Tree climbers from around the world are gathering just south of Cadillac to network and, well, climb trees. The tree climbing "rendezvous" will take place Sept. 20-24 at the Center Lake Bible Camp in Tustin.
Tree climbing is a recreational activity that often involves ropes and a harness to ascend into a forest.
"Mostly anyone can do it — if you can stand up out of a soft couch, you can pretty much do this," said Harv Teitelbaum, with the Global Organization of Tree Climbers, which sets guidelines for safe climbing and training.
Teitelbaum, who has been scaling trees for the last couple decades, said tree climbing inherently promotes an environmental mindset.
"It connects you to this resource that we all have, which is our forests, and it's fun, something the whole family can do," Teitelbaum said. "It also increases the constituency of of people who care about trees and forests."
Teitelbaum said everyone — regardless of ability or skill level — is welcome to participate. While tree climbing requires some physical exertion, systems can provide some strength assistance.
"For me, it just puts life in perspective when you get up in what we call 'tree time,'" Teitelbaum said. "It's been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. It gives you a great sense of accomplishment."
Past GOTC gatherings have drawn crowds of around 50 to 80 people, and this is the event's first time in Michigan. The rendevous will also feature some workshops on wildlife photography and local ecology and a free public tree climbing event that has yet to be scheduled.
