Abstract: A device is disclosed for the insertion and removal of rod-type tree steps having vertically spaced apart first and second horizontally disposed sections extending oppositely from a vertically disposed central section. The device has a body portion including a handle and an opening for removably receiving therein the second section of the tree step. A lock member is selectively positionable with respect to the body portion so as to intrude into the opening therein and restrain unwanted movement of the second section of the tree step. A guide slot provided adjacent the upper and of and opening away from the body portion removably captures the central section of the tree step.