Properly named, these salamanders are expert climbers and can often be found up in the canopies of the trees. Their climbing ability is enhanced by their elongated digits and their prehensile tail. They are most active during and shortly after rains. They occur in the coastal forest areas from northern California to southern California. In addition, they can be found on some of the islands off the coast of California.

The Arboreal Salamander is a medium sized salamander attaining total lengths from 4-7 inches. They are generally a shade of brown above with a white or cream belly. Light yellow or white spotting is often seen covering their upper body. The spotting varies across their range however with some populations having little to no spotting.