When was the last time you climbed a tree?

Join Cultivara Tree Tours for a unique guided tree climbing experience that takes you high into the canopy of a towering Grand fir tree in Vancouver’s UBC Botanical Garden. Using harnesses, fixed ropes, and typical arborist and rope access technician equipment, you’ll ascend up to 50 meters into the upper canopy for breathtaking views, a sense of vertical adventure, and a fresh perspective on trees and our forests.

This 2–3 hour expedition is ideal for adventurous adults or children ages 10+ with some fitness and coordination. No prior climbing experience is needed—just an excitement to try something new.

While this tour should be considered self-powered and has an element of physical challenge, Cultivara does have a battery-powered ascender which can assist climbers if needed during their ascent. Small-sized groups allows for flexibility in setting group pace and tour content, ensuring you have a rewarding experience in the treetops.

Details:

• Date: Sunday May 25
• Tour Start Time: 10:15 am; 1:30pm (Both tours open for BCMC Members, and guests of Members)
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Location: UBC Botanical Garden (6804 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC)
• Group Size: 1-4 participants/tour
• Fitness Level: Moderate, with coordination to handle climbing equipment and technique
• Pricing
• • Our flexible, Experience-Based pricing allows you to set the price of your tour.  First, pay the recommended price. After your tour, you have the freedom to easily adjust your payment – up or down – based on your experience and budget.  No risk, and no expectations. We believe everyone should have the chance to experience the wonder of tree climbing—regardless of financial means.
  • Canopy Expedition Recommended Price: $120
• Gear and Guide: All climbing and safety equipment is included, along with a professional and certified guide. Signing of a liability waiver is required.

Garden admission is not included in the recommended tour price and must be purchased separately online or easily at the front gate ($11/person; $26.5/family). A visit to the Garden pairs perfectly with your tree climbing adventure, offering beautiful walking trails, diverse ecosystems, and world-class plant ollections that deepen your appreciation for the forest from the ground up.

This guided tour will not:

• Teach you the skills required to climb trees independently, or provide formal training or instruction. Recreational tree climbing can be dangerous without the proper experience and understanding of the equipment and hazards involved.

This guided tour will:

• Show you more about the equipment used in arboriculture and rope access work, and basic operation of equipment to safely ascend and descend a fixed line under supervision.
• Teach you more about trees, with the aim of inspiring greater care and conservation of our forests.
• Provide a totally unique and unforgettable experience. It doesn’t get much more ‘BC’ than climbing tall trees with ocean views..    

Tour Itinerary:

Welcome and Introduction, Gear Orientation

– Brief welcome and introduction to the tour; introduction to the forest and tree you will be exploring

– Equipment fitting and safety talk

– Overview of climbing techniques, including significant time for practice and guide feedback prior to climbing to height

Tree Climbing

– Group begins climb to height, with each participant climbing at their own pace, with guidance from instructor and rest stops as needed

– Short breaks at different points for photo ops and discussion

– Along the way, the guide shares insights into the tree’s biology and it’s role in the ecosystem

Enjoy the Upper Canopy

– Reach the highest branches for a stunning aerial view of the nearby ocean and surrounding forest

– Hang out in the tree, enjoy the surroundings, and engage in further discussions with the guide about the forest and local wildlife

Descent and Wrap-up

– Safely descend with guidance from the instructor

– Conclude the tour with a debrief and a final reflection on the experience

Weather & Cancellation Policy:

• This tour runs in light rain or shine. If unsafe climbing conditions are anticipated (heavy rain, heavy wind, storms, etc.), participants will be contacted in advance and offered to reschedule or a full refund.
• Cancellations can be made for a full refund up to 7 days before tour start time. Tours can be rescheduled without penalty up to 72 hours before tour start time, subject to wider tour availability.

How to Book:

·         Click ‘Join this trip’ on the left hand side of the page. You will be added to the Waiting List. Additional guests under your name can be added as well - see trip screening questions. 

·         Payment links will be sent to the email address of participants in order of registration. Once payment is received, participants will be added to the confirmed list.

For additional information, tour photos, or FAQs, please visit our website at cultivara.ca 

Hope to see you in the Canopy soon!

Cultivara Tree Tours