About the Trail:
The Ladder Trail is one of Saba's most iconic hikes, beginning in the village of The Bottom and winding its way towards Wells Bay. Historically, this steep trail served a crucial role for the island, as it was the primary route used by locals to carry goods, mail, and supplies up from the rocky shoreline after being offloaded from boats.
Before the construction of the island’s modern harbor, everything—from livestock to barrels of goods—had to be painstakingly hauled up the 800+ stone steps.
As you ascend the trail, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and have the opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, such as the Red-billed Tropicbird, and unique trees like the Kapok and Silk Cotton. The views as you climb higher are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding ocean and rugged coastline. The remnants of old structures and pathways serve as reminders of the trail’s historical importance, giving you a sense of the island’s past.
Practical Information:
• Hiking shoes are recommended.
• Because it is so steep, a roundtrip hike typically takes about 1 hour.
• For more information on this hike have a look at the map below.