Rope Techniques for Arborists

Arborists seek adventure in the canopies of trees. Recreational and professional climbers use similar techniques to reach their lofty perch. Each tree climbing technique is designed to ensure a climber's safety. However, experienced climbers use specific techniques for speed and efficiency. In the case of tree removal services, a climber must use a technique that allows him to work with his hands.

  1. Single-Rope Technique

    • Single-rope technique is used for fast ascents up large trees. The technique is often employed by experienced arborists and rescue crews. In fact, arborists with prior expertise in mountaineering, caving and rock climbing introduced the technique to the tree climbing world. A tool called a cammed ascender attaches to an anchored rope and assists in hoisting the climber's weight up the trunk of the tree. The technique accesses the canopy of a tree, but is not efficient in traversing branches within the canopy.

    Double-Rope Technique

    • The double-rope technique is preferred by beginning climbers and any climber wishing to move around a tree's canopy. A rope is thrown over a branch. A thin throw rope is attached to the free end of the anchor rope. The two ends of rope attach to a climbing saddle, a padded harness that fits around a climber's hips. The climber uses a knot called Blake's hitch to secure herself to the ropes. The same knot is used in rock climbing and caving, but in these disciplines it is known as a prusik knot. The climber uses this pulling system of ropes to hoist herself up to the tree canopy. When a climber wants to ascend past the branch where the rope is secured, she tosses the throw rope to a higher branch and resecures the pulley system.

    Three-Point System

    • The three-point system is used with professional tree removal services and experienced climbers. It includes an extra point of contact with the tree so an arborist is anchored at three points, hence the name. The system requires the climber to stay near the trunk, but allows a degree of freedom in the arms. A flip line is wrapped around the tree and attached to either side of the climber at hip level. The flip line, in combination with spiked boots, allow the climber to plant his feet into the trunk and let his arms hang free. The technique is useful in tree removal, but the recreational arborist risks damaging a tree's bark.

    Tree Climbing Gear

    • The gear used to climb trees resembles spelunking and mountaineering gear. Safety always comes first. Helmets are a must, as well as gloves to protect the hands from rope burn and assist the climber's grip. Sturdy climbing ropes are essential. A quality climbing rope bears heavy weight and supplies a little give to prevent breaks. Padded harnesses attach to anchor ropes and act as a safety should a climber fall. Specialty gear, such as the cammed ascender used in single-rope technique, is often used in climbs.