Try this?

https://www.amazon.com/Useful-UH-TL211-Aluminum-Telescoping-Extension/dp/B01GULGMHW/ref=lp_553480_1_14?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1472504783&sr=1-14

It is the shortest one I've found. It has almost the same dimensions of a backpack frame. In fact, I'm wondering if you could hook up straps and a rucksack and use it AS a backpack frame. Go ahead invent the Forager's Ladder, my gift.