Abstract: A portable elevator for use as a substitute for a ladder is disclosed. The elevator includes a track having a pair of upright, guide rails. A movable platform is slidably secured to the guide rails and is adapted for up and down movement upon the guide rails. A winch is affixed to the bottom of the track for moving the platform upon the guide rails. The winch has an electric motor and a drum that is rotated by the motor. A stationary pulley is secured to the top of the track, and a movable pulley is secured to the top of the movable platform. A cable is wound upon the drum and extends from the drum and around the stationary pulley and the movable pulley. The energization of the motor selectively draws the cable onto the drum to elevate the movable platform upon the track.