Tree climbing?
This probably isn’t the tree climbing you’re thinking of. With the help of our trained facilitators, you’ll get up in the trees like never before. Using the same professional equipment that arborists and scientists use when they ascend into the treetops, our highly trained and experienced facilitators will teach you everything you need to know to get harnessed up, in the saddle, and headed toward the treetops. Once you’re at a height that’s comfortable for you, you’ll be free to swing, spin, bounce, walk the branches, or just hang out in a tree. It’s your adventure!
Recreational tree climbing is safe, unique, and most importantly, FUN. In its over 30 years as an organized activity, more than 350,000 people have taken part. Now it’s your turn!
Okay, that does sound cool. But why tree climbing?
Experience matters.
As the first nature center in Wisconsin to offer recreational tree climbing, Riveredge’s program offers a unique blend of experience and innovation that no one else can match. Our dedicated facilitators (who just so happen to be professional educators too!) all have a few things in common: extensive training, a personal love of tree climbing, and the Riveredge passion for making outdoor adventure and exploration something that is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
With almost 50 years of experience as a leader in nonprofit environmental education, we know just what it takes to make programs fun, safe, affordable and, ultimately, meaningful. And tree climbing is just the tip of the iceberg- when you join the Riveredge family, you’re joining a family that has adventure in its blood.
Alright, you've convinced me! Now when can I get in the trees?
We’ve got tree climbing opportunities for climbers of every age! Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a group, we can work with you to get you up in trees. If you're looking for something pre-planned, why not join one our awesome climbing clubs (meet monthly for climbing, community, and a darn good climb) or just simply sign up for one of our open climbs to experience the rush and relaxation with no commitment!
Can we schedule our own climb with you? Can you come to us?
Yes all around! Whether you're looking for an awesome team building training for your staff, the birthday party of a lifetime, or a totally unique addition to your offsite event or organization, we will work with you to organize your perfect climb! Check out some of the options below, or contact Steff Merten, our Adventure Education Manager, at 262-375-2715 or smerten@riveredge.us, to chat about what you're looking for.
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The tree climbing movement is catching on! Click their logos below to check out the great coverage from some of the region's top news outlets for a better idea of how tree climbing works and why we do it!
I've just got a fewww questions.
Absolutely! Safety is our biggest focus. Facilitators at Riveredge have been trained by the Global Organization of Tree Climbing approved organization Tree Climbing Colorado and follow only approved practices and procedures for institutionalized climbing.
Tree climbing has almost 30 years as an organized activity with more than 350,000 climbs conducted worldwide. Prior to climbing, the tree’s setting, root system, bark, trunk, structure, and crown are appraised to assess overall health and appropriateness for climbing activity. Lines are placed only over live limbs that are overly sufficient to support climbing activity. Lines are weight-checked and bounce-tested prior to climbing. Only ANSI-compliant Ness recreational tree climbing saddles and professional arborist rope, along with buckeled Petzl Elios-class helmets are used. Rock climbing saddles and rope do not meet our safety protocols, and are not used. All equipment is inspected before and after each climbing session. By using proper techniques and equipment, and by following all safety procedures, the risk of being off the ground is minimized.
Tree climbing is an outdoor experience so prepare as well as you can for conditions the day of your climb. We recommend sunscreen and bug spray, hair ties for shoulder length or longer hair, drinks and snacks, and a camera. We’ll provide the fun!
Clothing wise, comfortable is best! We recommend long pants and a t-shirt to help protect skin from rough bark. Closed toe shoes are required and shoes with a sturdy sole are also recommended. In cooler weather, please dress in layers. If you start getting warm, you can start shedding them!
*2021 Covid Requirement*
This year due to shared equipment and the difficulty of sanitizing equipment, all climbers will be required to wear a mask and gloves while they climb. The best gloves are rubber palmed garden gloves but baseball, football, or golf gloves will work as well as long as they have full fingers and a snug fit.
No need to bodybuild before coming out! While climbing is great exercise and will certainly help make you stronger, we've had climbers of all ages and fitness levels, and we'll teach you everything you need to know to get up in the trees!
Well, duh!
Any other questions?
There's nothing we love more than talking about tree climbing! Please don't hesitate to give our Adventure Education Manager, Steff Merten, a call at 262-375-2715 or smerten@riveredge.us. We hope to see you in the trees very soon!
