ClutchCalcs

Tree Work

Escape Route Calculator

Standard arborist escape paths run 45° behind the felling cut, away from the fall direction. Enter tree height and lean to see how far away you need to be when the tree starts moving.

Escape path distance (ft)

Min ground clearance (ft)
Time to fall (sec, est)
Notes

FAQ

Why 45° behind the cut? +
The tree falls forward; the stump can kick back; brush whips sideways. A 45° escape gets you out of all three danger zones with one short walk.
How fast does a tree fall? +
A 70-ft tree takes about 2 seconds from "moving" to "on the ground." You will not run — walk fast on a pre-cleared path.
What if I cannot clear the brush? +
Stop the cut. Clear the path first. Most arborist fatalities involve fallers tripping on debris in their escape path.