Climb a Tree

Check the weather. Always check the weather before you start. Never climb during a thunderstorm, in strong wind or wet conditions that can be very dangerous or make branches too slippery. You can climb trees in any season though freezing temperatures can make wood brittle.

Dress Appropriately. Wear clothes that are loose-fitting so you can stretch and move freely, but not so baggy they could get caught on something.

Find the right tree. Look for a healthy tree that is not leaning. Check for signs of rot or fungus at the roots or on the tree, roots that are separating from the ground, or large cracks or splits in the tree’s trunk or bark. Some trees are better than others for climbing! Hardwood trees like sycamores, oaks, or maples will have sturdier branches.

Look for signs of danger around your tree. With an adult look for things like power lines, fences, or structures that could make the area unsafe. They can also help you identify and avoid trees with poison ivy, wasp or beehives, ants, and wildlife that you wouldn’t want to disturb.

Start low. Find a tree with low, sturdy branches and use those as a starting point for your climb. You may need to jump a little or use your feet to push off the trunk to reach the first branch. Once you grab that first branch, use your legs so that you can get on top of the branch. Feel free to ask for a boost from an adult too!

Take your time! Take time finding the next sturdy branch to grab and climb up to. You want to plan and focus on each move. Be brave and ambitious, but don’t climb too high. This is your adventure and you want to make sure it’s safe and you feel comfortable.

Find your spot. Find a comfortable spot where you can sit and enjoy the view. What do you notice outside that you’ve never seen before? Does your yard or park look totally different from up high?

Remember your way up. You will want to use that same way in reverse to get back down.