Treestand Blind Kit – Provides extra concealment from game.
- Gear Hoist Rope – Conveniently lifts your firearm or bow.
- Padded Seat Cushion – Increases comfort for long sits.
- Footrest Kit – Reduces fatigue and improves posture.
These accessories ensure safety, comfort, and a more successful hunt from your ladder stand.
- Harness & Safety Straps: Essential for preventing falls.
- Shooting Rest: Improves stability for accurate shots.
- Seat Cushion: Adds extra comfort for long hunts.
Pros: Increases comfort and safety. Cons: Additional cost.
FAQ Section
1. What is the best height for a ladder stand?
Most hunters prefer between 15-20 feet for optimal visibility and safety.
2. Are ladder stands hard to set up?
Some require two people for installation, especially taller models.
3. Can ladder stands be used for elk hunting?
Yes! Many ladder stands work well for elk hunting in forested areas.
4. What is the most comfortable ladder stand?
The Hawk Big Denali 1.5 Man Ladder Stand offers premium comfort.
5. What’s the best ladder stand for big hunters?
The Millennium Treestands L110 has a 400-lb weight capacity and an extra-wide seat.
6. Can I find good ladder stands at Walmart?
Yes, Walmart carries affordable options like the Ameristep 15’ Ladder Stand.
Final Thoughts For Best Ladder Tree Stands
Choosing the right ladder stand depends on your needs, budget, and hunting style. Whether you want the best 2-man stand, the most portable option, or the most comfortable seat, this guide covers the top-rated ladder stands for deer hunting in 2024.
Safety Tip: Always secure your stand properly, wear a harness, and use a lifeline when hunting from elevated positions.
Ready to elevate your hunting game? Choose the best ladder stand that fits your style and hunt with confidence!
