“Technical” (rope and harness) tree climbing is a fun and relaxing activity, but it requires patience and practice to master. The skills required are fairly easy to learn, and just about anybody, no matter their age, can do it! It is also one of the safest activities on earth – to date we know of no incidents anywhere in the world in which a recreational tree climber has fallen or gotten hurt.

Like most sports, learning by reading is very difficult. The best way to learn to climb is by taking a hands-on class, TCI’s Basic Tree Climbing Course, or something close to it, taught by a well-trained instructor. If that’s not possible, we suggest you purchase our DVD, "Tree Climbing Basics," which provides all the information you need to start your tree-climbing pursuits.

Learning by doing being the case, our aim here is simply to give you a sense of what recreational tree climbing is -- that is, a definition of the basic techniques and a general description of how it’s done. You may want to browse our photo Galleries to see climbers in action. It will also be helpful for you to take a look at our Gear Rater to become familiar with the different types of equipment that are used.

Basic Tree Climbing Techniques

There are two basic tree climbing techniques: doubled-rope technique (DRT) and single rope technique (SRT). DRT is simpler and safer, making it the preferred method for beginning climbers. DRT is more commonly used in trees that grow up to 100 feet tall: oaks, poplars, maples, and pines, for example. SRT is the more appropriate method for climbing taller trees, like redwoods, spruce, firs, and the other species which can grow to a height of 300 feet or more.