Climbing Into Oregon’s Old-Growth Canopy

It’s probably safe to wager that most people reading this story retired from the act of climbing trees long ago. That said, there’s a unique outfitter in Oregon that might be able to coax a few of you out of retirement. They did me.

Leo Rosen-Fischer fell in love with climbing at a young age and would eventually wind up as the leader of a tree-climbing outfitter in Washington state. When he moved to Oregon, Silver Falls State Park stuck out as a prime location to start a new venture. And it wasn’t the waterfalls that did it for him. It was the old-growth forest.

Less than four percent of the United States’ original forests remain in existence. Yet old-growth forests play a vital role in the health of the planet. They provide habitat for numerous species of animals and plants, supporting the biodiversity that is critically important for adapting to environmental and climate changes. And getting people literally up close and personal with that type of forest is one way of getting them to understand and appreciate it more.

Rosen-Fischer started planning his new venture in 2019 and, two years later, launched Tree Climbing at Silver Falls. It is currently the only tour operator in the United States with government-permitted access to guide participants up some of the largest and rarest trees in the region, within Oregon State Parks. Today, the outfitter leads a variety of climbs, including half-day outings, sunset excursions, and even overnight trips.

Each climb starts with training and the chance to get familiar with the equipment. Then participants ascend 200 to 300 feet, reaching an apex high in the forest canopy but safely below the treetops. However, each group’s guide won’t take anyone higher than they feel comfortable going.

The introductory half-day tree climb lasts three to four hours, includes an overview of basic skills, and centers around an ascent into the forest canopy. This is the experience I chose, despite my semi-paralyzing fear of heights. But as a pre-existing fan of old-growth forests, it was an opportunity I felt the need to at least attempt. And I couldn’t be happier that I did. After some acclimatizing and very slow ascending, I reached the top and may or may not have giggled like a child at the opportunity to commune with the canopy.

The Sunset Climb allows guests to take in the close of day from a Douglas fir penthouse. It lasts five to six hours, includes a three-mile out-and-back hike, and covers all the skills needed to make the ascent. For an additional fee, climbers can purchase a sunset dinner, drone video, or other add-ons.

You can also take things to the next level in the overnight form of tree camping. Climb anywhere from 30 to 280 feet, depending on your personal tolerance for terror, and spend the night in a hammock or tree tent suspended from an old-growth tree. Gear and instructions are provided, and basic meals are available for an additional fee. They are the only destination in the U.S. offering daily tree camping in old-growth trees.

Accessibility and inclusivity are also of paramount importance for the outfitter, welcoming wheelchair users and climbers with mobility disabilities. Tree Climbing at Silver Falls employs battery-powered and remote-controlled adaptive equipment for any climber, so there’s no real weight limit.

No matter your experience level, apprehensions or disability, the hope is that you find something to love about our old-growth forests. Which, speaking from experience, is all but guaranteed. All you need to do is come out of retirement.

Learn more at treeclimbingatsilverfalls.com.

To plan your trip, visit travelsalem.com.