It’s the stuff of dreams: You’re flying through the air, unencumbered by any enclosure, watching the treetops and meadows go by directly underneath you. So, this is how it feels to be a bird! Is this even real?
It is real! Ziplining is the ultimate outdoor adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Much more than simply giving you an adrenaline-pumping ride, scenic zipline tours let you see pristine natural habitats in a whole new way.
Here, we’ll take a look at some of the most amazing zipline experiences — and we’ll even offer you a sneak peek at the soon-to-be longest zipline in the USA, coming soon at WildSide.
Top Zipline Adventures Across the U.S.
Each course has wildly different things to offer, so it’s tough to pick a clear winner. That said, we can use criteria like length, views, and the proximity of other activities like offroad UTV tours to see which spots truly stand out.
1. WildSide MegaZip (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee)
Home to the longest single-line zipline in the United States, WildSide MegaZip offers an unparalleled thrill with a 1.1-mile ride reaching speeds of up to 55 mph. Unlike multi-line courses, this single, continuous ride delivers an uninterrupted rush of adrenaline and breathtaking views. But the excitement doesn’t stop there—WildSide also features UTV riding, mountain biking, and other outdoor adventures, making it the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers looking for an action-packed experience all in one place.
WildSide's Zipline Stats | |
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Cable Length | 5,771 feet |
Total Vertical Drop | 1,092 feet |
Tower Elevation | 2,472 feet |
Bottom Tower Elevation | 1,377 feet |
Percent Grade | 19.5% |
Speeds | 55+ mph |
2. Koloa Zipline (Kauai, Hawaii)
Looking for a zipline experience that lets you soar like a superhero? At Koloa Zipline, you can try thrilling Superman-style and upside-down rides while flying through lush Hawaiian rainforest scenery. This adventure includes plenty of rest stops with snacks and water, making it a perfect way to experience Kauai’s natural beauty while getting your adrenaline fix.
Koloa Zipline Stats | |
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Longest Single Zipline | 2,640 feet |
3. Soaring Tree Top Adventures (Durango, Colorado)
Accessible only by a historic steam train, this course is nestled within an alpine terrain untouched by the public. Race your friends on side-by-side cables that shoot over the old growth ponderosa and aspen forests and cross the Animas River not just once but ten times! It’s currently the longest zipline course by the number of lines (27 total), complete with a gourmet lunch you can enjoy amid the treetops.
Soaring Tree Zipline Stats | |
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Length of Ziplines | Ranges from 56 feet to 1,400 feet |
4. Icy Strait Point (Hoonah, Alaska)
If you’ve already zipped through the tropics and over colorful deciduous forests in autumn, it might be time to try the tundra. Icy Strait Point boasts six side-by-side ziplines, each over 1,300 feet, with spectacular views of the tundra and the ocean. For cruise passengers and nature enthusiasts, it’s one of the very best ways to experience Alaska.
Icy Strait Zipline Stats | |
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Length of Ziplines | 5,495 feet |
Percent Grade | 25% |
5. Outfitters Kauai (Kauai, Hawaii)
Home to the longest single zipline in Kauai (4,000 feet), this course offers unmatched views of the gorgeous landscape surrounding it. Even better, the friendly and engaging staff know how to make the experience extra unforgettable.
Outfitters Zipline Stats | |
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Length of Ziplines | 4,000 feet |
Speeds | 50+ mph |
What Makes a Zipline Adventure Unforgettable?
Ziplining has evolved into one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the world’s most stunning landscapes. Whether soaring over lush rainforests, rugged mountains, or dramatic coastlines, zipline courses have transformed into must-try adventures for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Ziplines offer a unique blend of adrenaline and awe-inspiring views, making them a top choice for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Here are a few things that some of the top ziplines in North America have to offer:
- Great lengths and serious speeds. Longer courses give you a chance to see more of the terrain, while faster speeds amplify the thrill (we’re talking 50+ miles an hour). If you’re someone who never wants to wake up from a flying dream, an ultra-long course (like the one WildSide is building) is definitely for you.
- Scenic views that you won’t get any other way. Sure, you can stand on a mountaintop and get a 360-degree static view, but then you’ve got to trundle back down. Or wait a minute … maybe you can zip down and get a bird’s-eye view of the forest you ventured through.
- All-inclusive experiences for the whole family. Many parks offer snacks, rest stops, and opportunities to combine their family-friendly zipline with other enjoyable activities.
Why WildSide Will Redefine Ziplining
WildSide’s new course, opening in Spring 2025, will have a record-breaking length that lets you experience the mountainous landscape of Pigeon Forge like never before. Swing by after your trip to Dollywood for an all-in-one adventure day where you can go biking along the trails, cruising off-road in a UTV, and sailing through the air like a bird (less pigeon and more hawk).
Whether you’re looking for year-round zipline tours or simply the most thrilling zipline adventures for a sunny summer day, Pigeon Forge is a great place to plan your next getaway. High-demand courses sell out quickly, so be sure to plan ahead.
We’re just as wild with anticipation about the soon-to-be longest zipline course as you are. Once Spring 2025 rolls around, we look forward to seeing you in the air!