newsgathers

Noah Kane, at 26 years old, found his passion for climbing rooted not in the familiar terrains of rock faces or indoor gyms, but amidst the lush canopy of Costa Rica. After an academic detour from film school, a 19-year-old Kane returned to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a place he knew from his childhood. Here, he reconnected with friends, Rafi Vargas and Izzy Moore, who introduced him to climbing. Kane recalls this period as the true genesis of his climbing journey, noting that at the time, his friends were largely unaware of the broader world of rock climbing. This shared exploration soon evolved into a groundbreaking method of ascending Strangler fig trees, culminating in a documentary that has captivated a wide audience and shed light on this specialized, yet remarkably different, form of climbing.

The trees central to Kane's climbing exploits are not just any arboreal specimens. They are Strangler figs, a species with a peculiar life cycle. These trees originate high in the rainforest canopy, often from seeds dispersed by animals. They begin as epiphytes, thriving on other plants without being parasitic, drawing sustenance from the moisture-rich clouds and arboreal soil. As they mature, their roots descend to the ground, anchoring into the main soil and accessing vital nutrients. This growth pattern leads to the formation of a distinctive trunk that encases the host tree. The name \"Strangler fig\" comes from the popular belief that they suffocate their hosts, though evidence suggests they primarily use the host for support, rather than actively causing its demise.

For Kane and his team, these Strangler fig trees present an ideal climbing medium. They primarily undertake their climbs on private property during the dry season, from January to May, when the cloud forest's constant mist creates a uniquely cool and humid environment. A key aspect of their methodology is climbing barefoot, a practice driven by a strong ethical commitment to minimize any potential damage to the trees. While some might consider alternative footwear, Kane highlights that prolonged barefoot climbing naturally develops tough calluses, enhancing their connection with the tree's surface. The Strangler fig's structure, characterized by a robust lattice of intertwined vines rather than a solid trunk, provides exceptionally strong holds, capable of supporting significant weight even with thinner sections. This natural strength allows for secure protection points, where slings or knotted ropes can be utilized as anchors, eschewing the need for artificial hardware.

Kane describes the experience as a hybrid, blending the natural protection ethos of traditional rock climbing with the perceived safety and accessibility of sport climbing. The dense wood of these trees significantly reduces the risk of falls, making the experience confidence-inspiring, even during substantial drops. Some of the Strangler figs present unique challenges, extending beyond vertical and featuring considerable overhangs due to their distinctive growth patterns. Kane acknowledges the difficulty in grading these climbs by conventional rock climbing standards but offers a comparative sense of their challenge. Among his most memorable experiences is scaling the 'porcupine tree,' famed for its iconic seven-meter layback. This demanding section requires considerable strength, pulling on tufa-like structures and pushing against vertical bark, epitomizing the intense and physical nature of this tree climbing discipline. While Strangler figs are found globally, Kane focuses on Costa Rica, mindful of the rainforest's sensitivity. He has hosted small tree-climbing festivals and collaborates with professional climbers, always open to sharing this extraordinary adventure with interested individuals.

This innovative form of climbing offers a compelling alternative to traditional methods, deeply connecting participants with the natural world. It underscores a profound respect for the environment, showcasing how human ingenuity and a love for adventure can merge with ecological consciousness. The Strangler figs, with their unique architecture and growth, provide a challenging yet rewarding landscape for climbers who seek an authentic and immersive experience within Costa Rica's vibrant cloud forest.