If you run a roof rack, a rooftop tent, or a loaded cargo platform, getting up there is the part nobody plans for. A rear hatch ladder solves it, and it is one of the simplest additions you can make to a Subaru overland build. Here is what it does, how it works on the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback, and how to pick the right one.
A rear ladder mounts to your hatch and gives you a stable set of steps to reach your roof rack or platform without climbing on the bumper or the tire. It also makes it easier to load and secure gear, check straps and tie-downs before a drive, or get a better vantage point for some good views.
If you run a clamshell style rooftop tent, a rear ladder is also useful second way in and out. Most clamshell tents fold up when not in use, so a dedicated tent-access ladder is often awkward to reach and gets in the way when the tent is closed. A hatch ladder gives you a clean, always-available way to climb up without dealing with the tent's own ladder every time.
And yes, it just looks good back there too!
The NashFab Aluminum Rear Ladder is a common choice for Subaru builds because it is a clean, no-drill design that mounts to the hatch itself rather than requiring any bodywork.
The core design is the same across vehicles: one-piece aluminum construction, a weld-free mount that clamps to the hatch, and a matte black powder coat finish. It weighs a fraction of a comparable steel ladder, and each step has a grippy surface so it stays usable in wet or muddy conditions. No drilling and no modification to the hatch is required for any fitment plus it doesn't require any upgrades for the struts, ensuring you still open the hatch all the way.
The ladder frame also opens up extra real estate for mounting gear like a RotopaX fuel or water container, a shovel, or a propane bottle, all common additions for a Subaru overland build. It's a practical way to get that gear off your roof rack and onto the back of the vehicle instead.
The Crosstrek ladder mounts to the driver side of the rear hatch and pairs well with any platform-style roof rack, since it puts you right at the back edge of the rack for loading and unloading and can be found here!
Forester owners get the same driver-side mount and aluminum build. Because the Forester's roof sits a bit higher and often carries a heavier rack setup, the ladder is especially useful for anyone loading bulky items like a rooftop tent, cargo box, or extra fuel and water containers. Find it here!
The Outback version mounts the same way and is a common match for platform racks from brands like Nash Fab. Outback owners running a clamshell rooftop tent often point to the ladder as one of the more used accessories on their build, since it gives them an easier way in and out than the tent's own folding ladder, check it out here!
Hatch assist struts. Some owners note that the added weight on the hatch can occasionally trigger the obstruction sensor on power hatches, requiring a light manual assist for the first inch of opening. This is a minor quirk, not a fault, and it is common across ladder brands. But due to the light weight, doesn't need new struts!
Roof rack clearance. If you are running a platform rack, check clearance between the rack's rear crossbar and the ladder when the hatch is fully open. Most Subaru platform racks, including Prinsu and Rhino-Rack, clear without issue, but it is worth a quick look at your specific setup.
Weight capacity. The ladder is rated for climbing plus mounted accessories like a RotopaX or shovel, but it's not meant to carry loose or oversized loads. Mount gear properly with the right brackets rather than hanging things off the steps themselves.\
A rear ladder makes the most sense alongside a roof rack and rooftop tent setup, and it is worth planning for at the same time you spec out your rack. If you are still deciding on a rack, our Subaru Roof Rack Buying Guide and Rooftop Tent Buying Guide cover how to match a rack and tent to your vehicle and travel style.
Have questions about fitment or what pairs best with your setup? Reach out to our team, and we'll help you get it right. We ship Canada-wide with duties and fees included, or stop by the shop in Calgary and we'll walk you through it in person.
