The 2025 Tree Climbing Academy was a soaring success—quite literally! Building on last year’s inaugural achievement, this annual academy, held in partnership between Casey Trees, Montgomery Parks, and Bartlett Tree Experts, took place November 3-7 at Wheaton Regional Park and marked another successful year of hands-on training for aspiring tree climbers and those interested in the tree care industry.
Throughout the week, participants received expert instruction in industry best practices from experienced arborists. They not only acquired technical climbing skills, but also gained a deeper appreciation for urban forestry and safety standards essential to caring for our trees.
A Week of Adventure and Learning
Each morning, participants suited up and learned the ropes: starting with essential techniques such as setting lines, mastering knots, and developing the confidence to climb high into the tree canopy.
Under the guidance of seasoned professionals, attendees climbed trees of varying sizes, learning about the ecological impact of canopy health, making every lesson a step toward building a knowledgeable, safety-conscious workforce for our region’s urban forests.
The Final Challenge
On the final day of the academy, participants were put to the test in a culminating tree-climbing trial. Four cowbells were set at different heights and positions in a Tuliptree that soared over 100 feet tall, challenging climbers to reach as many as possible within a 15-minute window. Some bells required climbers to stretch their skills by ascending higher into the tree’s crown or walking out along the branches. Participants also had to swing to a bag full of Osage oranges, grab one, and aim for a marked drop zone on the ground.
This well-rounded challenge drew on everything learned throughout the week: tying reliable knots, using different climbing techniques, adhering to safety protocols, and persevering through physical and mental challenges. Cheers from peers and instructors filled the air, giving each climber an extra boost as they made their way through the course.
Want to see what the final trial looks like from a climber’s point of view? One of our instructors from Barlett Tree Experts completed the challenge to give us all a firsthand experience. See the video below:
Looking Forward
This unique partnership and collaboration between Casey Trees, Montgomery Parks, and Bartlett Tree Experts reflects our shared commitment to expanding access to the tree care industry and nurturing the talent pipeline for the next generation of professional arborists. The academy isn’t just about climbing trees—it’s a stepping stone for personal growth, environmental stewardship, and community resilience.
Congratulations to the graduates of the 2025 Tree Climbing Academy for scaling new heights and rooting themselves firmly in the urban forestry community!
