Abstract: A pack tree for distributing the weight of a load between the front and rear haunches of a pack animal. A lightweight, partially deformable carrier frame is mounted in pivotal spaced relation upon a pair of lightweight, partially deformable sideplates to provide a versatile pack tree useable with any of a wide range of pack animals and having a multiplicity of tie-down points. Retaining rings disposed upon the carrier frame provide reinforcement for the frame thereby limiting its deformation under loading.