Elevated Stand Types

Hang-On Stands

These simple stands must be hauled into place and secured to the tree with belts or chains. They require separate climbing aids such as segmented ladders or climbing sticks. Attach the climbing aid to the tree so that you can step down onto the center of the platform.

Hang-on stand

Ladder Stands

These stands provide a platform 10 to 20 feet above the ground and have a built-in ladder. Three to five people are needed to erect or take down a ladder stand safely. When setting up the stand, make sure the ground is level. Then lean the stand against the tree and chain or strap it into place.

Climbing Stands

These stands are designed for trees with straight trunks and consist of two sections. A hunter “walks” the stand up a tree by moving the top section with the hands and the bottom section with the feet. Always keep the two sections of the stand connected with a tether. While on the ground, adjust the stand to allow for the tapering of the tree that occurs as you go up.

Climbing stand

Tripods, Quadpods, or Tower Stands (Free-Standing)

These stands are similar to a ladder tree stand but are free-standing. Some resemble one or two chairs atop stilts. Some designs are enclosed, box-like platforms.