An apparatus 10 provides easy, stable positioning of a ladder within a stairwell. The apparatus 10 includes multiple base portions 14, 24 which traverse and rest upon multiple steps 20, 28. Sidewall braces 38, 40 adjustably engage the stairwell sidewalls to inhibit lateral movement of the base portions 14, 24. A bracket 52 is pivotally connected to the base of the ladder and rotatably connected to the base portions 24. Accordingly, the ladder is free to be manually rotated and pivoted to rest against any of the walls forming the stairwell.