Basic Zip Line Tour Information
Published: 06/08/2009 by Zipline Directory
Zip line or Canopy tours have become popular vacation activities in the recent years. Originally, they became popular in Costa Rica, and after people experienced how much fun they were, zip line courses began to be built all over the world, including in the United States and Canada.
Zip lining originated as a way for explorers and scientists to explore jungles easily by clipping and connecting a line from tree to tree. However, some people saw it as the beginning of the next great thrill activity, and zip line and canopy tours were born.
At its very basic, a zip line course is made by constructing bases and platforms on trees and connecting zip line cable to another tree base. Typically, most zip lines use gravity to propel riders from point to point. Riders are put in a secure harness that attaches to the pulley on the cable and launch themselves off of the base platform to fly down the zip line. Zip lines can range from short distances to up to a mile long!
Although it may sound dangerous, these tours are actually very safe, if done correctly. Most tours are led by experienced guides who train participants before the tour begins. Also, most tour companies and courses must undergo rigorous yearly inspections to ensure the safety of the course. However, many companies also require riders to sign waivers that remove liability from the company should anything happen.
Age is not typically a requirement for zip lining; typically children as young as five or adults as old as 80 can participate safely. Height and weight are more important factors. Due to the harness size, riders must typically meet height and weight requirements to participate in the tour. Requirements differ for each tour provider.
Many courses differ in equipment, types of zip lines, and structure, but you can always expect to have a great time on a zip line tour.
