If you or someone you know wants to experience climbing trees safely we're here to make that happen! There are many options depending on your experience with tree climbing and what type of instruction you are looking for.
Our regular public group climbs are perfect for new climbers from 6 - 96 years old. You can give climbing a try after a few pointers from an experienced facilitator. You'll be 30 or 40 feet high before you know it! All the gear is provided -- just bring a camera and a friend.
Our regular public group climbs are perfect for new climbers from 6 - 96 years old. You can give climbing a try after a few pointers from an experienced facilitator. You'll be 30 or 40 feet high before you know it! All the gear is provided -- just bring a camera and a friend.
How difficult is it? Although no experience is necessary to climb, a basic level of physical fitness is important. If you can do 5 deep squats in a row, 5 complete situps in a row, and raise your hands above your head repeatedly, then you will likely have the strength and flexibility to be able to climb. It actually doesn't take that much effort to climb, but folks who are carrying 30 extra pounds or more may struggle significantly.
Private tree climbing experiences and birthday party climbs are also available at the Schönwald Farm in Orange County. An hour long private climb experience is $150 whether there is 1 climber or up to 6. Private climbs make for an unforgettable birthday present for a child or an adult! If you have between 7 and 12 climbers or you would just like more time in the tree to practice climbing different routes then maybe a 2-hour private climb is right for you. A 2-hour private climb for up to 12 climbers is $275 and a 3 hour private climb for up to 18 climbers is $400. Call 919.928.4230 or email for additional options tailored to your needs.
Other attractions your group can enjoy while you are at Schönwald include a 250 foot zipline, 4 giant tree swings, a 40-person event tent with picnic tables, nature trails crisscrossing our 8 acres of hardwood forest, a giant seesaw, horseshoe toss, lots of yard games, and a trampoline! Check out the video tour below to see all there is to do at Schönwald!
Half day or full day private instruction is perfect for those who want to learn new skills under the tutelage and supervision of an expert climber. You may bring your own gear (subject to safety check) or use our gear. All private lessons take place at Schönwald. The general skill progression for recreational/research/arboriculture tree climbing is outlined below.
- Tree selection and identifying potential hazards
- Basic tree climbing gear - detailed overview and considerations
- Getting your climbing line into the tree
- Safety in the tree
- Traditional Doubled Rope Technique (DRT) climbing. Knots, ascending, and descending
- Advanced tree climbing gear - detailed overview and considerations
- Multi-pitch climbing and lanyard positioning
- Split tails and closed tail DRT climbing
- Single Rope Technique (SRT) climbing. Tie offs, RADS (Rapid Ascent and Descent System - aka Yo-yo), Rope Wrench System, others
- Limb walking, redirects, tree-to-tree traversing, and peripheral canopy access
Private climbing instruction can take place in one of our trees, or on your own land, if safe and appropriate options exist. A 3-hour private lesson for one person is $180. You can invite 1 or 2 friends for an additional cost of $90 per person. Please call 919-928-4230 or email to schedule your next lesson.
