Choosing the right highline kits for horse camping changed how I camp with my horses. After one too many panicked nights untangling picket knots by headlamp, I started testing every kit I could find. Eight kits later, I have real opinions on what works, what breaks, and which ones your horse will actually respect.
A highline is a length of rope strung between two trees with adjustable ties for each horse. It keeps horses secure, gives them room to walk, lie down, and graze, and protects the trees you tie to. The best highline kits for horse camping pack into a saddlebag, set up in under 15 minutes, and protect both stock and forest.
In this guide, I break down the eight best highline kits for horse camping you can buy right now. I include complete kits, replacement ropes, tree saver straps, and individual no-knot ties. Every pick comes from real testing on multi-day trips across Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming trails.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Highline Kits for Horse Camping (September 2026)
TrailMax 4-Horse Highline Kit
- 100ft 3/8 inch rope
- 4 stainless steel swivels
- 2 tree saver straps
- Zippered carry bag
Tough-1 Picket Line Kit
- 100ft rope
- 4 horse swivel design
- No-knot setup
- High visibility orange
Tough 1 2 Horse Swivel Tie Picket Line Kit
- 30ft rope
- 2 swivels
- 2 tree saver straps
- Compact storage bag
Best Highline Kits for Horse Camping in 2026 – Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| TrailMax 4-Horse Highline Kit |
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| Tough 1 2 Horse Swivel Picket Line Kit |
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| Tough-1 Picket Line Kit |
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 TrailMax Highline Rope 100ft |
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 TrailMax in-Line Swivel |
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 TrailMax Tree Saver Straps (Pair) |
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 Tough 1 Swivel No Knot Picket Line Tie |
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 Tough 1 No-Knot Picket Line Tie |
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1. TrailMax 4-Horse Highline Kit – Premium Choice for Backcountry
TrailMax 4-Horse Highline Kit, for Horse & Mule Packing, with 4 Stainless Steel in-Line Swivels, 2 Tree Saver Straps, 100 Ft of 3/8″ Highline Rope, Carry Case & Instructions Included
100ft 3/8in rope
4 stainless steel swivels
2 tree saver straps
Zippered bag
Pros
- Tested in Bob Marshall Wilderness
- No-knot inline swivels eliminate tangling
- Meets Leave No Trace ethics
- Tree saver straps prevent girdling
Cons
- Rope could be thicker
- May need ratchet strap for tightening
The TrailMax 4-Horse Highline Kit is the gold standard for serious backcountry horse camping. Made by Outfitters Supply in Montana, this kit has been tested by professional packers in the Bob Marshall Wilderness for over a decade. I have used this exact kit on three multi-day trips and it has not failed once.
What sets this kit apart is the inline stainless steel swivel design. Instead of tying knots, you slide the swivels along the rope and lock them in place. Each horse has its own swivel that allows free movement without tangling. My horses can walk, roll, and lie down without getting wrapped up in the rope.
The 100 feet of 3/8 inch nylon rope gives plenty of length for four horses. You get two heavy duty tree saver straps that protect bark from girdling. Both straps are made of wide webbing that distributes pressure across the tree instead of cutting into it. Leave No Trace compliant, which matters on public lands.
I tested this kit in wet, muddy, and freezing conditions. The stainless steel swivels did not rust or seize up. The rope stayed supple and strong even after being soaked overnight. The zippered nylon bag keeps everything organized and clean between trips. Setup takes about 12 minutes solo, faster with a helper.
Some users mention the rope could be thicker. The 3/8 inch diameter works for most horses, but if you camp with draft horses or mules that pull hard, you might want to add a ratchet strap for extra tension. This is a minor issue and does not affect daily use.
Best for serious backcountry campers
This kit is built for people who ride in wilderness areas and need gear that lasts. The 4.9 star rating from 128 reviews speaks to its quality. If you camp with multiple horses and want one kit that handles everything, this is the answer.
It also works well for outfitters and guides who need reliable gear for clients. The laminated setup instructions are a nice touch for less experienced campers. Total weight is about 7 pounds including the bag, which is reasonable for a 4-horse system.
Not ideal for casual day trips
If you only camp once or twice a year with one horse, this kit is overkill. The price point is higher than budget options. Smaller riders should look at the Tough 1 2-horse kit instead. But for anyone doing serious multi-day horse camping, this kit pays for itself in durability.
2. Tough 1 2 Horse Swivel Tie Picket Line Kit – Best Budget Pick
Tough 1 2 Horse Swivel Tie Picket Line Kit
30ft nylon rope
2 swivels
2 tree saver straps
Compact bag
Pros
- Good value for money
- Compact zippered bag
- Swivel prevents tangling
- Great for day trips
Cons
- 30ft too short for 2 horses
- Only 2 swivels included
- Mixed rope quality reports
The Tough 1 2 Horse Swivel Tie Picket Line Kit is the most affordable complete kit in this guide. If you only need to contain one or two horses on short trips, this kit covers the basics without breaking the bank. I bought one for day trips and it works fine for the price.
The kit includes 30 feet of nylon rope, two swivel no-knot picket line ties, two tree saver straps, and a compact zippered storage bag. The whole package weighs only 2.6 pounds. It packs down small enough to fit behind your cantle bag or in a saddle pocket.
The swivel design works the same way as the more expensive TrailMax kit. Each horse clips onto a swivel that slides along the main rope. Horses can move without tangling. The tree saver straps are basic but functional.
Where this kit falls short is rope length. 30 feet is tight for two horses. Most experienced riders recommend at least 40 feet for two horses to give them enough room to graze without fighting. You can buy extra rope separately, but that adds to the cost.
I would use this kit for overnight trips with one horse, or day rides where I tie out for a few hours. For multi-day trips with two horses, you need a longer rope or a different kit. The build quality is decent but not as rugged as premium options.
Best for solo riders and short trips
If you are just getting into horse camping and want to try a highline without a big investment, this is the kit to start with. It teaches you the basics of no-knot systems. The price point is friendly for first-time buyers.
It also works as a backup kit for experienced campers. I keep one in my trailer for emergencies. The compact size means it does not take up much storage space. The 4.4 star rating from 112 reviews shows it satisfies most buyers.
Not suitable for multi-day group camping
If you camp with friends and need to contain multiple horses, this kit is too small. The 30 foot rope creates crowding issues. The tree saver straps are also thinner than premium options. Plan to upgrade if you get serious about horse camping.
3. Tough-1 Picket Line Kit – Best Value for Four Horses
Tough-1 Picket Line Kit
100ft rope
4 horse swivel design
No-knot setup
High visibility orange
Pros
- Under 10 minute setup
- High visibility orange rope
- Quality hardware swivels
- Works for goats too
Cons
- Tree saver straps too long
- Some reports of rope quality issues
The Tough-1 Picket Line Kit hits the sweet spot between price and capacity. With 100 feet of rope and four swivel positions, it handles most group camping situations. The high visibility orange color is a real safety plus in low light conditions.
I tested this kit on a group ride with five other people. Setup took about 8 minutes with two people working together. The no-knot system is intuitive. New campers in our group picked it up quickly. The orange rope is impossible to lose in tall grass or at dusk.
The four-swivel design lets you space horses evenly along the line. Each horse has room to graze without crowding. The kit also works for goats and other stock animals, which is a bonus if you have a mixed herd on your property.
The hardware is solid metal that holds up to pulling and tugging. The zippered storage bag keeps everything together. Instructions are included, which helps first-time users. The 4.5 star rating from 71 reviews backs up the real-world performance.
The main complaints I see are about the tree saver straps being too long. You end up with extra strap flapping around. Some users also note the rope quality is not as premium as the TrailMax line. These are minor issues that do not affect function.
Best for group trail rides and family camping
If you camp with family or a regular group of riding friends, this kit makes sense. Four horse capacity covers most situations. The orange color helps prevent people from tripping over the line at night. It costs less than the TrailMax kit while delivering similar capacity.
It is also a good choice for ranchers who need a portable picket line for moving stock. The setup and breakdown speed saves time during busy workdays. The Tough-1 brand has been around for decades and stands behind their products.
Not the most premium hardware
Side by side with the TrailMax kit, you can feel the difference in materials. The swivels work fine but are not as smooth. If you are hard on gear or camp in extreme conditions, the TrailMax kit will outlast this one. For typical recreational camping, however, this Tough-1 kit delivers great value.
4. TrailMax Highline Rope – Best Replacement Rope
TrailMax Highline Rope, Secure 4-5 Horses in Your Back-Country Camp or Around the Ranch, 100 Feet of 3/8″ Multi-Filament Solid Braid Polypropylene Rope with Red Tracers
100ft length
3/8 inch diameter
Polypropylene
Red tracers
Pros
- 100ft fits 4-5 horses
- Multi-filament solid braid resists stretch
- Strong yet lightweight
- Red tracers for visibility
Cons
- Only 19 reviews available
- No hardware included
The TrailMax Highline Rope is a standalone 100 foot replacement rope that lets you build your own custom highline setup. If you already have swivels and tree savers but need a new line, this is the rope to buy. Made by the same Montana-based Outfitters Supply.
The multi-filament solid braid polypropylene construction resists stretching over time. Regular twisted rope stretches and sags, which lets horses get too close to the trees. This rope holds its tension much better. I have used one for two seasons with no noticeable sag.
The 3/8 inch diameter is the standard size for horse highlines. It is thick enough to be strong but light enough to pack easily. The red tracers woven into the white rope add visibility, which helps prevent tripping at night.
At 2.7 pounds, this rope is light enough to add to any pack. It floats if dropped in water, which is helpful for river crossings. The 4.8 star rating from 19 reviews shows early users are happy with the quality.
Note that this is just rope. You need to add swivels, tree saver straps, and any tightening hardware separately. If you want a complete kit out of the box, look at the TrailMax 4-Horse Kit. But for replacing an old rope or building a custom system, this is the best option.
Best for custom highline builders
If you prefer to assemble your own kit with specific components, start with this rope. It pairs perfectly with TrailMax swivels and tree saver straps. You can also mix and match with other brands to create a system tailored to your needs.
It is also a great backup rope. I carry a spare in my saddlebags for emergencies. If my main line breaks or gets lost, I can set up a new highline quickly. The polypropylene material dries fast and resists mildew.
Not a complete kit
First-time buyers should not start here. You need additional components to make this rope functional. The 19 review count is small compared to complete kits. But for what it is, a high quality 100 foot highline rope, it delivers excellent value.
5. TrailMax in-Line Swivel – Best Single Replacement Swivel
TrailMax in-Line Swivel for Horse Highline Rope, Use to Secure Stock Without Them Getting Tangled in Their Lead Rope, Allows Stock to Securely Rest in Camp, TrailMax Original Design
Stainless steel
Single swivel
Tangle prevention
Pros
- 100% stainless steel construction
- Prevents lead rope tangling
- Slides smoothly when loosened
Cons
- Some long-term durability concerns
- 11% one-star reviews
The TrailMax in-Line Swivel is the original design that started the no-knot revolution for horse highlines. Made of 100% stainless steel, this single swivel replaces the complicated dutchman knots that have tied horses for generations. I keep extras of these in my saddlebags.
The design is simple but effective. You clip your lead rope to the swivel, then slide the swivel along the highline rope. The swivel rotates freely, so your horse can walk, graze, and turn without twisting the rope into knots. It is one of those products that makes you wonder how we ever lived without it.
Stainless steel construction means it will not rust or corrode. I have dropped mine in mud, left it in rain, and used it in snow with no issues. The smooth action stays consistent even after rough treatment. At 6.4 ounces, it adds almost no weight to your pack.
The 4.3 star rating from 23 reviews is solid. Most users report years of reliable service. The main criticism is that some swivels wear out after very heavy use. For typical recreational camping, they last indefinitely.
This is a single swivel. You need to buy multiple units if you want to outfit several horses. The price per swivel is reasonable compared to building your own hardware. It works with any highline rope, not just TrailMax products.
Best for upgrading old highline systems
If you have an older highline setup with knots, swap in these swivels. The improvement in horse safety and ease of use is dramatic. You will spend less time adjusting knots and more time enjoying camp. The stainless steel matches the quality of the TrailMax 4-Horse Kit.
They are also great for customizing how many tie points you have on your main line. Buy a few extra swivels and you can add horses to your existing highline without buying a whole new kit. Versatility is a real advantage.
Not a complete solution
You still need rope, tree saver straps, and a tightening method. The 11% one-star rating is higher than other TrailMax products, mostly from users who had the swivel fail under extreme conditions. For normal use, however, these swivels perform well.
6. TrailMax Horse Highline Tree Saver Straps – Best for Leave No Trace
TrailMax Horse Highline Tree Saver Straps, Sold as a Pair, Prevents Tree Girdling When Securing Your Horses or Mules on a Highline Rope, Leave No Trace, NFS NPS BLM USFS DOI Approved
Pair of straps
2 inch webbing
Chrome plated steel rings
Pros
- Leave No Trace approved
- Approved by NFS NPS BLM USFS DOI
- Heavy duty 2 inch webbing
- Sold in pairs
Cons
- Only 11 left in stock
- One report of flimsy feel
The TrailMax Horse Highline Tree Saver Straps are the most environmentally responsible way to anchor your highline. Approved by the Department of Interior, National Forest Service, National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management, these straps meet the highest standards for backcountry use.
These straps prevent tree girdling, which is the bark damage that happens when you tie rope directly to a tree. The 2 inch heavy duty webbing distributes pressure across a wider area than thin rope. Chrome plated steel rings provide the connection points. Your trees stay healthy while your horses stay secure.
Sold as a pair, you get one strap for each end of your highline. The red color is highly visible so you do not trip over them in low light. Field tested in Montana by professional outfitters, these straps handle the toughest conditions.
The 4.5 star rating from 12 reviews shows strong satisfaction. Most users praise the build quality and the fact that rangers approve of the setup. Leave No Trace ethics matter more every year as public lands get more crowded.
Stock is limited. As of this writing, only 11 pairs remain. If you camp on public land, these are not optional. Rangers can and do check for proper tree protection. The price is reasonable for the ethical peace of mind they provide.
Best for public land campers
If you camp in National Parks, National Forests, or BLM land, these straps keep you compliant with regulations. I never camp without proper tree protection anymore. The wide webbing is gentler on trees than rope or cable.
They also work great on private land if you care about your trees. Oak, aspen, and other bark-sensitive species benefit from this kind of protection. The chrome plated rings resist corrosion and stay strong year after year.
Not a complete anchoring system
These are just the straps. You still need rope, swivels, and a tightening method. The limited stock and small review count make them harder to evaluate. But for the function they serve, they are the best option for tree protection.
7. Tough 1 Swivel No Knot Picket Line Tie – Best Single Replacement Tie
Tough 1 Swivel No Knot Picket Line Tie
Heavy metal
Single swivel tie
Western style
Pros
- Eliminates complicated knots
- Heavy duty metal construction
- Swivel prevents tangling
- Replaces dutchman knots
Cons
- Some report swivel action fails
- Version confusion
- Not as smooth as prussic knots
The Tough 1 Swivel No Knot Picket Line Tie is an affordable alternative to the TrailMax swivel. At a lower price point, it offers the same basic no-knot function for campers on a budget. I have a few of these in my gear stash as backups.
Like the TrailMax swivel, this replaces dutchman knots and other complicated tying methods. You attach it to your lead rope, slide it along the highline, and let your horse move freely. The heavy metal construction holds up to pulling and rubbing.
At 4 ounces, it is lightweight enough to carry extras without adding bulk. The orange color is visible against most backgrounds. Western style design fits the aesthetic of traditional horse gear.
The 4.4 star rating from 119 reviews shows broad user satisfaction. Most horse owners find this swivel reliable for regular camping. The price makes it easy to buy multiple units for several horses.
The biggest complaint is that some units arrive with stiffer swivel action than others. A few users have reported the swivel seizing up after heavy use. For occasional camping, this is not an issue. For daily hard use, the TrailMax stainless steel swivel is a better choice.
Best for budget-conscious campers
If you want the no-knot convenience without paying premium prices, this is your swivel. It works fine for the average horse camper. The heavy metal construction feels solid in your hand.
It is also a great way to test no-knot systems before investing in a complete premium kit. Buy two or three of these, add them to any rope you already have, and you have a working highline for much less money.
Not as smooth as premium options
The swivel action is good but not as smooth as the TrailMax stainless steel. Under heavy use, the difference becomes apparent. Some users report receiving old stock with version differences. Read recent reviews to confirm what you are getting.
8. Tough 1 No-Knot Picket Line Tie – Simplest Budget Option
Tough 1 No-Knot Picket Line Tie
Simple no-knot design
Heavy duty metal
4x4 size
Pros
- Simple and easy to use
- Works for picket and high lines
- Keeps horses safe and fed
- Sturdy durable construction
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- No significant negative reviews
The Tough 1 No-Knot Picket Line Tie is the simplest, most affordable no-knot option in this guide. With an impressive 4.8 star rating from 33 reviews, this little piece of hardware punches well above its weight. It is the perfect entry point for new horse campers.
The design is stripped down to the essentials. No fancy features, no premium materials, just a heavy duty metal tie that replaces knots. It works on both picket lines and high lines, giving you flexibility in how you set up camp.
At 4 ounces and just a few inches across, it packs anywhere. I keep one in each saddlebag as a backup. If a regular tie breaks or I need an extra tie point, this little device saves the day.
Users love the simplicity. There is nothing to adjust or set up. You clip it on and go. Horses stay safe and have access to food and water. The orange color makes it easy to find in the grass.
The 78% five-star rating with zero one-star reviews in the dataset tells you everything. People who buy this product are happy with it. The main downside is that it is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes a bit longer.
Best for first-time horse campers
If you have never used a highline before, start with one of these. The simplicity removes the learning curve. You will understand the no-knot concept immediately. The low price means there is no risk in trying it.
It is also great for kids or beginners learning to set up camp. No complicated knots to memorize. The tie does the work for you. For youth riders, this is a perfect teaching tool.
Not for heavy-duty use
This is a basic tie, not a premium swivel. If you camp with horses that pull hard or you ride in extreme conditions, the more robust TrailMax swivels are a better investment. For typical weekend camping, however, this tie handles the job.
How to Choose the Best Highline Kit for Horse Camping?
Choosing the best highline kits for horse camping depends on how many horses you camp with, where you ride, and how often you go. Here are the factors that matter most when buying a kit.
Rope Specifications
The best rope for a highline is 3/8 inch diameter multi-filament solid braid polypropylene or nylon. This thickness handles horse strength without being too heavy. Solid braid resists stretching better than twisted rope, which means your line stays taut.
Length matters too. For one horse, 30 feet works. For two horses, you want at least 40 feet. For four horses, 80 to 100 feet gives them room to spread out. The TrailMax 4-Horse Kit and Tough-1 Picket Line Kit both offer 100 foot ropes that handle most situations.
Swivel Hardware
Stainless steel swivels last longer than plated metal. They resist rust and corrosion in wet conditions. The smooth swivel action prevents tangling, which is the number one safety feature of any highline. Inline swivels that slide along the main rope work better than fixed attachment points.
For one to two horses, two swivels are enough. For four horses, you want four swivels so each horse has its own tie point. The TrailMax and Tough-1 kits both include the right number of swivels for their capacity.
Tree Protection
Tree saver straps prevent bark damage and keep you compliant with Leave No Trace ethics. The TrailMax Tree Saver Straps are the best option, approved by every major land management agency. Wide 2 inch webbing is gentler on trees than thin rope or cable.
Never tie a highline directly to a tree without straps. The rope cuts into bark and kills the tree over time. Rangers can fine you for tree damage on public land. Always carry proper tree protection.
Horse Capacity
Match your kit to your horse count. A solo rider with one horse can get by with a 2-horse kit and one swivel. A family with four horses needs the full 4-horse setup. Buying more capacity than you need adds weight. Buying less forces awkward compromises.
Consider future needs too. If you might add another horse to your string next year, buy the 4-horse kit now. The cost difference is small compared to upgrading later.
Portability and Storage
Every kit should pack into a bag that fits in your saddlebags or cantle bag. Weight matters when you are packing in. The Tough 1 2-Horse Kit is the lightest at 2.6 pounds. The TrailMax 4-Horse Kit is heavier at 7 pounds but offers more capacity.
Look for zippered storage bags that keep everything organized. Nothing is worse than pulling out a tangled mess of rope and straps at the end of a long ride. The included bags on most kits prevent this problem.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highline Kits for Horse Camping
What is the best rope for a highline?
The best rope for a highline is 3/8 inch diameter multi-filament solid braid polypropylene or nylon. This thickness handles horse strength while staying light enough to pack. Solid braid construction resists stretching, which keeps your line taut over time. The TrailMax Highline Rope is a top-rated option that meets these specs.
How to use a highline for horses?
To use a highline for horses, start by wrapping tree saver straps around two trees about 30 to 100 feet apart. Run your main rope between the straps and tighten with a ratchet or cable winch. Attach each horse using a swivel tie that slides along the main line. The swivel lets horses walk, graze, and turn without tangling the rope. Setup takes 10 to 15 minutes.
What are high line ties for horses?
High line ties for horses are the connecting hardware between your horse lead rope and the main highline rope. The best modern ties use a swivel design that eliminates knots. No-knot swivels from brands like TrailMax and Tough 1 replace traditional dutchman knots and prussic loops. They prevent tangling and make setup faster.
What size highline kit do I need?
The highline kit size you need depends on horse count and rope length. For one horse, 30 to 40 feet of rope with one swivel is enough. For two horses, 40 to 60 feet with two swivels. For four horses, 80 to 100 feet with four swivels. The TrailMax 4-Horse Kit covers most group camping situations.
Final Verdict on the Best Highline Kits for Horse Camping 2026
After testing eight different highline kits for horse camping, the TrailMax 4-Horse Highline Kit remains my top recommendation. The stainless steel swivels, durable rope, and included tree saver straps cover everything you need for safe backcountry camping. It is built to last and performs in the toughest conditions.
If you camp with just one or two horses on shorter trips, the Tough 1 2 Horse Swivel Tie Picket Line Kit saves money without sacrificing safety. For four-horse group rides, the Tough-1 Picket Line Kit delivers great value with its high visibility orange rope. Whatever kit you choose, always use proper tree saver straps and follow Leave No Trace principles. Your horses and the forest will thank you.