Climb Trees. Build Friendships. Embrace Community.
Women’s ArbCamp is where climbers grow – together.
Our Story
Women’s ArbCamp began in 2016 just outside Birmingham, UK, when a small group of women arborists gathered to climb, learn, and connect.
The overwhelmingly positive response to that first weekend of shared passion turned it into an annual tradition and a growing international community.
Today, Women’s ArbCamp (WAC) is an inclusive space for people who love trees. Centring the experiences of women, trans, and non-binary climbers, WAC welcomes everyone who supports an empowering, respectful, and inclusive approach to arboriculture. Whether you’re brand new to climbing or a seasoned arborist, you’ll find a place here.
Each year, participants travel from across Europe and beyond to take part in a weekend filled with trees, ropes, learning, and friendship.
Whether you’re new to tree climbing or have years of experience, you’re welcome at WAC.
Why We Exist
We believe in sharing knowledge, celebrating diverse experiences, and supporting each other’s growth — in the canopy, in our careers, and in our communities.
How WAC stands out:
Designed for inclusion — created specifically for women, trans, and non-binary climbers
Friendships across borders — climbers join from all over Europe and beyond
Relaxed and welcoming — climb at your own pace, or just hang out and connect
Open to all experience levels — from complete beginners to seasoned pros
Flexible learning — join peer-led workshops on what you want, when you want
Who it’s for:
Arborists and forestry workers
Work in the canopy or care for trees on the ground? You’re in the right place. Connect with peers and recharge your passion for trees.
Aspiring tree climbers
New to climbing? Whether you’re curious or just getting started, we’ll meet you where you are.
Students, educators, and researchers
From urban forestry to arboricultural science, we welcome anyone eager to learn, teach, or explore the tree world.
Recreational climbers and curious explorers
You don’t need a job title to love trees. Come climb, discover, and be part of the canopy community.
Empowering Women, Trans, and Non-Binary Climbers — Growing Arboriculture, Together
WAC Timeline: A Growing Community in Trees
From a small UK gathering to an international network—see how WAC has grown.
2016
2016 – United Kingdom
The very first Women’s ArbCamp was held at Newnham Paddox, just north of Birmingham. 18 participants from 7 countries came together to climb, connect, and build something new. The event set the tone: inclusive, empowering, and rooted in community.
2017
2017 – United Kingdom
WAC returned to Newnham Paddox for its second edition, welcoming new faces and deepening its sense of international community.
2018
2018 – Sweden
Hosted in Kungsbacka, this was WAC’s first event outside the UK. With over 30 participants from across Europe and North America, it marked a significant step toward becoming a pan-European initiative.
2019
2019 – Finland
Held in Ruissalo, Turku, WAC 2019 welcomed 50 participants from 12 countries across 3 continents. Workshops covered climbing systems, chainsaw maintenance, gear inspection, night climbing, saunas, and more.
2020
2020 – Taiwan
The first WACT – Women’s ArbCamp Taiwan was held in collaboration with local arborists, marking WAC’s debut outside Europe and reinforcing its global spirit.
2021
2021 – Sweden
WAC was hosted at Ekolsund Castle, Sweden. Set in a historic estate, it offered a serene setting for hands-on workshops and a thoughtful reconnection after the pandemic break.
2022
2022 – Sweden
Held in southern Sweden, this edition brought together over 30 participants from Sweden, Norway, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Denmark, and Taiwan. Workshops included tree rescue, first aid, ergonomics, and arboriculture during pregnancy.
2023
2023 – Belgium
Held in Baardegem, WAC 2023 gathered participants from Sweden, Norway, Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Latvia, the Czech Republic, and the United States. Highlights included workshops on rope splicing, chainsaw safety, horse-assisted forestry, and advanced climbing techniques.
2024
2024 – [Postponed]
Due to personal medical reasons within the organising team, WAC took a pause this year. The community remained strong online, and planning resumed for 2025.