1997 Dodge Dakota Tailgate Steps & Truck Bed Ladders

Benefits of Tailgate Steps and Truck Bed Ladders

Climbing in and out of your pickup's bed can be a hassle, primarily if you work out of your pickup or regularly haul cargo in the bed. Instead of suffering from achy knees and a sore back, invest in a quality tailgate step or truck bed ladder from RealTruck. 

Much like running boards and nerf bars, these convenient steps and ladders provide an easily accessible foothold, allowing you to climb effortlessly into and out of your truck's bed. Whether reorganizing cargo, loading gear, or grabbing tools out of the chest, truck tailgate steps and ladders significantly boost effectiveness. Installation is also a breeze, as most kits feature a simple, bolt-on design that you can install in under an hour. Quality bed steps are one of the best truck bed accessories for the money and effort.

Tailgate Step & Ladder Styles

Tailgate steps and ladders come in several different styles, with each featuring unique benefits,  including:

Retractable

These minimalistic side steps feature a unique hinged design, allowing them to retract out of the way when not in use. When not used, retractable steps maintain your truck's sleek factory body lines. Whenever you need a boost, kick the bed step down.

RealTruck Expert Pick: AMP Research BedStep™

Why we love it: 

• High-strength aluminum alloy frame

• Glass-reinforced non-slip step pad

• Convenient, retractable design

• 300 lbs. weight rating

• Simple bolt-on installation on most applications

• Some drilling may be required

• 3-year limited warranty

Side Mount

Side-mount bed steps make grabbing tools and cargo a breeze. Whereas most steps are engineered for bed access at the tailgate, side-mount steps are mounted before the rear tire, allowing you to hoist yourself up and over the bedside or reach into the bed for supplies.

RealTruck Expert Pick: Dee Zee Side Box Step

Why we love it: 

• Durable steel construction

• Gloss black powder-coat finish

• 4-in. by 4-in. non-slip step surface enhances traction

• Attaches to driver-side in front of rear wheel

• Includes vehicle-specific mount plate

• No-drill installation

• Provides a safe step up to reach inside your bed

• 3-year limited warranty

Fixed Position

Like retractable steps, fixed-position bed steps are mounted at the rear corner of the bed. However, unlike retractable steps, fixed-position steps don't tuck away from view. While less aesthetically pleasing, fixed-position steps are typically sturdier than their retractable counterparts.

RealTruck Expert Pick: Dee Zee Bumper Step

Why we love it: 

• High-grade steel construction

• Corrosion-resistant gloss black powder coat finish

• 4-in. by 4-in. non-slip step surface enhances traction

• Driver's-side fitment

• Vehicle-specific mounting plate and hardware

• Simple no-drill installation

• Provides easy access to your truck bed

• Backed with a limited 3-year warranty

Truck Bed Ladder

When a single step isn't enough, break out the truck bed ladder. Truck bed ladders are excellent for lifted trucks. These collapsible ladders fold out of the way when not in use but extend outwards from the tailgate to form a complete ladder whenever bed access is needed. Most truck bed ladders feature lightweight aluminum construction to keep the tailgate light and make extending a breeze.

RealTruck Expert Pick: Westin Truck-Pal Tailgate Ladder Step

Why we love it: 

• Rugged 6005A-T6 aluminum construction

• Folds up and out of the way when not in use

• Easy and quick installation

• Compatible with tailgate heights up to 38 in. 

• Limited 3-year warranty