Take a bough: Climbing takes relationship with B.C.’s trees to the next level

Climbing trees, once considered a childhood pastime, is now gaining popularity among adults in British Columbia as a way to forge a deeper connection with nature. Guided tours have taken over 1,000 individuals to heights of up to 50 metres above ground level in the University of British Columbia’s Botanical Garden. As the world around them falls away, participants are greeted by the fresh scent of the forest and the soft patter of tiny flakes of bark.

Tom Zadorsky, a certified arborist and tree-climbing guide, believes that this unique experience fosters an intimate relationship with trees. He recounts stories of clients weeping in awe upon seeing the forest from above, including a 92-year-old volunteer who had dedicated her life to caring for the garden. The tours also celebrate special occasions, such as a grandmother's 80th birthday and sunset over the Salish Sea.

The tours are conducted by climbing manually or using a battery-powered lift, and the guide aims to educate participants about the dynamic nature of forests, especially in light of the increasing prevalence of wildfires. UBC Botanical Garden director Dee Ann Benard emphasizes the importance of forest literacy in decision-making for wildfire prevention, conservation, management, and recovery. The garden boasts some old-growth trees, 600 to 800 years old, which were spared during logging due to their imperfections.

Tree-climbing can be enjoyed by anyone, not just through guided tours. Steve Gosselin, an engineer and father of three from Kelowna, B.C., climbed a 40-metre-tall Sequoia in the heart of Vancouver, describing the experience as unique and peaceful. Urban tree climbing, he says, offers a different perspective compared to traditional hiking or rock climbing. Zadorsky hopes that those who climb trees will leave with a new perspective on the natural world.