Shoulder Zip

Shoulder Zip

Whistler Zip Trek and Sky Lining Adventures

There is no better way to marvel at Whistler’s splendid vista views than flying through the air at speeds reaching up to 100mph (160km/h). If you’re searching for a bold, one-of-a-kind Whistler experience, Ziptrek Ecotours and Skyline Eco-Adventures presents the perfect opportunity! Take a hand at whizzing through the air in just a harness attached to a cable line, the adrenaline rush and incredible panoramic views are well worth the venture. Read more to learn about two of Whistler’s high flying zip lining companies and find out some important facts you should consider before trying the zip-lines out yourself.

Ziptrek Ecotours

Founder of the first zipline tours in North America, Ziptrek Ecotours offers an educational and fun zip lining experience. With an award-winning ecological program and the highest, longest and most numerous ziplines around. Ziptrek Ecotours are a definite must-see. Ziptrek’s tour area includes 33 acres of diverse terrain; mainly in the rainforests that separate Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain and over the Fitzsimmons Creek. Not too far away from Whistler Village, the location is easily accessible and convenient for guests new to Whistler. Don’t worry about the time of year you visit, Ziptrek Ecotours runs all year in all weather conditions!

Ziptrek Ecotours uses a harness with a five point design that wraps around your waist, your legs and over your shoulders, it also includes a chest strap. The harnesses are not only comfortable and lightweight, they are safe, reliable and offer guests more flexibility while riding the ziplines. If you’re interested in Ziptrek Ecotours, they have two amazing tours:

• Ziptrek Bear Tour --This exhilarating venture includes five outstanding ziplines linked by a sequence of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails. Extraordinary views of the Fitzsimmons Creek complete the tour. This is an excellent starter tour for families and zip lining beginners.
• Ziptrek Eagle Tour -- This is the latest addition to Ziptrek tours and is a more daring venture. The expedition includes five new ziplines linked by tree-top suspension bridges, a spine-chilling 20 story drop and heated platforms for guests to take in the Whistler panorama.

Skyline Eco-Adventures

Situated on Cougar Mountain in Whistler, Skyline Eco-Adventures includes a cable line excursion through old-growth forests. Tours consist of five dual skylines with the longest ride exceeding 1500 feet long, 200 feet above the ground and a 200ft vertical drop. Just like Ziptrek Ecotours, the Skyline ziplines are joined through a number of suspension bridges. Skyline is open all year long in all weather conditions and no experience is necessary to take on the ziplines.

Skyline and Ziptrek not only differ in the type of tours they offer but also in the type of harness and cable they use on the excursions. Skyline operates a dual cable construction, this allows two people to ride at the same time and allows for higher passenger capacities. Skyline also includes a self-braking system through the utilization of rotary magnetic brakes. This decreases the amount of operator intervention of the zip lines and allows Skyline to be open all year round.

What to wear!

Thinking about giving zip lining a shot? Since zip lining is open in all weather conditions, clothing is an important factor to consider before you head out. Here are some helpful hints on what to wear on your zip lining expedition.

During the summer, shorts and t-shirts are the best attire, bring along a light jacket for afternoons when temperatures are cooler. Hiking and closed toed footwear is very important; sandals and flip-flops are not permitted. Ziptrek and Skyline both provide some rain gear for the wetter outings.

In the winter, pack on the layers! Warm outdoor attire similar to what you would wear on a ski or snowboard trip is recommended. Winter gear such as gloves and boots are also provided by Ziptrek and Skyline.

About the Author

Devon O' Malley is a staff writer for Allura Direct, a
vacation rentals website offering powerful search and instant booking features for owners and guests alike. Experience the thrill and exhilaration of zip lining, book your Whistler vacation rentals today and take the plunge!

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