Best Hunting Tree Stands of 2026
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Hunting tree stands are essential for any serious hunter. They provide a vantage point to spot game from a distance, and also keep the hunter out of sight and smell of their prey. There are a variety of hunting tree stands available, such as ladder stands, hang-on stands, and climbing stands. Ladder stands are perfect for hunters who want a more permanent setup, while hang-on stands are lightweight and easy to move. Climbing stands are ideal for hunters who need to move quickly and quietly to different locations. Whatever your preference, investing in a quality hunting tree stand can greatly improve your chances of a successful hunt.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
#TOP 1
9.9
#TOP 2
9.8
#TOP 3
9.6
Top 10 Hunting Tree Stands
BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Ladder Whitetail Deer Elk Mule Above Hunting Outdoors Tree Stand
The BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Ladder Whitetail Deer Elk Mule Above Hunting Outdoors Tree Stand is a spacious and comfortable ladder with an 18'6" height. It comes with a foot platform measuring 23.5" wide x 29" deep, and a seat measuring 23" wide x 18" deep, making it a perfect option for modern hunters. The Flex-Tek seat ensures ultimate comfort, while the padded, flip-up shooting rail and deep and wide foot platform provide convenience. With a weight of 61 Lbs., it can handle one person with an overall weight rating of 350 Lbs., and is equipped with a Full-Body Fall Arrest System for safety.
BIG GAME 17-Foot Ladder Tree Stand
The BIG GAME Ladder Tree Stand offers a reliable and comfortable hunting experience. Its extra-tall 17-foot height allows you to get a better vantage point for spotting deer, while the sturdy ratchet and stabilizer straps keep the stand firmly in place on trees at least 9 inches thick. The Flex-Tek seat with cushioned armrests and backrest ensures you stay comfortable during long waits, and the flip-up shooting rail and footrest provide extra support and stability for accurate shots. Built with heavy-duty steel, this stand supports up to 300 pounds but remains lightweight enough to carry easily. Assembly is simple with three single rail ladder sections, making your setup quick and hassle-free.
Sebnux Aluminum Hang On Tree Stand
The Sebnux Aluminum Tree Stand is designed to make your deer hunting experience easier and more comfortable. Its lightweight aluminum build lets you carry it around effortlessly, perfect for mobile hunters. The extra-large platform gives you plenty of space to stand steadily and hunt with confidence. You can adjust both the seat and platform to fit leaning trees, helping you stay balanced and secure no matter the terrain. Plus, the special tooth design grips the tree firmly while protecting the bark, so you can set up without harming the environment. This stand is built to keep you steady and comfortable during your hunt.
Summit Treestands 81120 Viper SD Climbing Treestand
The Summit Treestands 81120 Viper SD Climbing Treestand is a popular choice for hunters due to its strong and lightweight aluminum construction, making it easy to transport and climb. You can sit comfortably for hours on the suspended foam-padded seat with cushioned backrest and padded armrests. Additionally, it is covered by a 5-year limited warranty.
BIG GAME 16' 2-Person Ladder Tree Stand
The BIG GAME Ladder Tree Stand is designed to enhance your hunting experience by providing a secure and comfortable spot high up in the tree. It fits trees with a minimum 9-inch diameter, giving you a good vantage point to keep an eye on your target. The seat is shaped to fit your legs and back, with padded armrests, so you can stay comfortable during long waits. Made from strong steel, the platform supports up to 600 pounds, ensuring safety and stability. You’ll also appreciate the built-in safety harness and a padded shooting rail that flips up for easy use, keeping you safe and steady while aiming.
Summit Treestands Viper Steel Climbing Treestand
The Summit Treestands Viper Steel Climbing Treestand is a modern version of the classic Viper hunting tree stand in a steel construction. It features the Quick Draw cable retention system and RapidClimb Stirrups which provide convenience and safety for the user. The powder-coated steel finish not only ensures rust protection but also helps to conceal the user.
Hawk Big Denali 18ft Hunting Tree Stand
Elevated hunting is made safe and comfortable with the Hawk Big Denali 18ft Hunting Tree Stand. It can hold up to 500 pounds and has two full MeshComfort Seats with padded armrests and contoured backrests. The stand also features dual welded kick-out footrests that double as grab handles, a flip-back padded shooting rail, a ratcheting tree strap, and bolted ladder sections. The large oval tubing, textured powder coat, and oversized grip mesh platform provide stability and safety. The Safe-Tread steps make climbing easy and safe. The stand is perfect for archery hunting clearance and gun rest.
Muddy MLS1550 Skybox Deluxe Hunting Ladder Tree Stand
The Muddy MLS1550 Skybox Deluxe Hunting Ladder Tree Stand is perfect for your next hunting trip, letting you sit 20 feet above your prey to stay undetected. This ladder stand is designed for one person and can support up to 350 pounds of weight with a spacious 22-inch wide and 17-inch deep Flex-Tek seat. Additionally, it comes with a 4-point safety harness, adjustable padded shooting rail, and flip-back footrest for ultimate comfort.
Summit Treestands Ledge XT Tree Stand
The Summit Ledge XT Stand is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring a foldable textilene seat and backrest that makes long hours in the field much more enjoyable. Its dual post design maximizes foot space on a spacious platform, allowing you to move freely while waiting for your target. A convenient folding footrest adds to your relaxation, ensuring you can stay comfortable for extended periods. Plus, the included backpack straps make it easy to transport this lightweight stand wherever your hunting adventures take you. Enjoy your time outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
Muddy Maxim 2-Man Ladderstand
The Muddy 2-Man Ladderstand is perfect for two hunters who want enhanced performance during their hunting trips. The 38"W x 18"T Flex-Tek bench seat and 38"W x 17"D foot platform can accommodate one or two hunters, and the padded shooting rail provides a steady shot for gun hunting. The rail can also flip up and out of the way for a clear shooting lane for bow hunting. This all-steel 16'H stand is spacious and comfortable, offering the necessary space and comfort for hardcore dawn-to-dusk hunting. The ladderstand is easy to install and comes with a support bar, 1" ratchet strap, two 1" stabilizer straps, and 2 full-body harnesses. It is perfect for use on trees with a minimum 9" diameter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it better to hunt deer on the ground or in a tree stand?
The choice between hunting deer on the ground or in a tree stand depends on various factors. Ground hunting may be suitable in wide-open timber with no cover, while a tree stand provides elevation and protection against detection. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific hunting situation.
2. How long should you sit in a tree stand while deer hunting?
For most hunting situations, a solid 3-hour sit is recommended. However, during the rut, it may be beneficial to sit for longer periods. The duration of the sit should be based on factors such as deer movement patterns, weather conditions, and personal comfort.
3. Are tree stands better for hunting?
Tree stands offer several advantages for hunting. They provide elevation, which helps conceal hunters and minimize detection. Deer typically do not look above their eye level for predators, making tree stands an effective option.
4. Can I pee out of a tree stand while hunting deer?
It is generally recommended to avoid peeing from a tree stand or near it while hunting. Peeing releases human odors that could potentially scare nearby prey. It's best to minimize any scents that may alert deer to your presence.
5. Should you sit all day while deer hunting?
Sitting all day during deer hunting can be effective, especially during the rut. However, it is important to take necessary breaks, care for personal needs, and maximize time in the woods. Balancing rest and hunting time can increase the chances of success.
6. Can deer smell you in a tree stand?
Tests have shown that deer can detect human scent regardless of how high you climb in a tree stand. When elevated, the air current may carry your scent a certain distance before descending to ground level. It's important to take precautions to minimize scent and remain undetected.
7. Do you aim high in a tree stand?
When shooting from a tree stand, it is recommended to aim slightly lower than the point of the shoulder bone, about a third up the animal's flank. This compensates for the angle and increases the likelihood of hitting the heart or lungs.
8. What are the disadvantages of hunting from an elevated stand?
Hunting from an elevated stand has a few disadvantages. It increases the risk of falling and can be challenging to carry, especially larger portable stands. Additionally, tree stands provide no protection from cold or wind and limit movement, which can lead to fatigue and an increased risk of falling.
9. Do tree stands scare deer?
When using a new tree stand for the first time, the smells and sounds of the stand can spook deer. It is generally recommended to avoid taking a new tree stand into the woods, as it may alert deer to your presence. Familiarity with the stand and minimizing disturbances can help reduce the chances of scaring deer.
10. Do deer look up at tree stands?
Deer typically have little reason to look up unless they detect movement. When hunting from a tree stand and remaining still, it provides a significant advantage. Most tree stands are set at a height of 15 to 20 feet, placing hunters well above the deer's eye level.
During our hunting tree stand research, we found 24 hunting tree stand products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 28,122 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hunting tree stands list. We found that most customers choose hunting tree stands with an average price of $271.43.
The hunting tree stands are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hunting tree stands, including BIG GAME, Sebnux, Summit Treestands, Hawk, MUDDY. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 17,823 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.