The Best Ways To Tie A Hammock Around A Tree
No matter what season, a camping hammock is ready to be in full swing! Hanging a hammock outdoors is sure to lift your spirits and quicken a sense of adventure.
Whether you plan on hanging around in your backyard, or on top of a mountain, it is essential that you know the best way to hang a hammock.
How To Tie A Hammock Around A Tree
Different suspension methods have been used over the years, and as we have gained more knowledge about what works and what doesn’t.
We have applied that knowledge to developing the best way to get a great hang.
Using Hardware
There are several hardware suspensions that you can use when setting up a hammock for camping which includes lengths of chain, j-hook wall anchors and large s-hooks.
These methods, such as screwing an anchor directly into the tree greatly limit your mobility as you are tethered to one particular set of trees.
While your ability to be mobile might be a consideration, the far greater consideration is that this will damage the trees that you use them on.
Using A Rope
However, you choose to tie your hammock to a tree, using a rope or corded nylon can cause irreparable damage to the tree.
At Everest Active Gear, we believe in leaving no trace whenever possible. Working with nature, not against nature is part of the thought process whenever and wherever you are in the out of doors.
For many years, the traditional way of hanging a hammock was to use a rope. At that time, it made sense and was a handy and favored way to make a secure connection.
However, with knowledge comes responsibility. When you know better, you do better.
We now know better than to use an uncovered rope or nylon cord around a tree.
Ropes cause friction that damages the bark on a tree. Bark performs a function for the tree much like your skin does for your body.
Bark prevents disease and insects from getting into the tree itself. Besides protecting a tree, there is a vascular system that lies beneath the bark. This system carries nutrients and moisture from the roots to the branches and leaves.
Ropes can constrict the tree and kill it. Ropes can also embed themselves into the bark of a tree.
An uncovered rope can rub through the bark of a tree. Once a tree has sustained a friction rub that covers over 50% of the circumference of the tree, the tree will not survive.
It is as easy as putting a covering over a rope that prevents the rope from making direct contact with the tree.
If you are hanging a hammock in your own backyard, you could use an old garden hose and cut the appropriate length. Just thread the rope through the hose.
When tying to the tree, just make sure that the covered part of the rope is what lies against the tree.
If you choose to use a rope when you are hammock camping, there are friction guards that can be purchased for rope or nylon cord and can help to not damage the bark on a tree.
Using Tree Straps
Using straps to hang your hammock is the best-recommended suspension method to use on trees.
These straps are made from flat webbing and do not cause bark abrasion.
If you are hanging a hammock in your backyard, you can adjust the straps as the tree grows.
Hammock straps are lightweight and extremely strong and durable. With a strap, you don’t need to know how to tie a knot and will not stretch.
Using straps will take less than two minutes to have your hammock secured between two trees and you take a break in the great outdoors!
FAQs
Do hammocks hurt the trees?
Yes, when the suspension system is not tree-friendly or not set up correctly, hammocks can hurt trees. It is best to practice the "Leave No Trace" camping even if you are setting it up in your backyard.
Do hammocks need anchor points?
Anchor points are a vital part of the suspension system. It is where you will securely fasten your hammock. You can use a variety of suspension systems, including ropes and webbing straps.
What is a tree’s bark?
The visible tissue of the tree is called the bark. Commonly tree barks are unique in structure and appearance; in fact, most trees can be identified by the characteristics of their bark.
Do hammock straps leave marks on trees?
Yes, when the suspension system is not tree-friendly or not set up correctly, hammocks can leave a mark or two on trees. Hammock straps made out of soft webbing minimizes girdling and damage to the bark and cambium layer.
What types of trees can be used for hammocks?
Palm, maple, oak, and beech trees are ideal in setting up your hammock. Avoid trees with softwood, such as fruit trees and evergreens, and look out for any signs of disease.