I use a window wedge. Its made of plastic and used to pry the tops of door jams to stick a jimmy in for unlocking. They come in several different sized and the plastic is really easy on the paint. I drilled a hole in it for a rope and slide it in the space between the door and the qtr pan. The rope is so I can reach and yank it out without getting my have in there. Seattle has some hills too.
Cheers.

Seattle WA... (Everett)
1990 Montero LS OME complete, 2"BL,spray-paint.
1990 Montero LS in the 1st stage of rebuild.
2009 Pilot, Bone stock.
"Let me put on my slightly larger glasses".