Tree Climbing in the Pacific Northwest

Experience a unique and extraordinary adventure. Through the Pacific Tree Climbing Institute (PTCI) we can arrange a guided tree climbing expedition for you in the magnificent and legendary forests of the Pacific Northwest.

To enjoy this remarkable opportunity you don't need to be an expert climber. Just bring your willingness to learn and your desire to climb. The expert guides at Pacific Tree Climbing Institute will provide you with top-quality equipment and teach you the skills you need to know.

You can choose from Day Trips to Overnight Expeditions. Educational climbs can also be arranged for students.

This is the perfect way to reconnect with nature and become inspired by the beauty of our remaining old growth forests.

For more information contact our Tree Climbing Travel Specialist, Rhonda Snyder or click on this I Want More Information link. Also see the additional links to the right, for more detail on the Pacific Tree Climbing Institute. And check out the Tree Climbing FAQ below.


FAQ

How much experience do I need? Generally speaking a willingness to learn and a desire to climb are most important. PTCI provides top-quality climbing equipment and teach the skills you need to climb.

How physically challenging is it to climb? The answer to that question depends on the individual. If you are healthy, active and of normal weight for your height you are likely to find climbing to be easy, perhaps easier than you thought. If you have spent the last few decades without enough physical activity and carry extra weight you will find it more challenging. If you have any medical conditions that might impair your ability to climb safely we ask that you consult with your personal physician before climbing. I can tell you that I began climbing two years ago at the age of 50, have spent too much time behind a desk and carrying an extra 20+ pounds. I was slow (climbers ascend at their own pace) and tired at the end of the day, but elated with my success! Call us if you have questions about your ability to climb.

What gear do I need? PTCI provides state of the art equipment made specifically for safe, comfortable tree climbing by New Tribe, Petzl and others. In general, we recommend that you dress in clothing appropriate for the weather in long pants, long sleeved shirts and sturdy, comfortable closed-toe shoes.

What training do Pacific Tree Climbing Institute guides have? All PTCI instructors/guides are professional arborists with several years of full-time professional climbing experience. In addition, they have current Wilderness First Responder or first aide and aerial rescue training. Guides are chosen based on their climbing knowledge, excellent communication skills and the ability to anticipate climber's needs.

What is included in a Day Climb? This guided expedition includes a dream-like day in the canopy of an astounding old growth Douglas fir tree of unique beauty located in the Pacific Northwest temperate rain forest. The tree that you will be climbing is specially chosen for your experience, ranging from 250-300 feet tall. As you ascend into the upper reaches of the canopy, you will observe a unique ecosystem that is extraordinarily different than the forest floor below. Some people choose to explore the limb structures of old growth trees and learn about the wild life that inhabits the tree tops. Many like to witness the view of the expansive forests, giving you a remarkable view of the beautiful Cascades. Our climbing sites are carefully chosen, many with the serene sound of running water ever present during your climb. >More Information

What is an Overnight Expedition like? This expedition includes a full day of climbing followed by an evening aloft in a grand old growth Douglas fir tree, ranging from 250-300 feet tall. Towering above the forest floor in our Pacific Northwest temperate rain forest canopy, you will partake in an awe-inspiring, rare event few get to experience in their lifetime.

You will be climbing in a tree of unique beauty and ancient size. High in the tree, there will be a canvas “Treeboats©” waiting for you to rest, relax, stretch and take in the majesty of the canopy in peace. A “Treeboats©” is a heavy-duty canvas hammock, rated to carry thousands of pounds. This is a pleasant destination for your climb, giving you optimal comfort. The Treeboats© are constructed with a 2” thick air mattress providing a comfortable nights’ sleep. When you awake aloft in the breath-taking tree tops, you will be overlooking spectacular, mountainous views forested by old growth Douglas firs. >More Information