Lopez Island: Old-Growth Tree Canopy Climbing Adventure

Summary

Climb rare old-growth trees on Lopez Island for wild views

You’ll learn how to climb ancient trees on Lopez Island using special gear (no experience needed), guided by locals who know every branch and patch of moss. Feel your heart race as you rise above the canopy, catch glimpses of ocean and mountains, and share laughs—and maybe nerves—with your small group. It’s not about conquering heights but seeing forests differently.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re really going to trust that rope?” That’s what I blurted out when our guide, Ben, handed me the harness on Lopez Island. He just grinned and showed us how the ascenders worked—honestly, it looked like something out of a climbing movie. The forest was still damp from last night’s rain, so everything smelled green and earthy, almost sharp. There were only five of us, swapping nervous jokes while we learned the basics under these massive Douglas firs. I kept thinking: I’ve walked through forests my whole life, but never looked up this way.

The first few pulls with the ascender felt awkward—like doing squats in slow motion, except you’re dangling off a tree. My hands got sticky with sap and dirt right away. Ben pointed out some lichen patches and told us how these old-growth trees are older than any building back home; he even knew which ones had eagles nesting up top (we didn’t see one, but I swear I heard wings overhead). At about 80 feet up, the wind changed—suddenly it was quiet except for creaking branches and someone below laughing at my “tree hugger” attempt to rest against the bark.

I didn’t expect to feel so… small? But also weirdly connected. You can see the ocean glinting through gaps in the canopy if you look sideways—not a postcard view, just real and kind of wild. We climbed two trees that day (some folks did three), each one different in texture and shape. There was this moment near the top when Ben just let us sit there—no talking, just breathing in that cold air above everything else. Even now, sometimes when I smell pine sap on my jacket, I remember that silence.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tree canopy climbing experience

• Receive climbing equipment
• Attend safety talk
• Learn to use climbing gear
• Climb 1 to 4 tall trees
• Explore old-growth tree ecology
• Enjoy views of mountains and ocean

Top questions

How high do you climb during the Lopez Island tree canopy climbing?

You can climb between 100 and 200 feet high on Lopez Island trees depending on your ability and comfort level.

Is previous climbing experience required for this activity?

No experience is necessary; all instructions and equipment are provided before you start climbing.

What kind of trees will we be climbing?

You’ll climb a mix of rare old-growth Douglas firs and second-growth trees on Lopez Island.

How many people are in each group?

Groups are small—up to six people per session for safety and personal attention.

What should I wear for tree canopy climbing on Lopez Island?

Wear athletic clothes with long pants covering your ankles and sturdy shoes; expect to get dirty.

Is lunch included in the tour?

No lunch is included; only equipment, guidance, and environmental management charges are covered.

Is this activity suitable for kids?

Yes, children aged 8 years or older can participate if they meet basic fitness requirements.

What happens if there’s bad weather?

If conditions are unsafe due to severe rain or high winds, you’ll be offered a new date or full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes all professional climbing gear, expert instruction from a local guide who knows these woods inside out, plus an environmental management fee supporting forest protection—just bring yourself (and maybe a change of clothes) before heading back down to earth again.