The Alternating-Tread Stairway is a hybrid between a ladder and a conventional stairway for accessing the farm shop storage lofts or racks. Less steep than a ladder, the Alternating-Tread Stairway provides adequately wide treads without the need for having large vertical steps. This allows the worker to descend facing forward with hands free, permitting him/her to carry a small load. The stairway also takes up less space than a standard staircase and can be either portable or fastened permanently for access to upper levels.