Systems and methods for the creation of trees for representing hierarchical data structures are provided. Trees are created on a server, with the tree having nodes that are associated with paths on a server. Each node is associated with a resource locator indicating data that can be accessed through the tree. A tree manager module generates a state of a tree that is then rendered on a client browser for access by a user. Embodiments of the present invention generate a rendering module that is transmitted to a client for use. The rendering module receives tree information from the server, from which it generates javascript that renders the tree on a client web browser. The present invention is advantageous as it allows customizable client-based rendering of tree structures while utilizing well-known mechanisms for creating trees.