RE: Alternatives to tree steps.
Tree Rat,
I use the lag bolt system.In the post season when I do the bulk of my scouting I take along my pack with a 14.4v cordless drill,extra battery pack,and a bunch of 7" grade 8 lag bolts that I have painted black and brown and a small folding saw.It also nice to carry a small note pad to log down not just locations, but huntable wind directions.These camo bolts are harder to see than a person thinks,but if you want you can easily pull the bottom few steps.