Abstract: A ladder assembly for use with a tree or other vertical support includes a first tube and a second tube that is nestable within the first tube. The second tube includes at least one movable step that is movable to one end of the tube to enable almost full insertion of the second tube into the first tube for compact storage and, when the tubes are separated from one another, the movable step is movable to the other end of the tube to provide an ideal step position for a climber. The ladder assembly achieves the same functionality as a telescoping pole but with fewer tube sections because the tubes are separable.