Located along Cameron Park Drive in Waco, Jacob's Ladder is a distinctive park destination that has earned an impressive 4.7-star rating across 638 Google reviews. Known for its older, rudimentary build, this memorable attraction challenges guests with a climb consisting of 88 stairs. The ascent features steps with risers that vary noticeably in height, making certain stretches much steeper and more demanding than others. While the hike up does not take very long to complete, it delivers an intense leg and lung workout that can easily test personal endurance and be tough on the knees.
To assist guests during the rigorous climb, the stairway is equipped with handrails, and climbers can take advantage of two resting spots along the way to pause and catch their breath. Visitors often discover the climb while exploring Cameron Park to play disc golf, with some hikers noticing encouraging painted rocks tucked along the path or appreciating the backstory of Jacob's Ladder as they make their way to the top. It serves as a famously strenuous and rewarding stop for active visitors traversing Cameron Park.
Leah G.
9 months ago
Awesome climb! Counted 88 stairs. A bit hard on the knees at times because some are MUCH steeper than others. Definitely make use of the handrails. A bit difficult at times but there are two spots to stop and catch your breath if needed. Found an encouraging painted rock on the way up. Difficult climb but not impossible. Definitely give it a try.
Roger Croft
2 weeks ago
Absolutely horrible. I went to Jacob’s Ladder thinking I was going for a nice little walk and instead discovered muscles in my legs that apparently haven’t been used since 1998. Halfway up I was questioning every life decision I’ve ever made, my lungs gave up just a few steps up, and I’m pretty sure I briefly saw the gates of heaven. The view at the top? Unfortunately beautiful. The workout? Disgustingly effective. The sense of accomplishment afterward? Completely unacceptable. Would I do it again? Absolutely. Because apparently I hate myself. Five stars. Terrible place. Highly recommend.
Jill Meade
a year ago
We came to the park to play disc golf and saw this so we hiked up. Didn't take long to ascend but be aware that the step risers vary in height (and are def not to code haha )because of its older rudimentary build. Very cool though! We liked the backstory of Jacob's ladder and were glad we did it before playing DG.
Darren Bell
4 years ago
This is one of my favorite parks in Texas and I've lived in Waco for 3 years. And always visit the park and also Lake Waco. You can: Hike the 20mile Trail that includes bicycle Trails During spring and summer, they have kayaking and other water sports. Definitely can visit all seasons
Travis
a year ago
Went to go try and get some video footage of Jacob's Ladder and I ran into one of the closest people I deployed to the middle east with that I hadn't seen 15 years. The steps aren't even so please watch your step. You're not skipping leg day on Jacob's Ladder.