I did a search on the net and this is the only store that I
could find that sells something for hanging lights in a high tree.
You can order it online or go to one of the two stores in VA
if you live near there. I'd be surprised if one the home
improvement stores you mentioned wouldn't sell something for
this or give you a suggestion on where else to look. You
could always print from this site and take it to the store
when you ask them.
http://www.merrifieldgardencenter.com/products.php?pid=99014422&openparent=1523

Here is a link that might be useful: Decorating Pole for hanging lights in trees

If you don't want to spend money - find a long pole and hammer 2 nails at the end to form a V which works good OR I have put one nail on the end and clipped and glued a clothes pin on the end.
Good Luck and don't get on the ladder!
tammy

we use one of those telescoping tree trimming poles and just use duct tape to tape a hook made out of a hanger on the end.Also one of the telescoping poles that you change light bulbs with works.

There was an article in Southern Living a few years ago which I wished I'd saved. It talked about taping the end of the lights to a softball and tossing it over the tree. I wish I could remember all the details. It looked like a great idea, although in my case, I'd have to tap members of my family who are much better ball tossers than I am.

I'd go with Evelyn's pole. At some point, you are going to want those lights back out of those trees too.

During Christmas, you can find these poles just about anywhere such as hardware stores, plant nurseries that sell Christmas trees, WalMarts, Home Depots, Sears, etc. Just tell the clerk that you want a pole for hanging Christmas tree lights. Or lights on a house.