I also did this same task a couple days ago. I set up a two-man ladder for me & my son to hunt. I had a buddy out there helping me. I have no idea how I would've set it up without him. Standing that sucker up was a doozy! Once, it was against the tree we fastened the stabilizer bar about 7ft up. That really helped hold it steady while I racheted the upper sections. Good Luck!