Abstract: A tree step for climbing a vertical structure such as a tree and a pole in a relatively enlightened environment and then descending the vertical structure in a relatively darkened environment. The tree step comprising an attaching structure. A surface engageable portion connected to the attaching structure. A step connected to the surface engageable portion. The step having an outer end with an upwardly facing surface. A luminescent member for radiating light upwardly from the upwardly facing surface only in a substantially vertical direction. A semi-rigid, semi-transparent cover structure protecting the luminescent member from an outside environment.