All Knots / Loop / Alpine Butterfly Loop
Alpine Butterfly Loop - Complete tying instructions with diagram

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Step 1 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 2

Step 2 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 3

Step 3 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 4

Step 4 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 5

Step 5 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 6

Step 6 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 7

Step 7 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Step 8

Step 8 of tying the Alpine Butterfly Loop knot - detailed visual instruction

Alpine Butterfly Loop

Secure mid-rope loop for climbing and rescue

The Alpine Butterfly Loop creates a strong, reliable loop in the middle of a rope without needing the ends. It's widely used in climbing, caving, and rescue operations due to its ability to handle load from any direction. The knot is also useful for isolating damaged rope sections or setting up anchors. Its symmetrical design distributes stress evenly and remains easy to untie after heavy loading.

Also Known As

  • Lineman's Loop
  • Butterfly Loop
  • Lineman's Rider

Advantages

Highly stable loop that withstands multi-directional loads, stronger than Bowline or Figure 8 alternatives. Remains easy to untie after heavy use and provides secure attachment in the middle of long ropes.

Disadvantages

Not recommended for dynamic situations with sudden load changes where it might slip. Requires proper setting to maintain reliability under stress.

Categories

Knot Types

Activities

Related Knots

Figure 8 Directional Loop - Learn how to tie this knot

Figure 8 Directional Loop

Secure mid-rope loop for one-directional loads