Abstract: A climbing tree stand for hunting or other outdoor activity includes a platform and tubular frame members connected thereto and at least partly supporting the platform. A yoke is connected to the platform for engaging the tree and a cable couples the platform to the tree with the ends of the cable carrying a series of nuts securely mounted thereadjacent. Cleats are positioned at the tubular frame members for releasably securing the cable ends using the nuts on the cables. The cleats include keyhole-shaped openings and moveable covers for covering the openings. The yoke includes two sections which are oriented at an acute angle with respect to each other to partly straddle the tree.