RE: Alternatives to tree steps.
Tree rat,
I have been using 8" lag bolts with a 3/4" head for >15 years. I probably have over a 100 of them in the woods permanent. I do exactly what you are wanting to do with these things. I carry 4 screw in steps to get me to them. I paint them black with flat Rust Oleum paint before putting them in. They are almost invisible!